By Staff Writer | August 2, 2025
SAN ANTONIO — The world of Tejano and conjunto music is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved pioneers. Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez, whose masterful accordion playing helped define the Tex-Mex sound and carry it to global audiences, has died at the age of 86.
Jiménez’s family announced his passing August 1, 2025 on his official Facebook page, sharing that he was surrounded by loved ones. No cause of death was provided, and the family has requested privacy during this time of grief.
Born March 11, 1939 into a musical dynasty in San Antonio, Flaco inherited his love for the accordion from his father, Santiago Jiménez Sr., a foundational figure in conjunto music. Drawing inspiration from German and Czech polkas that permeated South Texas, Flaco developed a style that was both deeply traditional and universally joyful — a sound he often described as alegre, or happy.
Though he began by playing local dances in San Antonio’s West Side, Flaco’s talent eventually earned him international acclaim. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, he collaborated with a wide range of artists including Ry Cooder, Carlos Santana, the Texas Tornados, Bob Dylan, and the Rolling Stones. His contributions earned him multiple Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and cemented his status as the definitive Tex-Mex accordionist.
Despite his fame, Flaco remained rooted in his community and culture. He was a mentor to younger musicians and a proud ambassador of San Antonio’s musical heritage. His influence can be heard in the work of contemporary artists like Josh Baca of Los Texmaniacs, who credits Flaco with bringing the Mexican-American spirit to genres like blues, rock, and country.
Texas music historian Hector Saldaña described Flaco as “San Antonio’s Louis Armstrong,” a comparison that speaks to his cultural impact and enduring legacy.
As tributes pour in from around the world, one thing is clear: Flaco Jiménez didn’t just play the accordion — he gave voice to a region, a tradition, and a people. His music will continue to echo across generations.