The global music community is mourning the loss of Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez, a six-time Grammy Award-winning American accordionist and one of the most influential pioneers of Tejano and conjunto music. Jiménez passed away on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at the age of 86, surrounded by loved ones in his son’s home in San Antonio, Texas.
Jiménez’s passing was confirmed by his family in an official statement, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans and asking for privacy during this difficult time. Though the family has not publicly disclosed the cause of death, Flaco had been battling vascular complications earlier in the year and was hospitalized in January due to a blood clot in his leg.
Who Was Flaco Jiménez and Why Fans Worldwide Are Grieving
Born on March 11, 1939, in San Antonio, Texas, Jiménez was a musical prodigy, performing with his father, Santiago Jiménez Sr., a legendary conjunto artist, from the age of seven. Over the decades, Flaco rose to become a towering figure in the Tex-Mex, Tejano, and conjunto music scenes, blending traditional Mexican sounds with American genres like rock, country, and blues.
Known for his lightning-fast accordion solos and infectious rhythms, Flaco’s music was not just entertainment—it was a cultural movement. He helped bring regional Mexican music to the mainstream, especially through collaborations with major American and international acts.
Grammy-Winning Career and Groundbreaking Collaborations
Flaco Jiménez’s accolades include six Grammy Awards, among them the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. His discography features collaborations with the likes of:
. Bob Dylan
. The Rolling Stones
. Linda Ronstadt
. Ry Cooder
. Dwight Yoakam
. Carlos Santana
He was a founding member of Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven, both of which helped popularize Tex-Mex fusion across the globe.
In 2021, Jiménez’s critically acclaimed album Partners was inducted into the U.S. Library of Congress National Recording Registry, immortalizing his contribution to American music heritage. In 2022, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by the U.S. government, solidifying his place as a cultural ambassador.
Cultural Impact and Enduring Legacy
Jiménez’s influence extends far beyond the music charts. His artistry inspired generations of Latinx musicians and helped reshape the American perception of border music. In many ways, he became a bridge between cultures, genres, and generations.
According to Tejano Nation, “Flaco wasn’t just a musician—he was a movement.” Music historian David Morales adds, “What Bob Marley was to reggae, Flaco was to conjunto. He gave the genre a global passport.”
Fans from across the world have taken to social media to share memories and express their grief:
> “Flaco Jiménez brought my family together every Sunday with his music. A true legend has gone home,” wrote one X (formerly Twitter) user.
> “We lost an accordion god. Rest easy, maestro.” tweeted Grammy-nominated artist Gina Chavez.
Final Days and Family Tribute
Despite health challenges, Jiménez remained active in the studio and was reportedly working on a memoir detailing his life story. His family, in a heartfelt message, assured fans that Flaco’s music would continue to resonate and inspire.
> “He gave the world his heart through music. We thank you for loving him as much as we did,” the family said.
Plans for a public memorial concert in San Antonio are underway, expected to draw musicians and fans from across the globe.