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Jimmy Gonzalez was one of the most influential and successful figures in Tejano music, leading the legendary Grupo Mazz for over four decades. He was not only a talented singer and musician, but also a visionary producer and songwriter who shaped the sound and style of the genre.
Gonzalez was born in Brownsville, Texas, in 1951. He grew up listening to various musical influences, such as rock, country, blues, and Mexican folk music. He learned to play guitar at a young age and formed his first band, The Latin Jesters, when he was 14 years old.
In 1978, he teamed up with his childhood friend Joe Lopez to form Grupo Mazz, a band that would revolutionize Tejano music with their innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. They combined accordion, bajo sexto, keyboards, drums, bass, and horns to create a rich and diverse musical palette. They also experimented with different genres, such as cumbia, ranchera, bolero, ballad, pop, and R&B.
Grupo Mazz quickly rose to fame with their catchy and romantic songs that appealed to a broad audience. Some of their most popular hits include “No Te Olvidare”, “Estupido Romantico”, “Que Me Lleven Canciones”, “Ven Devorame Otra Vez”, and “Laura”. They won numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and Tejano Music Awards. They also sold millions of records and performed in sold-out venues across the U.S., Mexico, and Latin America.
Gonzalez was the mastermind behind Grupo Mazz’s success. He was the main producer and arranger of the band’s albums and the composer of many of their songs. He had a keen ear for melodies and harmonies, as well as a knack for creating catchy hooks and memorable lyrics. He also had a charismatic and expressive voice that conveyed emotion and passion.
Gonzalez was also a mentor and inspiration for many other Tejano artists. He helped launch the careers of singers and collaborated with other legends of the genre.
Gonzalez passed away on June 6, 2018, at 67. He had complications from diabetes and was hospitalized in San Antonio. His death was mourned by his family, friends, fans, and colleagues in the music industry. He left behind a legacy of music that will live on for generations to come.
Jimmy Gonzalez was a true pioneer and icon of Tejano music. He was the mastermind behind Grupo Mazz’s phenomenal career. He was a gifted artist who enriched the culture and history of his people with his music. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest Tejano stars of all time.
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