Courtesy of Zapata Family
The Tejano music community mourns the loss of a beloved figure, John Zapata, who passed away on July 25 in San Antonio. He was 72. Known as the “Man Behind the Autographs” at the Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair, Zapata was a dedicated advocate for Tejano music, an internet broadcaster, and a talented photographer.
News of his passing was shared via social media by his brother, David Zapata, who expressed gratitude to all who were part of John’s life. “Today, our brother peacefully passed away in San Antonio. We extend our gratitude to all his friends and family for their presence in his life. He will now be reunited with our mom and dad in Heaven. May he rest in peace,” David said. Although the cause of death was not announced, John had been found unresponsive in his home about a week before his passing and was in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit. He had also faced various health issues over the past few years.
John’s granddaughter, Ashlee Aldalawi, reflected on his resilience and spirit, saying, “After bravely battling many health challenges, he is now at peace. He was a true fighter, and throughout his life, he was full of spirit and adventure. His memory will live on in our hearts forever.”
For many years, John Zapata broadcast Tejano music on his Xap FM internet radio station, bringing the vibrant sounds of Tejano to listeners worldwide. Since 2004, he played a pivotal role at the Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair in San Antonio, coordinating meet-and-greet sessions between Tejano artists and their fans. His dedication to the Tejano music industry was highlighted in a 2016 Tejano Nation article by contributor Loli Castilla, who praised his unwavering commitment: “Contributing his life, time, and his devotion to what he loves from the heart and soul…Tejano Music!”
John Zapata (Courtesy photo)
Despite his medical challenges, Zapata’s passion for Tejano music never waned. In 2016, he shared his motivation for his tireless work: “Someone asked me, ‘Why do you work so hard on these Tejano events?’ It’s simple. I love the music. I enjoy watching young artists trying to find their niche. Some do, many don’t. Those that do, rise fast in this industry. I’ve been blessed being involved since the early boom of Tejano music. Watching it grow, mature and then reinvent itself into what we have now.”
John Zapata’s contributions to the Tejano industry were vast. He ran a successful performing arts video production company in Dallas, which led him to photograph the iconic Selena. He later became an official photographer for the Tejano Music Awards and took on the role of coordinating autograph sessions at Fan Fair in 2004. What began with 15 bands grew to over 130, with Zapata dedicating countless hours to bringing over 100,000 fans closer to their favorite Tejano artists.
Funeral services include a visitation for family and friends with a viewing beginning at 1 pm and services at 2 pm on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Castillo’s Funeral Home, located at 520 N. Gen. McMullen in San Antonio. His legacy will continue to inspire and resonate within the Tejano music community for years to come.
Follow Tejano Nation on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our Spotify playlists and iHeartRadio podcast.