Flaco Jimenez | Photo: Mariaelena Villarreal /Tejano Nation
Washington, DC — In a momentous recognition of their contributions to the arts, Selena Quintanilla–Perez and Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez will be awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts by President Joseph R. Biden. The ceremony, honoring the 2022 and 2023 recipients, will take place on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the White House, followed by a reception with remarks from President Biden, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and other distinguished guests.
Honoring Icons of Tejano Music
Selena Quintanilla, often referred to as the “Queen of Tejano Music,” left an indelible mark on the music industry with her vibrant voice and charismatic performances. Born in Lake Jackson, Texas, Selena’s career began at a young age, performing with her family’s band, Selena y Los Dinos. Her breakthrough came with hits like “Como La Flor” and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” which showcased her ability to blend traditional Tejano music with contemporary pop influences. Tragically, Selena’s life was cut short in 1995, but her legacy continues to inspire and influence artists worldwide.
Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez is a legendary accordionist whose career spans over six decades. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Flaco Jimenez is celebrated for his mastery of the accordion and his role in popularizing conjunto music, a genre that blends Mexican and Texan influences. Flaco has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from the Rolling Stones to Dwight Yoakam, bringing the sounds of Tejano music to a global audience. His contributions have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a place in the hearts of music lovers everywhere.
A Celebration of Artistic Excellence
The National Medal of Arts is the highest award given to artists and arts patrons by the federal government. It recognizes individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to the excellence, growth, support, and availability of the arts in the United States. This year’s ceremony will also honor other notable figures, including actress Eva Longoria, filmmakers Steven Spielberg and Spike Lee, and musicians Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah. Full details here.
Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD, Chair of the National Endowment for the Arts, emphasized the importance of the arts in enriching lives and fostering community. “The arts enrich our lives, helping us to ask questions, imagine new possibilities, and create community,” she said. “The NEA is pleased to join President Biden in congratulating the 2022 and 2023 National Medal of Arts recipients whose curiosity, creativity, hard work, and dedication have inspired and touched so many in our country and around the globe.”
Join the celebration and watch the live stream of the ceremony at www.whitehouse.gov/live on October 21, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. ET.
National Arts and Humanities Reception (5:30 pm ET on Oct. 21, 2024)
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About the National Endowment for the Arts
Established by Congress in 1965, the National Endowment for the Arts is an independent federal agency that is the largest funder of the arts and arts education in communities nationwide and a catalyst of public and private support for the arts. By advancing equitable opportunities for arts participation and practice, the NEA fosters and sustains an environment in which the arts benefit everyone in the United States.
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