Jaime DeAnda performs with a young fan at Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair 2025. | Credit: Lisa Marie Gonzales / Tejano Nation
At the 2025 Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair in San Antonio, Texas, Tejano and Conjunto icon Jaime DeAnda took the stage with a very special guest: 3-year-old fan Angel Jaziel Arroyo. The heartwarming moment highlighted not only the future of the genre but also the deep passion, perseverance, and mentorship that define the essence of DeAnda’s career.
A Chance Meeting Turns Into a Beautiful Bond
Jaime DeAnda’s path to mentorship began when Angel’s mother reached out to his wife, Darlene DeAnda, about a special family gathering. At just two years old, Angel had developed a fascination with the music. According to Jaime, Angel’s mom shared how they were playing Tejano and Conjunto music videos at home, and when one of the Conjunto Hall of Famer’s songs came on, Angel couldn’t stop watching. The young boy even picked up his toy accordion and started mimicking what he saw on screen.
“That was the beginning of it,” Jaime reflects. “It was such a special moment to see a young child connect so deeply with the music. I was amazed by how passionate Angel was.”
Jaime met Angel for the first time at Fiesta in 2024, and ever since, Angel’s mom sent videos of him playing the accordion, often dressed like Jaime himself. The bond between the two grew stronger with each passing day, and it was clear that a special connection was forming.
A Birthday Surprise Turns Into a Stage Performance
As Angel’s third birthday approached, his parents decided to hire Jaime to perform at his birthday party, but Jaime had something special planned. He wanted to surprise the little boy by dressing just like him when he took the stage. Angel and Jaime wore matching outfits — shorts, shirts, and cowboy boots — and Jaime was thrilled to see how much Angel looked up to him.
The performance was a hit, and Angel didn’t want to leave the stage. “He was right there with me, the whole time, dancing and singing,” Jaime recalls. “Angel even told his mom, ‘I need a mic like Jaime’s!’”
Three-year-old Jaime DeAnda fan, Angel Jaziel Arroyo, on stage at Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair 2025. | Credit: Isaac Castillo / Tejano Nation
A Dream Comes True at the 2025 Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair
This past weekend, Jaime invited Angel to join him on stage at the 2025 Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair in San Antonio, Texas. When Angel arrived, Jaime noticed he was a little nervous, but he took the time to reassure him. “I want you to have fun, go on stage, and dance, sing, move, and play the accordion better than me!” Jaime told him.
Angel was ready. He told Jaime, “Yes, I can do it.” And when the moment came, the young accordion player took the stage with Jaime, radiating joy and confidence.
“It was amazing to see the new generation embracing the genre with so much passion,” Jaime says. “It’s a beautiful feeling to know that I’m able to inspire someone, no matter how young they are. Music transcends age. Just like my dad pushed me to play the accordion, I want to do the same for others.”
Follow Tejano Nation on Instagram
The Importance of Mentorship and Perseverance
Jaime Deanda’s journey to success has been paved with challenges, but his perseverance and love for Tejano music have kept him going. He reflects on his early days of learning the accordion without the help of YouTube or online tutorials. Instead, he learned by watching Tejano legends like Ruben Naranjo, Tony De La Rosa, Angel Flores, and Benny Medina.
“Back then, we didn’t have YouTube or social media,” Jaime says. “We had to learn by watching the masters and practicing every weekend. It wasn’t about fame or success, it was about the love of the music.”
Even as he grew older and started his band, Las Estrellas de Houston, in 1977, Jaime never imagined that his love for the accordion would turn into a career. It was all about having fun, playing music with family, and living in the moment.
Jaime DeAnda performs at Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair 2025. | Credit: Isaac Castillo / Tejano Nation
A Legacy of Encouragement for the New Generation
Jaime’s advice for the new generation is simple: “Everyone has talent, everyone deserves a chance. You never know what gifts you have until you try. Music is a beautiful thing. Test your gifts, find your passion, and always keep both feet on the ground.”
Jaime encourages young musicians to discover their unique sound, just as he did. “Tony Delarosa once told me, ‘Jaime, you’ve got the energy, but what you’re missing is your own style. Find it.’ And that stuck with me. The day I realized I had my own signature sound was a game-changer.”
He explains how the moment he heard his own song on the radio, with a young fan pointing out his unique accordion style, was when he realized that creating your own sound is what sets you apart in the music world.
Preserving the Legacy of Tejano Music
As the Tejano music industry evolves, Jaime believes it’s more important than ever to mentor and encourage the next generation. “If we don’t leave a legacy for the new generation, our genre could fade away,” he warns. “We have to support, encourage, and mentor them to keep the music alive. Anything is possible if you work hard and stay dedicated.”
Jaime’s journey hasn’t been easy. In 2004, his right lung collapsed, and in 2021, he faced a life-threatening infection. Doctors told him he might never sing again. But Jaime’s faith and determination have always been his guiding light. “As long as you believe and have strong faith, the impossible is possible,” he says.
For Jaime Deanda, music is not just a career; it’s a legacy. Through mentorship, passion, and perseverance, he continues to inspire the next generation of Tejano artists — including young Angel Jaziel Arroyo, who will undoubtedly continue to carry the torch for years to come.
A Bright Future for Tejano Music
With young talents like Angel embracing Tejano music, the future of the genre looks bright. Jaime DeAnda’s influence will continue to resonate, reminding us all that passion, perseverance, and mentorship are key ingredients in achieving success — no matter your age.
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.