Photo & Video: San Pluto
With tears in his eyes, the legend Santiago Jiménez Jr. states, “I don’t have nothing to lose. I don’t have nothing to fear. All I have in my mind is that I want people to follow me as much as they can. To be my friends. I’m giving all my power. All my soul. All my music. I give thanks to God and to my father.” If you didn’t catch the recent interview on Facebook and Instagram, I highly recommend you watch it. It is full of the Jiménez Family history, Santiago’s music history, Grammy nominations, White House visits, and many other stories and accolades. The conjunto legend recently released an album titled “Still Kicking” in which he sings and plays ballads. Jiménez is a regular at The Lonesome Rose on N St. Mary’s St so if you’re looking to see the legend play in person, this will be the spot for you.
When I asked him if he was done making music, he said, “never.” He spoke about not wanting to be forgotten and with over 50 years of making music and performing, I don’t think that will ever happen. His album can be found on streaming platforms, so be sure to stream and purchase. Just as we need to support the new artists, we cannot forget the artists who have paved the way. Tejano is not dead and in fact, is in a state of revival. So next time you get a chance, go to your favorite jukebox, throw in some money and play the classics with the new. I promise, you won’t regret it.
