Pepe Maldonado | Photos: Mariaelena Villarreal / Tejano Nation
McAllen, Texas — The Tejano and Conjunto music communities mourn the loss of Conjunto legend Jose “Pepe” Maldonado Sr., who passed away on Friday, November 29, 2024, at 83. Maldonado’s contributions to the genres have left an indelible mark, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Born in 1941, Pepe Maldonado grew up in a hard-working migrant family in the Rio Grande Valley, who dreamed of entering the music scene. By the time he was a teenager, Maldonado was already performing with local bands, honing his skills on the accordion and bajo sexto but was most interested in singing.
Late Conjunto legend Ricardo Guzman mentored a young Maldonado, who helped hone his skills. “He had one of the greatest groups here,” Maldonado told Pharr From Heaven in 2014. “After a while he said, ‘You know you sing good, I’m going to help.’ He taught me a lot. He taught me how to vocalize.”
In 1956, Maldonado joined Gilberto Perez y Su Conjunto as a singer and playing bass guitar. His career took off in the 1960s when he formed his own band, Pepe Maldonado y su Conjunto. Known for his distinctive style and energetic performances, he quickly became a favorite in the Conjunto scene. “Troquero” and “Amorcito Consentido” were two of his biggest hits, but none bigger than “Al Pie De Un Crucifijo.” His music resonated with fans across Texas and beyond, earning him a reputation as one of the genre’s most influential figures recording 20 LPs and 20 CDs.
In addition to his musical talents, Maldonado was also a dedicated promoter of Conjunto music. He founded La Lomita Park in McAllen, Texas, a venue that became a hub for Conjunto musicians and fans for over two decades. La Lomita Park hosted countless performances, bringing together some of the biggest names in the genre and providing a platform for up-and-coming artists. Maldonado’s efforts to preserve and promote Conjunto music were instrumental in keeping the tradition alive and thriving. La Lomita Park was featured in an episode of the travel show “The Texas Bucket List” in 2017.
The Texas Bucket List — La Lomita Park In McAllen
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Throughout his career, Maldonado received numerous accolades for his contributions to Tejano music. He was inducted into the Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and received various awards recognizing his impact on the genre. Despite his success, Maldonado remained humble and dedicated to his craft, always striving to share the joy of Conjunto music with others.
Pepe Maldonado’s passing is a significant loss for the Tejano music community, but his legacy will live on through his music and the countless lives he touched. As we remember his remarkable life and career, we celebrate the enduring spirit of Conjunto music that he so passionately championed.
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