Barbi Leo catches up with Tejano star Elida Reyna
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After more than three decades at the forefront of Tejano music, two-time Latin Grammy-winning artist Elida Reyna announced her retirement from touring — a decision rooted in love, faith, and a desire to be present for the people who matter most. In a heartfelt interview with KIII 3 News anchor and Domingo Live host Barbi Leo, Elida reflected on her 34-year journey and explained why it’s time to slow down.
“I just thought it was time,” Elida said. “I’ve had an amazing career — 34 years, over 40 awards, two Grammys. I feel like I’ve pretty much done it all… I’m happy. I’m content. And now it’s time to spend time with my family.”
The “Luna Llena” singer revealed that her father was recently diagnosed with dementia, a deeply personal reason for stepping away from the fast-paced life of a touring artist. Coupled with her spiritual awakening — she was baptized last year and saved two years ago — Elida says her heart and priorities have transformed.
“My passion right now is serving the Lord,” she shared. “I’m not the same person anymore. I don’t want to be glorified on stage — I want to glorify God.”
A Career Built on Grit and Heart
Elida’s story is one of perseverance. She broke through a male-dominated Tejano industry with tenacity and self-belief. In the early years, she faced skepticism and industry bias but stayed resilient.
“They didn’t want to take you seriously,” Elida recalled. “They thought you’d get 15 minutes of fame and disappear. But I stayed the course… We had an album out every year, three singles on the radio, videos, constant touring. We weren’t making a lot of money, but we believed in the mission.”
It wasn’t until a decade in — with the success of her heartfelt song “Duele” — that Reyna felt she had truly “made it” as an artist.
“That’s when I felt like a true artist. I wrote my life into my songs. People connected with that. And that’s what sustained my career.”
Elida Reyna — Duele
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Looking Ahead: Faith, Family, and a Final Album
Though Reyna will no longer tour full-time, she isn’t closing the book on music entirely. She’s currently in the studio finishing her final album and even working on her first Christian song, a project she never imagined taking on earlier in her career.
“If you had told me years ago I’d be recording Christian music, I wouldn’t have believed you. But now, I would love to.”
Elida’s Farewell Tour is already underway, culminating in a grand hometown show on November 8 at Bert Ogden Arena in the Rio Grande Valley. The concert will feature special guests and promises to be a celebration of her legacy and a thank you to the fans who’ve stood by her for over three decades.
“If you want to see my show one last time, all the dates are on our website and social media. That RGV show is going to be special.”
A Legacy of Love
Beyond the accolades — the Latin Grammys, the Tejano Music Awards, and the decades of hits — Elida Reyna wants to be remembered for the person she is.
“I want to be remembered as a good person. Someone who made a difference. Someone who felt like family through music.”
She also sees a spark of the future in her daughter Leylah, a talented young musician with a vivacious spirit.
“She plays guitar and piano, and she’s got such a beautiful energy. I just pray she never loses that, because this industry can be tough. But we’ll support her, whatever she chooses.”
As Elida takes a final bow on tour and embraces this new chapter of faith and family, she leaves behind not only a musical legacy but also an example of authenticity, strength, and grace.
“I love my fans so much,” Elida said. “They’ve given me more than I ever dreamed. I’m forever grateful.”
Follow Elida Reyna’s Farewell Tour schedule and a meet-and greet at meet.elidareynayavante.com.
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