Multi-Latin Grammy-winning Tejano recording artist Joe Posada celebrates the release of his new single, “Atrévete,” produced by multiple Grammy-winning producer Gilbert Velasquez. Courtesy photo.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Multi-Latin Grammy-winning Tejano recording artist, composer, and saxophonist Joe Posada is inviting listeners to take a chance on love with the release of his new single, “Atrévete,” an original song produced by multiple Grammy-winning producer Gilbert Velasquez.

The San Antonio music legend recently joined Romeo on the Tejano Nation Radio syndicated program to discuss the inspiration behind the heartfelt track, his longtime collaboration with Velasquez, and why Tejano music continues to be at the center of everything he does—even while performing jazz and other genres throughout Texas.

For Posada, the song began with a single word.

“I kind of had that idea in my head as far as the hook, and I was really fascinated by that word, which means ‘I dare you,'” Posada said. “I had that idea for the bridge part, and then it just stuck in my head.”

Rather than forcing the song, Posada allowed the concept to develop naturally into a romantic storyline.

“It tells a pretty nice story about a guy being fascinated with the gal, and he knows that she’s into him too. Finally, he lets her know, ‘I dare you to stay with me. I dare you to love me, and I dare you to spend your life with me.'”

After refining the lyrics and melody, Posada knew he had created something special.

“Sometimes you write something and think, ‘I don’t know about that,’ but I feel pretty good about this theme. And of course, the music really helped it out too.”

A trusted partnership with Gilbert Velasquez

Helping bring “Atrévete” to life was acclaimed producer Gilbert Velasquez, whose resume includes multiple Grammy-winning productions and decades of work with some of Tejano music’s biggest names.

For Posada, working with Velasquez is built on a friendship and professional relationship spanning nearly half a century.

“I’ve known Gilbert for 50 years, I guess,” Posada said. “He knows what he’s doing.”

Posada also reflected on the influence of legendary producer Manny Guerra, who helped shape both musicians early in their careers.

“Gilbert learned from Manny Guerra, and we all worked with Manny Guerra. I remember Manny throwing me out when I was a kid and telling me to go home and work on my intonation and work on this and work on that.”

Those lessons continue to pay dividends today.

“If you’re ready and you’ve studied your craft, you go in there and he’s a joy to work with.”

More new music on the horizon

While “Atrévete” marks Posada’s latest release, it won’t be the last.

The veteran artist revealed he already has several completed recordings waiting to be released and plans to take a measured approach before putting out a full album.

“I’m going to release this and then I’ve got another one that I’m going to release,” he explained. “Kind of get a feel for it, and then maybe release an album after that.”

Fortunately for fans, the material is already finished.

“It won’t take long at all because I’ve got a bunch of tunes in the can already.”

A musician beyond genres

Although Posada is one of Tejano music’s most respected artists, he has never limited himself to one musical style.

Having performed professionally since high school with legendary groups including The Royal Jesters, Posada has spent decades building a career as a versatile musician equally comfortable playing jazz festivals, corporate events, restaurants, and concert stages.

“I’m a Tejano musician, but I consider myself a musician,” Posada said. “I don’t just concentrate on Tejano music.”

His schedule reflects that versatility. Posada performs regularly at Landry’s on the San Antonio River Walk, plays jazz at Tony G’s Soul Food Restaurant, appears at the intimate 1919 Bar at Blue Star Arts Complex, and continues to headline private events throughout Texas.

This fall, he’ll also headline the Corpus Jazz Festival.

Still, despite his diverse musical résumé, Posada says Tejano music remains at the heart of who he is.

“Tejano music is in my DNA. I grew up listening to that stuff since I was a kid. It keeps my equilibrium going.”

He believes exploring different genres ultimately strengthens his artistry.

“If I stop playing Tejano music, I’ll miss it completely.”

A pioneer of Tejano jazz

Born and raised on San Antonio’s West Side, Joe Posada has long been recognized as one of Tejano music’s most innovative performers. A gifted saxophonist, pianist, accordionist, vocalist, songwriter, and arranger, he helped redefine the genre by incorporating sophisticated jazz harmonies, improvisation, and vocal scatting into traditional Tejano rhythms.

After early stints with Rudy Tee and the Reno Bops, The Royal Jesters, and David Marez’s People, Posada founded El Quinto Sol in 1982 before later launching his own independent label, Baby Dude Records.

His acclaimed catalog includes albums such as Breakaway and Canción para Mi Padre, along with fan favorites including “Tu Recuerdo y Yo,” “No Puedo Más,” and “Valiente.”

With “Atrévete,” Posada once again demonstrates why he remains one of Tejano music’s most respected songwriters and musicians—continuing to evolve while staying true to the sound that’s been part of his life from the very beginning.

“Atrévete” is now available on major digital streaming platforms.