Courtesy of Tejano Gold Countdown

This weekend, Tejano Gold Countdown, the nationally syndicated radio show hosted by Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame broadcaster Rudy Treviño, will pay tribute to the unforgettable Freddy Fender, just days before what would have been his 88th birthday on June 4. The special edition of the show will spotlight one of the most iconic interviews with the legendary Tejano music pioneer, celebrating his enduring impact on music history.

Announced through Tejano Gold Countdown’s social media, the show promises a heartfelt look back at Freddy Fender, the San Benito, Texas, native who became a global crossover star.

Fifty years ago, in 1975, Fender’s signature hit “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” made history by topping both the country and pop charts, capturing the hearts of listeners worldwide with its bilingual delivery and soulful message. The song’s legacy was honored this April with its induction into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress, cementing its place among America’s most culturally significant recordings.

Born Baldemar Huerta, Freddy Fender overcame countless industry challenges to become a trailblazer for Latino artists, paving the way for others in pop, Tejano, country, and rock music. He was the first Mexican-American artist to achieve crossover success on the blues, country, and rock charts, earning him a “triple threat” legacy that included songwriting, recording, and acting. Fender’s career accolades include three GRAMMY Awards, an RIAA Gold Certification, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and an ACM Award for Most Promising Male Vocalist.

This past fall, the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum held an exhibition curated by archivist/historian and singer Veronique Medrano, developed in collaboration with Fender’s estate, which highlights his profound influence on American music. Medrano has also launched a campaign for Fender’s induction into the County Music Hall of Fame.

As Tejano Gold Countdown celebrates Freddy Fender’s life and legacy, listeners can tune in via their local affiliate radio stations or stream the show online at tejanogoldcountdown.com. The program, a proud affiliate of Tejano Nation, keeps the spirit of Tejano music alive while continuing to honor the icons who shaped its history — with Freddy Fender’s voice echoing brightly through the years.

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Ivan Gonzalez