[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 28 (Tuesday, March 2, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E279]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       THE TEJANO MUSIC INDUSTRY

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 2, 2010

  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 30 years 
of honors by the Texas Talent Musician's Association. This San Antonio-
based non-profit organization promotes excellence in the Tejano Music 
Industry.
  Tejano music is known for its modern sound with influences from 
cumbia, rock and blues. This type of music originated along the Mexico-
Texas border during the time of the Mexican-American Revolution in the 
1840s. Not only is it a combination of different sounds, but also a 
fusion of Mexican, Texan, and even Eastern European cultures. Songs 
within Tejano music are known to be passed down from generation to 
generation, making sure those epic stories about political leaders, 
history, and current times are consistently being told through song. 
Tejano Music is truly an original American art form.
  It is impossible to talk about Tejano music without mentioning Selena 
Quintanilla Perez, the ``Queen of Tejano Music.'' Selena was a proud 
Mexican-American woman who was born and raised in Texas. Although she 
did not speak Spanish, most of her music was in Spanish. She performed 
from the age of 8 until her death at the age of 23. In 1987 she won 
Female Vocalist of the Year at the Tejano Music Awards. Selena's 
contributions to the music industry are legendary and are commendable.
  The Texas Talent Musicians Association has hosted the Tejano Music 
Awards every year since 1980. This year the 30th annual Tejano Music 
Awards will take place on July 11th in San Antonio, Texas, proudly 
known as the ``Tejano Music Capital of the World''.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am 
privileged to recognize Tejano Music as truly an original American art 
form, Selena Quintanilla Perez as a legend of Tejano Music, and the 
Texas Talent Musician's Association for their international promotion 
of Tejano Music.

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