NPR Music Alt.Latino: A Tejano master gets his flowers. Plus, Yahritza y Su Esencia returns
Mar 18, 2026
A Tejano legend’s life is traced through a celebratory tribute and conversations about regional roots. Yahritza y Su Esencia returns with a bold sophomore record and country-tinged melodies. Brazilian artist Lucas Santtana reunites with mentor Gilberto Gil. Ana Tijoux revisits late-90s hip-hop and protest rap.
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Ruben Ramos Defines Tejano's Hybrid Roots
- Ruben Ramos personifies Tejano as a hybrid of Mexican forms and American influences developed in Texas from the 1919 Serenateros to his 1969 band Mexican Revolution.
- Felix Contreras details family musical lineage, Ramos's 1969 band name choice, and his 1999 Grammy with Los Super 7 to show Tejano's cultural mashup.
Tejano's Popularity Shifted To New Mexican Regional Sounds
- Tejano's peak in the 1990s around Selena faded as contemporary listeners imported fresh Mexican regional sounds like norteño and banda.
- Ana Maria Sayre explains how younger American-born artists now create Mexican sounds, shifting attention away from traditional Tejano.
Yahritza's Deliberate Comeback After Controversy
- Yahritza y Su Esencia returned with a mature sophomore album Metamorphosis after time away and controversy, showing intentional timing over quick output.
- Ana Maria Sayre recounts their 2023 food controversy, the multi-year break, and songs like Que Te Costó signaling a stronger return.