Tejano and Conjunto music  

Rubi Guzman 

Music Journalist 

Growing up in Central Texas exposed me to a vibrant fusion of musical influences. The region serves as a melting pot for diverse genres, shaped by waves of migration and cultural exchange. This blend of traditions has made Texas the birthplace of unique musical styles, particularly conjunto, a genre that reflects the state’s rich Mexican-American heritage and immigrant history. 

The Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin defines conjunto as a uniquely American genre, indigenous to South and Central Texas. Its roots stretch back more than a century, when Tejanos, Texans of Mexican descent, were introduced to the accordion-based music of German, Czech and Polish immigrants. They adopted the instrument and paired it with the bajo sexto, a 12-string guitar-like instrument that replaced the European tuba, creating a new sound that reflected their identity and way of life. 

Originally associated with agricultural workers, conjunto quickly became more than just music, it became a cultural expression that connected communities. Despite changes over the years, the core of the music remains largely unchanged. Its signature rhythms and heartfelt lyrics continue to echo through backyard gatherings, and local festivals. 

At the heart of keeping this tradition alive are efforts like “La Mesa,” an online show hosted by Mark Webber, also known as El Tacuache, through the City of San Antonio’s municipal government. In one episode, Webber sat down with Jerry Benavides, owner of KEDA-AM, the first Tejano radio station in the United States. Based in San Antonio, KEDA-AM has long been a platform for local and emerging artists, and it plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting conjunto and Tejano music. 

Joining the conversation was Zeke Campos, a young Texas musician contributing to the new wave of conjunto and Tejano performers. Campos, like many artists of his generation, blends tradition with modernity, showing that while the roots remain deep, the branches continue to grow. Also proving that conjunto music is not just for old people music, it can be for anyone. 

Together, they discussed some of the genre’s stars, Los Garcia Bros, The Hometown Boys, and Bernardo y Sus Compadres, who laid the foundation for what conjunto has become today. These artists are recognized not only for their musical talents but also for their role in preserving a distinctly Texan cultural heritage. 

One key distinction between Tejano and conjunto music lies in rhythm and instrumentation. While both genres share similar origins, Tejano tends to incorporate more diverse beats and broader influences such as rock and pop, often featuring synthesizers and brass instruments. Conjunto, by contrast, remains closer to its roots, built around the accordion and bajo sexto. 

In San Antonio, community efforts continue to keep conjunto alive and thriving. One example is the annual Conjunto Bash, a free music festival sponsored by KEDA-AM, celebrating the genre with live performances and family-friendly entertainment. Events like these not only showcase musical talent but also bring generations together, reinforcing cultural identity and pride. 

Conjunto’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to unite people across backgrounds and generations. Whether it’s through a simple dance beat, a sentimental lyric, or the cry of an accordion, the music tells the story of a people who adapted, endured, and celebrated their shared roots. 

As the sounds of Texas continue to evolve, conjunto remains a powerful reminder of the state’s multicultural past, and a vibrant part of its present.