Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) honored music legend Juan Jose “Johnny” Canales at a ceremony in Laredo, Texas.

“Johnny Canales, a beloved television host and pioneer of Tejano music, was a cultural icon whose influence on the Latino community, particularly in South Texas, is uncontested,” said Dr. Cuellar. “Johnny's contributions to the music industry will forever be remembered and cherished. Beyond Johnny's beloved music and television host career, he was a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless people. It is an honor to recognize his life and achievements.”

"Johnny was a kind and dedicated soul who cared profoundly about helping our veterans and musicians, and uplifting communities in South Texas. He never stopped being a role model for the Hispanic community in South Texas and nationwide. I want to thank Congressman Cuellar for this special recognition of my beloved Johnny,” said Nora Canales, Johnny Canales’ wife.

Canales was born in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, and raised in Robstown, Texas. Starting in 1983, Canales’ groundbreaking bilingual variety show “The Johnny Canales Show” provided an unprecedented stage for Tejano and Latino artists at the time. The show ran for more than 25 years.

In addition to his music and television career, Canales served in the US Army and was an avid supporter of civil rights and veterans’ issues.

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