KATY, Texas — The 45th Annual Tejano Music Awards brought a fresh wave of energy to “The Biggest Night in Tejano Music” on Friday, November 21, as the iconic celebration took place at the Texas Rodeo Saloon in Katy — marking the first time in many years that the event was not held in San Antonio, long regarded as the “Capital of Tejano Music.” The venue change set the stage for a night that highlighted the genre’s next generation of stars, unforgettable performances, and emotional career honors.
Monica Saldivar was the night’s breakout winner, capturing three major awards, including Female Vocalist of the Year, Video of the Year for “Ya Lo Sé Que Tú Te Vas,” and Collaboration of the Year for “Pienso En Ti” with Texas Latino. Her powerful presence further solidified her status as one of Tejano’s leading contemporary voices.
Texas Latino also celebrated a major evening with Album of the Year (Tejano) for Volumen II, while the group’s frontman Gabe Rivera earned Male Vocalist of the Year, marking a milestone moment for the band’s resurgence. Their collaboration with Saldivar proved to be one of the night’s biggest crowd favorites. Da Krazy Pimpz won Album of the Year (Conjunto) for Showtime.
Veteran performer Ricardo Castillon was honored with the prestigious. Entertainer of the Year, a recognition of his enduring influence on the genre. Meanwhile, rising talent Luis AG made a bold entrance onto the Tejano stage, taking home Best New Male Artist and Best New Group with his Oros Band. Jenny B claimed Best New Female Artist, signaling a wave of new voices shaping the future of Tejano.
In the songwriter categories, Lucky Joe won Song of the Year for the fan-loved hit “Tumba Falsa,” adding another accolade to his growing music legacy. The Jukebox Preachers featuring Art Tigerina earned Country Song of the Year with their emotional rendition of “He Stopped Loving Her Today.”
The night also celebrated legendary careers as Ram Herrera and Johnny Hernandez were both awarded Lifetime Achievement honors, receiving heartfelt applause from an audience filled with artists they helped inspire.
Spectacular performances filled the Texas Rodeo Saloon, including unforgettable sets from Ram Herrera, Avizo, Lucky Joe joined by his wife Devin Banda, Monica Saldivar, Da Krazy Pimpz, Ricardo Castillon y La Diferenzia with special guest Chingo Bling, and many more — making for a dynamic and diverse showcase of Tejano talent old and new…