Worlds of Music 2: Blog

Lydia Mendoza

Lydia Mendoza: The Queen of Tejano Music

Lydia Mendoza, often hailed as “La Alondra de la Frontera” (The Meadowlark of the Border), is a legendary figure in the world of Tejano music. Born in 1916 in Houston, Texas, Mendoza’s career spanned over six decades, during which she became a beacon of Mexican American culture and music.

Mendoza’s musical journey began in the 1920s with her family’s band, La Familia Mendoza. Her talent quickly shone through, and by the 1930s, she had established herself as a solo artist. Her first major hit, “Mal Hombre,” recorded in 1934, catapulted her to fame and remains one of her most iconic songs.

Smithsonian Folkways Records, through its acquisition of Arhoolie Records, has played a crucial role in keeping Mendoza’s music alive. The label has curated and released several collections of her work, ensuring that her contributions to Tejano and conjunto music are accessible to new generations of listeners.

One notable collection is “Mal Hombre and Other Original Hits from the 1930s,” which features some of her earliest and most influential recordings. Another significant release is “First Queen of Tejano Music,” which showcases her recordings from the early 1950s. These collections not only highlight her musical prowess but also her ability to convey deep emotion and cultural pride through her songs.

Lydia Mendoza’s impact on music and culture has been widely recognized. In 1982, she was named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts, one of the highest honors for folk and traditional artists in the United States. Her music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences, reflecting the rich tapestry of Mexican American heritage.

Through the efforts of Smithsonian Folkways Records, Lydia Mendoza’s legacy endures, allowing her voice to continue to
sing the stories of love, hardship, and resilience that define the Tejano experience. Listen to the women of Tejano music, with Tejano Roots. Explore these selections and more through our online database, Smithsonian Global Sound for Libraries.