SAN MARCOS – The legends of Tejano music are being honored in a big way.
The greats from the past and present are on full display at Texas State University in San Marcos.
"It's just amazing," Tejano legend Little Joe said. "It brings back some really great memories."
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Little Joe was in awe as he walked through the new "Legends of Tejano Music" exhibit on Thursday. Many costumes he wore back in the 50s and 60s were on display.
"For me to have a chance to make some contribution to the legacy of this genre of music, it's important to me," Little Joe said. "It's also important for the future generations to see."
This is exhibit is all possible because of one man, Ramon Hernandez.
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A retired journalist and Tejano music fan, Hernandez has been collecting artifacts and memorabilia in his home for years.
"This is just one-sixth of the stuff I have," Hernandez said.
With help from the Wittliff Collections staff at Texas State, Hernandez was able to set up the exhibit to highlight all the history of Tejano music.
"It goes back to 1928 until the present," Hernandez said. "We started with Lydia Mendoza and Rosita Fernandez, and they both started their careers in 1928."
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The women of Tejano music also have a section in the exhibit. It features past artists like Selena and Patsy Torres, to present artists like Shelly Lares.
"It's surreal and a real honor to be a part of this," Lares said.
The Legends of Tejano Music exhibit will be on display through Dec. 20.
There are hopes it can be seen in other cities across the state, even San Antonio.
