Fifty years ago, “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” from Freddy Fender made history as a crossover sensation, capturing the hearts of listeners across country, pop, and Latin music. Today, that legacy is honored with its induction into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress—alongside Vicente Fernández’s “El Rey” and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton album—thanks to the efforts of Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), who has worked tirelessly to ensure greater Latino representation in American music history.
Released in 1975, “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” propelled Freddy Fender to stardom, reaching No. 1 on both the country and pop charts. Its heartfelt lyrics and Fender’s signature bilingual delivery set a precedent for Latino musicians navigating mainstream success. Fender, born Baldemar Huerta in San Benito, Texas, overcame numerous industry challenges before cementing his place in American music. His induction into the National Recording Registry marks a triumphant recognition of his impact—one that continues to resonate across generations.
Freddy Fender — Before The Next Teardrop Falls
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“Freddy Fender’s 1975 hit, ‘Before the Next Teardrop Falls’ landed him the No.1 spot on the pop and country charts and underscored a true commitment to creating art no matter the obstacles in his path,” said Congressman Castro.
Congressman Castro, a steadfast advocate for Latino representation in media and entertainment, has spent years pushing for greater recognition of Latino artists within the National Recording Registry. Since 2000, the Library of Congress has preserved recordings with cultural, historic, or aesthetic significance, yet Latino musicians account for less than five percent of all inducted works. Through public nominations and continued advocacy, Congressman Castro has worked to change that trend, previously securing titles like Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” and Irene Cara’s “Flashdance…What a Feeling” in the Registry.
Alongside Fender’s “Before the Next Teardrop Falls,” this year’s inductees include Vicente Fernández’s “El Rey,” an iconic mariachi anthem, and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton, a groundbreaking musical celebrating immigrants’ contributions to American history. Their induction not only honors musical excellence but reinforces the enduring influence of Latino artists in shaping American culture.
“These are three incredible pieces of work by three wonderful Latino artists,” Castillo said in an Instagram video. “Every year you help me nominate Latino and Latina artists for recognition and that’s important because right now they make up only about five percent of the inductions into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress and as I’ve said before unfortunately the Latino story and Latino achievements have often often been left out of the larger American story.”
As Congressman Castro continues his efforts to amplify Latino voices, he will soon invite the public to submit new nominations for the 2026 induction cycle. Meanwhile, fans can celebrate “Before the Next Teardrop Falls”—50 years after its release—knowing that Freddy Fender’s unforgettable ballad has officially secured its place as a cornerstone of American music.
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