Las 3 Divas | Courtesy: Tejas Records
It’s been 20 years since three of Tejano’s most powerful voices came together to release one of the genre’s most influential albums. On September 27, 2005, Elida Reyna, Shelly Lares, and Stefani Montiel—known collectively as Las 3 Divas—debuted their self-titled album on Tejas Records, forever changing the course of Tejano music.
Born out of a tribute performance for the late Tejano trailblazer Laura Canales at the Tejano National Convention, the chemistry between the three singers was undeniable. That one-time performance quickly transformed into a studio collaboration and international tour. Las 3 Divas became the trio’s first and only studio album, but its legacy continues to resonate two decades later.
The album spawned the radio hit “La Cumbia Del Oeste” and earned the trio critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for Best Mexican/Mexican-American Album, a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Tejano Album, and the Tejano Music Award for Show Band of the Year in 2007. The project also led to a 21-day Armed Forces Entertainment Tour, where the women performed for U.S. troops overseas, even gracing the Pentagon stage in Washington, D.C.
Las Tres Divas perform “La Cumbia del Oeste” in Dallas, Texas.
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Reflecting on the project, each of the Divas shared their memories with Tejano Nation.
Elida Reyna recalled, “I feel we brought out the best in each other. We each have our signature style and vocal ability which made us a dynamic triple threat. What was meant to be a novelty per se—just a couple of shows—turned into a USO tour in Asia and here in the states. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I’ll always be grateful for the memories. The Divas even introduced me to who would later become my husband, Lalo Reyna, so it truly changed my life.”
Shelly Lares added, “The Las 3 Divas album will always be one of my favorite projects—one I am most proud of. Not only was it an incredible album, but we also made history as the first three women in Tejano music to collaborate, record, and tour together. When we received our Grammy nomination, it proved the caliber of talent we brought to the table. Elida and Stefani are not only icons and legends, but most importantly, my sisters.”
Stefani Montiel shared, “It was such an exciting time for us. Everything came so naturally, and we had so much fun recording. I don’t think anything has been quite like it since. We inspired a generation of fans and younger Tejano artists who still ask if we’ll ever reunite. For me, it will always be one of the most special chapters of my career.”
As the 20th anniversary arrives, the timing feels bittersweet. Reyna is preparing to retire from touring at the end of 2025 after a 34-year career, Lares has already stepped away from the stage after a 40-year career to focus on producing and mentoring new talent with her Shellshock Records 3, while Montiel continues performing and recording after more than three decades in the industry.
The question now lingers: could there be one last celebration of Las 3 Divas? Montiel hinted at the possibility, saying, “If we could make it happen, that would be incredible. I think the people who love the Divas—and those who never got the chance to see us live—would absolutely love the opportunity. That would be super cool.”
Stefani Montiel, Shelly Lares, and Elida Reyna in 2025. | Credit: Mariaelena Villarreal / Tejano Nation
Whether or not a reunion takes place, one thing is certain: Las 3 Divas remains a milestone in Tejano history—proof of the power of collaboration, sisterhood, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated genre.
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