La Fiebre | Courtesy photo
La Fiebre, known as the “Pride of Pasadena,” shared an emotional announcement on social media Tuesday (October 21), revealing that longtime member Julian Gonzalez will be departing the band after finishing out the year.
“We have a special announcement to make… It’s time to say goodbye and thank you!” the band wrote. “We want to thank Julian Gonzalez for his contributions to La Fiebre. We’re grateful for everything we experienced over the years together. We did not want to see you leave, but we understand that you have other plans.”
The two-time Latin Grammy nominated band continued by expressing their appreciation for Gonzalez’s professionalism and musicianship.
“Once again, thanks a million for your true professionalism & your musicianship throughout your time with us! We wish you the best with your future endeavors! God bless you! Love you Brother!”
Julian Gonzalez | Courtesy photo
Gonzalez confirmed the news and shared his heartfelt message with fans, reflecting on more than two decades as part of La Fiebre.
“Yes, it’s true — after 21 years I will be finishing out this year with La Fiebre,” Gonzalez said. “It’s just time for something else.”
Gonzalez expressed deep gratitude toward his bandmates and supporters for an incredible musical journey.
“Thank you to La Fiebre for giving me the opportunity to share my talents with you. We’ve accomplished a lot in that time — four albums, two Latin Grammy nominations, Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame, Tejano Gold Song of the Year, Houston Tejano Legend, and numerous other accolades.”
He also shared his appreciation for the fans who have supported him through the years.
“To all of the fans I have met along the way, thank you for your support! I love playing music and seeing the crowd dance and sing along! I’m sure I’ll still be doing it somewhere at some point. I don’t exactly have anything planned as far as music goes, so I’m anxious to see what happens next. I know God will guide me and put me where I should be. So if anyone needs an accordion player, reach out and let’s talk. There’s still a few shows left for me, so come on out! See y’all soon.”
Fans were also encouraged to show their support as Gonzalez completes his final shows with the group this year. Meanwhile, La Fiebre announced they are now auditioning for a new musician to fill the open position — ideally someone local who can play both accordion and keyboards, though they are open to separate auditions for each role.
The message concluded with a tease for what’s next: “Finally, stay tuned for more announcements coming soon!!!”
The announcement comes at a pivotal time for La Fiebre, who recently released their highly anticipated new album, RAÍCES — a heartfelt tribute to their beginnings, their fans, and the city where it all started, Pasadena, Texas. Arriving just in time for the band’s 40th anniversary, the album captures the passion and pride that have defined La Fiebre for four decades.
Led by founding members Rudy Rocha, and Joe Angel Reynosa, along with Luis Ayala, the current lineup — which includes Gonzalez, Jonas Flores, Joe Lara, and dynamic vocalist J Angel Cantu — showcases the group’s enduring chemistry and signature Tejano sound.
RAÍCES is more than just a record; it’s a reflection of La Fiebre’s journey, blending nostalgia with new energy and reaffirming their legacy as trailblazers in Tejano music.
Formed in Pasadena, Texas, in the mid-1980s, La Fiebre quickly became one of Tejano’s most influential acts with their fusion of Tejano, rock, and big band elements. Their powerful horns, heartfelt lyrics, and high-energy performances helped define a generation, earning them chart-topping hits like “Borracho de Besos,” “El Amor Se Acaba,” and “Eres Mi Primer Amor.”
As La Fiebre continues their 40th Anniversary Tour, fans can expect to hear the hits they love — plus a new wave of songs from RAÍCES that celebrate where the band has been and where they’re headed next.
Even as one chapter closes with Julian Gonzalez’s departure, La Fiebre’s flame burns brighter than ever — a testament to their enduring legacy as true icons of Tejano music.
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