5 Essential Chicano Soul Tracks Every San Antonian Should Know By Heart

***This article was originally published in print and online as "Conjunto Soul" and not "Chicano Soul." We've corrected it online and the Current regrets the error***

To the outsider, and even the undiscerning local, San Antonio doesn’t scream R&B and soul mecca. Since the advent of tejano in the 1970s (which flourished into the ’90s with Selena at the helm), San Antonio would be known as a hot spot in the genre – an amalgamation of polka, pop, rock, R&B, conjunto, mariachi, and ranchera.

And living in such a hot spot means you should know the top hits that make the genre what it is. If you don't already know these tracks, take a listen and fall in love with the sounds of San Antonio.

Dimas III & The Royal Jesters
“You’ve Succeeded”
Clown Records
Something truly magical happens when this 45 drops. The horns hit, the harmonies hit and Dimas comes out with, “if you want to see me sad, you’ve succeeded.” This highly collectible slice of Chicano Soul is of the highest order and quality. Holy grail status = firme.


Joe Jama & The Royal Jesters
“Girl I Can't Forget”
Clown Records
The Royal Jesters featured a few legendary singers throughout the band’s extensive recording history. “Girl I Can’t Forget” features Joe Jama in fine form on this seriously hot tear-jerker.