Johnny Canales, Tejano music legend and television host, dies at age 77 – NBC Los Angeles

Tejano music legend Johnny Canales, best known as host of “The Johnny Canales Show,” has died at the age of 77, his family announced Thursday.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Johnny Canales,” said a post on the singer’s Facebook page. A cause of death was not given.

The post continued that the singer was “more than just a beloved husband, father, television host, musician and entertainer; he was a beacon of hope and joy to countless people. His infectious charisma and dedication to promoting Latino music and culture left a profound impact on the world. Johnny’s spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched and the legacy he built.”

“We thank you all for your kind words, love and support during this difficult time. Please keep our family in your thoughts and pray for them. Remember him not with sadness, but with the joy and passion he always brought to our lives.”

Canales’ wife Nora Canales shared a video last May reporting that the singer was in poor health. “He’s fine, he’s stable,” she said.

Canales was credited with introducing Selena Quintanilla to the general public, and she made one of her first live television appearances on his show in the mid-1980s.

According to Billboard, The Johnny Canales Show aired on Univision Network from 1988 to 1996, reaching thousands of Mexican households in the United States. The show also began airing on Telemundo in 1997, where it aired for a few years.

Many remember Canales for his powerful catchphrase: “You got it! Take it away!”

Since the announcement of his death, fans have flooded his Facebook page with memories and condolences for the Tejano legend.

“Thank you to Johnny, he gave a lot of people opportunities in the music industry, he had a beautiful heart and my respect… you did this, take it with you, love,” posted Eric Morales.

Leonala LC Cavazos wrote: “A legend growing up in the 90’s. I woke up on a Sunday, mom had breakfast ready, we watched the Johnny Canales show, my condolences to his family.”

Mexican singer, composer and accordion player Ramón Ayala also posted a photo of Canales on his Instagram account, describing him as a pioneer who discovered new artists and helped them become internationally known personalities.

“His program was seen by thousands of people throughout the United States and northern Mexico. It united our Latin American brothers in the United States and always defended just causes and our immigrants,” Ayala wrote.