Tejano singer and music host who introduced Selena to South Texas, Johnny Canales, Dies

 

Tejano singer and longtime television music show host Johnny Canales died this week at age 77.  Born in Mexico, Canales was famous for his catchphrase "Take it away" while hosting a televised music show in Corpus Christi, Texas, during the 1980s and 1990s.

Canales' family confirmed his death in a statement posted earlier this week on the Johnny and Nora Canales Show Facebook page. "He was more than just a beloved husband, father, TV host, musician, and entertainer; he was a beacon of hope and joy for countless people," according to the statement. "His infectious charisma and dedication to promoting Latino music and culture left a large mark on the world."

Canales, who was born in Mexico, was known by the catchphrase "Take it away" as he hosted a televised music show in Corpus Christi, Texas, in the 1980s and 1990s.  He is credited with launching the career of Tejano superstar Selena on the show and was portrayed by actor Luis Bordonada in the Netflix series "Selena: The Series." At its height, the syndicated show was seen across the United States, Mexico and Latin America.

KJ