The 22nd annual ¡A Viva Voz! celebration at the Benson Latin American Collection on April 4 was a compelling homage to Latino arts and culture, spotlighting the legendary José María de León Hernández, affectionately known as Little Joe.
Developed by former Benson Director Ann Hartness, ¡A Viva Voz! has long served as a platform to showcase the rich Mexican American/U.S. Latino heritage, fostering community engagement and celebrating cultural vibrancy.
This year’s event paid tribute to Little Joe, an American music legend who has garnered five Grammy awards and was honored with the prestigious 2023 National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. In an interview conducted by US Latina/o Studies Librarian Maribel Falcón, Little Joe discussed his biography, “¡No Llore, Chingón!,” which provides a poignant narrative of his life journey, weaving tales of resilience and triumph amid the struggles faced by Mexican-American communities in Texas.
Born to immigrant parents who fled Mexico during the turmoil of the Mexican Revolution, Hernández and his family initially worked as farm laborers in Texas, confronting hardships and poverty. However, his passion for music ignited at a young age, and he embarked on a musical career that would transcend borders and genres.
Reflecting on his early days performing in meager venues and overcoming challenges, Little Joe addressed the hurdles of limited radio exposure for Spanish-language music, recounting pivotal moments such as the success of his album “Por Un Amor”(1964) and the trials of a grueling tour. His shared experiences of touring internationally, including a memorable trip to Japan, underscored his deep appreciation for cultural exchange and diversity.
Yet, beyond the melodies, Little Joe’s legacy carries a profound message of empowerment and advocacy. Throughout the evening, Little Joe conveyed a powerful message of resilience and solidarity, urging the audience to confront racism and injustice through activism and civic engagement.
As he performed an impromptu song encouraging accountability and participation in the democratic process, he encouraged all to embrace their heritage, amplify their voices, and stand united in the pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.
Watch the event: