Los Cadetes de Linares, a legendary norteño duo, remains etched in the annals of Mexican music history. Founded by the talented Homero Guerrero and Lupe Tijerina, both hailing from Linares, Nuevo Leon, this group captivated audiences with their heartfelt corridos and distinctive norteño sound. Though their partnership was tragically cut short after eight years with Guerrero’s passing, their extensive discography and memorable film appearances, often titled after their iconic ballads, have solidified their place as pioneers of the genre. Their songs, tales of bravado and poignant narratives, continue to resonate with generations.
Despite numerous impersonator bands attempting to capitalize on their fame, the original Cadetes de Linares possessed an unmistakable musical signature. This unique style profoundly influenced countless conjunto and norteño ensembles, and their songs have been widely covered by other artists. The Frontera Collection boasts approximately 150 authentic Cadetes recordings, showcasing the songwriting prowess of Guerrero and Tijerina, both individually and as collaborators. Their rendition of songs like “El Chubasco,” for example, became definitive, overshadowing numerous other versions by renowned duets such as Los Alegres de Terán and Carlos y José. It’s the tight harmonies and irresistible accordion riffs of Los Cadetes de Linares’ version that audiences remember and cherish, highlighting the magic they brought to each of their songs.
Homero Guerrero de la Cerda, the visionary force behind the band, was born on April 10, 1937, in El Popote, Nuevo Leon. Growing up in a large family of farmworkers in the municipality of Linares, a region famed for its musical heritage, Guerrero’s early dreams of musical expression faced economic hardship. Unable to afford a guitar, the young Guerrero ingeniously crafted one from wood and rubber bands. His musical journey began under the tutelage of his older brother Benjamin, performing at local school events, family gatherings, and in the central square of his hometown, honing the skills that would later define the sound of Los Cadetes De Linares Songs.
At the age of 16, Guerrero ventured to Monterrey, the vibrant heart of norteño music in the 1950s. While working at a paint pigment factory, he immersed himself in the city’s bustling music scene, frequenting popular musician hangouts. This period placed him alongside emerging norteño talents like Salomón Prado, Juan Salazar, and Los Gorriones de Topo Chico, all of whom would contribute to the rich tapestry of Mexican music.
Guerrero’s ambition led him to form his own group in 1960, initially partnering with accordionist Adan Moreno, also from Linares. Moreno’s departure in 1967 due to creative differences marked a turning point. Guerrero then embarked on a journey through the migrant worker routes, from Louisiana to Ohio and Michigan, eventually circling back to South Texas.
In 1968, fate led him to McAllen, a border town, where he found work at Discos Del Valle, a prominent regional record label. Cristóbal García, the label owner, recognized Guerrero’s potential and offered him not only employment but also his first recording opportunity. For his debut album, Guerrero collaborated with his second accordionist, Samuel Zapata. Ramex Records, his later label, recounts that this duo was initially named Los Cadetes de Samuel y Homero, adopting the military term “cadets” reflecting Guerrero’s unfulfilled aspiration to join Mexico’s military academy.
This initial recording venture included songs like “La Menudita”, “Estoy Pagando”, “Las Puertas del Cielo”, and “Ven a Buscarme,” songs that would later become staples in the Los Cadetes de Linares songbook. However, commercial success remained elusive, and within a year, Zapata’s departure due to family matters created another shift in the band’s lineup.
Undeterred, Guerrero moved to Houston, teaming up with his third accordionist, Candelario Villarreal from Matamoros. They performed in local dance halls and nightclubs, attracting the attention of Emilio Garza, the founder of Ramex Records. Garza saw the potential but felt Villarreal’s style wasn’t the right fit for Guerrero. This led to the pivotal partnership with Lupe Tijerina, a highly respected musician whose collaboration with Guerrero would define the sound of Los Cadetes de Linares and produce their most beloved songs.
With both Guerrero and Tijerina originating from Linares, the iconic name Los Cadetes de Linares was finally solidified. 1974 marked their breakthrough year. Ramex Records initially printed only 200 copies of their first record, but it quickly became a sensation. This album featured Tijerina’s corrido, “Los Dos Amigos,” their first major hit, and a song that launched their trajectory to stardom. This marked the true genesis of Los Cadetes de Linares, paving the way for a string of chart-topping hits. Their discography is filled with unforgettable songs such as “El Chubasco,” “Las Tres Tumbas,” “Pueblito,” “Regalo de Reyes,” “Polvo Maldito,” “Cruzando el Puente,” “Pistoleros Famosos,” and countless others, each contributing to their enduring legacy. Beyond their vocal harmonies, Guerrero and Tijerina were also prolific songwriters, co-writing 23 songs, including “El Caballo Jovero,” “El Tejanito,” “Tu Nombre,” and “Cazador de Asesinos.” Guerrero’s individual compositions also enriched their repertoire, notably “Dos Coronas a Mi Madre,” a poignant ballad about a son’s visit to his mother’s grave, showcasing the emotional depth found within Los Cadetes de Linares songs.
By the late 1970s, Los Cadetes de Linares had garnered numerous accolades, gold records, and international recognition through television appearances on shows like Raul Velasco’s Siempre en Domingo. Their presence in classic Mexican films further amplified their musical success, embedding their songs into popular culture.
Tragedy struck at the zenith of their success. On February 19, 1982, Guerrero tragically died in a car accident while traveling between Monterey and Reynosa. Tijerina, deeply affected by his partner’s sudden demise, composed “Adiós, Amigo Del Alma,” a heartfelt bolero tribute that resonated deeply with grieving fans and became another hit song, demonstrating the profound impact of Los Cadetes de Linares songs on their audience.
Despite considering retirement, Tijerina continued Los Cadetes de Linares due to overwhelming public demand. Ernesto Baez, the band’s original drummer, stepped in as lead singer and bajo sexto player. Tijerina and Baez maintained the band’s popularity, performing in sold-out venues and television shows.
Rosendo Cantu replaced Baez in 2006, but this era marked a decline from their peak. A legal dispute arose when Cantu claimed rights to the original duo’s name, leading to business conflicts. Tijerina then formed Los Cadetes de Linares de Lupe Tijerina. Name disputes were not new, as other former members had also created splinter groups using the Los Cadetes de Linares name, prompting Tijerina to emphasize that only two individuals could legitimately claim the “Cadete” title.
Lupe Tijerina’s passing in July 2016 marked the end of an era. He was honored as “El Último Cadete.” On July 4, 2016, Tijerina fell ill during a concert and passed away from heart failure at the age of 69.
The legacy of Los Cadetes de Linares songs continues through a new generation. Yahaira Tijerina, Lupe’s daughter, carries on the musical tradition, showcasing her accordion skills. She also uses social media to protect her father’s legacy from fraudulent promoters. Homero Guerrero Jr. performs as Los KDT’s de Linares, blending norteño with hip-hop influences. Their music videos, including “Mi Niña Bonita,” have garnered millions of views, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the Cadetes sound, adapted for a contemporary audience.
Homero Guerrero Jr. also recorded “Lagrimas de Tu Hijo,” a song dedicated to his father’s memory, included in a Ramex Records tribute album Homenaje A Homero Guerrero…25 Aniversario. This album also featured farewell songs, including Tijerina’s poignant “Adios Amigo del Alma,” a testament to their deep bond.
In “Adios Amigo del Alma,” Tijerina poignantly bids farewell to his lifelong friend and collaborator at his gravesite, reminiscing about their shared journey, encapsulating the heart of Los Cadetes de Linares songs: brotherhood, shared experiences, and enduring emotions.
Yo recuerdo aquellos tiempos que vivimos como hermanos. Las tristezas compartimos, y reímos y lloramos.
Adiós, amigo del alma.
En mi corazón no hay calma; ya me voy a resignar.
— Agustín Gurza
Related Post: My Memorable Meet-and-Greet with Los Cadetes de Linares
