By Wise H.R. No. 299 75R8439 JTR-D R E S O L U T I O N 1-1 WHEREAS, On March 9, 1997, noted musician Juan Lopez will 1-2 celebrate his 75th birthday, and this memorable milestone in his 1-3 life is an outstanding opportunity to honor his great contributions 1-4 to the music and culture of Texas; and 1-5 WHEREAS, Born March 8, 1922, in Jackson County, Mr. Lopez 1-6 took up the accordion as a child, and by the age of 18 he and his 1-7 brothers were playing professionally, delighting their friends and 1-8 neighbors with the lively polkas, mazurkas, and redovas that 1-9 characterize conjunto music; and 1-10 WHEREAS, In the 1950s Mr. Lopez came into his own as a 1-11 regional conjunto star, and in addition to making a number of fine 1-12 recordings, he continued to enthrall listeners and dancers across 1-13 the Lone Star State with live performances of his memorable music; 1-14 a staunch traditionalist, he became known as "El Rey de la Redova" 1-15 for his mastery of this musical form; and 1-16 WHEREAS, Mr. Lopez's lifetime of artistry was recognized in 1-17 1989 when he was inducted into the Conjunto Music Hall of Fame, and 1-18 since that time he has continued to weave his distinctive accordion 1-19 magic wherever he performs; and 1-20 WHEREAS, The blend of European and Mexican influences that 1-21 comprise conjunto music is an apt expression of the rich diversity 1-22 of Texan traditions, and Juan Lopez's accomplishments in this 1-23 unique art form have earned him a special place in the musical 1-24 history of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it 2-1 RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 75th Texas 2-2 Legislature hereby congratulate Juan Lopez on the occasion of his 2-3 75th birthday and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued 2-4 success and happiness in the future; and, be it further 2-5 RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 2-6 prepared for Mr. Lopez as an expression of high regard by the Texas 2-7 House of Representatives.