Mexican Regional Music Community Mourns Founding Star Manolo Morales

Mexico City, August 29, 2025 - The world of Mexican regional music is in mourning today following the death of Manolo Morales, the 72-year-old founding member of the legendary norteño group “Los Rieleros del Norte.” Tributes poured in across social media and press outlets as fans, fellow artists, and industry figures paid homage to his pioneering contributions to the genre.

Morales passed away on August 28, 2025, at his home in Pecos, Texas, after a storied career that spanned over four decades. Renowned for blending traditional norteño instrumentation-accordion and bajo sexto-with heartfelt storytelling, he helped define the sound that would captivate audiences across Mexico and the United States.

In an official statement released today, Los Rieleros del Norte expressed their deep sorrow: “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our dear founder and brother, Manolo Morales. His vision and passion shaped our music and lives forever. His legacy will live on in every note we play.”

Prominent norteño acts, including Los Huracanes del Norte and El Primo Manolo y Sus Rieleros, shared messages of condolence:

• Los Huracanes del Norte: “Manolo was a true innovator whose spirit and music inspired us all. We grieve the loss of a friend and mentor.”
• El Primo Manolo y Sus Rieleros: “His legacy will continue on stage and in our hearts. We will honor him with every performance.”

A public memorial service is scheduled for August 31 at the Santa Rosa De Lima Catholic Church in Pecos, Texas, with a live webcast for fans unable to attend in person. Funeral arrangements include a procession along the historic Pecos railroad tracks-a nod to Morales’s nickname, “El Rielero Mayor” (The Chief Railroader).

Throughout his life, Morales championed the voices of working-class communities, writing and performing songs about everyday struggles and triumphs. Industry analysts attribute a 22% increase in regional Mexican music streaming over the past year, a resurgence partly credited to Morales’s enduring influence on new artists and audiences.

As the regional Mexican music community observes a day of mourning, fans are encouraged to share their favorite Morales recordings and memories on social media using #AdiósRieleroMayor. His songs, filled with the rhythms of his Chihuahuan heritage and the spirit of the railroad, will continue to resonate for generations to come.