Freddy Fender inducted into National Recording Registry

SAN BENITO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — San Benito native Freddy Fender has been inducted into the National Recording Registry.

Fender was inducted for his 1974 hit song, "Before the Next Teardrop Falls".

The country song reached the top spot on the Billboard Pop and Country Charts at the time of its release.

"Freddy Fender was an outstanding musician who left a legacy of musical excellence. With his nomination, the National Recording Registry affirms what South Texans always knew Tejano music is American music. Freddy Fender makes us even prouder to be where we're from," said U.S. Rep Vicente Gonzalez.

Fender's song was selected alongside Elton John's "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", Chicago's debut "Chicago Transit Authority," and the original cast recording of Broadway's "Hamilton".