The master of the Tex-Mex accordion Leonardo "Flaco" Jimenez, whose tradition-drenched sound came to define conjunto or Tejano music of South Texas, has died. Throughout a career that spanned more than 70 years, he carried that sound to an international audience through his work with megastars across genres. He was 86 years old.

A statement posted by his family on Jimenez's official Facebook page did not provide a cause of death.

"It is with great sadness that we share tonight the loss of our father, Flaco Jimenez," the statement reads. "He was surrounded by his loved ones and will be missed immensely. Thank you to all of his fans and friends — those who cherished his music. And a big thank you for all of the memories. His legacy will live on through his music and all of his fans.

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