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Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate Temple, Texas music legend Joe DeLeon ``Little Joe'' Hernandez, an NEA National Heritage Fellowship honoree for 2023. The ``King of the Brown Sound,'' he helped pioneer Tejano music, a uniquely American synthesis of Mexican and European styles that reflects the resilient spirit of the people and the land in which they live.

Little Joe is a Texas-style success story Born in poverty to a family of cotton pickers, he took up the trade as a child before finding success as a musician. Joe built his reputation on his live performances in the neon-and-smoke wonderland of bailes grandes, the big public dances that are the essence of Chicano social life throughout the Southwest With many classic albums and beloved songs in his catalogue, he continues touring the world, trailblazing, looking forward to new challenges, breaking down cultural and musical barriers, and innovating his musical style.

Folk music is the song of the people, their struggles, tragedies, and triumphs. While he's won multiple Grammys and countless civic awards, Joe remains a humble and steadfast champion of equality and justice, using his artistry to bring audiences together for a more harmonious world His performances are crowd-pleasing showcases of his diverse influences, inspired songwriting, and stellar musicianship that transform into cultural and political celebrations.

Little Joe Hernandez is a most deserving recipient of an NEA National Heritage Fellowship, our Nation's highest honor in folk and traditional arts He remains a vital part of our Nation's rich artistic tradition and has made indelible contributions to a music that speaks to a uniquely American experience. I proudly celebrate his life, career, and contributions and wish him nothing but the best for the future.

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