Freddy Fender, born as Baldemar Garza Huerta, was a notable American Tejano, country, and rock and roll musician active during the mid-1970s to early 2000s. Known for his unique blend of genres, he brought a distinct Latino influence into mainstream country and rock music. His most famous hits include "Before the Next Teardrop Falls" and "Wasted Days and Wasted Nights," both of which topped the Billboard charts in 1975. Fender’s multi-genre appeal and success marked him as a significant figure in the crossover of country and Latin American music.