"The Johnny Canales Show" was a television program hosted by Tejano singer Juan José Canales. He is credited with Selena's first live performance at age 13 and for taking Selena y Los Dinos to their first concerts in Mexico. As a radio DJ in 1974, Canales helped launch Ruben Naranjo's career with substantial airplay.
Juan José Canales was born on August 19, 1943. He would later become a prominent figure in Tejano music.
Juan José Canales was born in General Treviño on August 19, 1947.
In 1974, during his time as a radio DJ, Johnny Canales showed significant support for Ruben Naranjo's music by giving it considerable airplay.
Johnny Canales launched "The Johnny Canales Show" in 1983, a program that became instrumental in showcasing emerging bands from Mexico and the United States.
In 1988, "The Johnny Canales Show" expanded its reach by airing on Televisa in Mexico and Univision in the United States, further solidifying its influence on the Tejano music scene.
After a successful run, "The Johnny Canales Show" concluded its broadcast in 1996.
In 1996, Johnny Canales made a significant career move by transitioning to the Telemundo Network.
On November 12, 1997, Johnny Canales participated in an interview for the UTA Center for Mexican American Studies Oral History Project, sharing his experiences and insights.
Johnny Canales secured an agreement to bring his show back to Televisa in 2002. He also resumed touring, performing in the Southwest United States and Mexico.
Johnny Canales filed a lawsuit against Telemundo in 2005 after the network canceled his show. He alleged fraudulent business practices, interference with opportunities, and damage to his reputation.
"The Johnny Canales Show" returned to television in August 2008, airing on TuVision, allowing Canales to continue promoting Tejano music.
Johnny Canales experienced a series of health issues in 2008, including a stroke, leading to a pause in his attempt to film a pilot for a new show.
In recognition of his work with the G.I. Forum, Johnny Canales received the "Veteran of the Year" award from LULAC on May 31, 2009.
November 2009 marked the end of "The Johnny Canales Show" run on TuVision.
On March 29, 2011, Johnny Canales organized and presented a free show at the American Bank Center's Selena Auditorium in Corpus Christi, Texas. The event featured performances by renowned Grammy Award-winning artists and served as a pilot for his efforts to revive his television show.
Johnny Canales passed away on June 13, 2024. His contributions to the Tejano music scene left a lasting impact.