ELIDA'S PLACE IN HISTORY:
Mercedes native joins legends for
D.C.'s Latino Inaugural Ball
January 13, 2009 - 5:19PM
About 15 years ago at the start of her music career, tejano singer Elida Reyna envisioned one day performing in front of droves of adoring fans.
After a number of hits and an upcoming album, Elida Reyna Live, which will be released in March, Reyna said her dream has become a reality.
But even after looking at the highlights of her career, Reyna, a Mercedes native, never thought she would be a part of something as historic as the inauguration of America's first black president.
Reyna will do just that when she heads to Washington, D.C., to be a part of the entertainment lineup for President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration celebration.
Reyna said she was asked to perform at the event by producer David Chavez, organizer of the ALMA awards.
Reyna said it was an offer she could not refuse.
"It's just a bonus," said Reyna of her upcoming performance.
Reyna said she perform alongside a number of famous entertainers, including Pepe Aguilar, Michael Salgado, Gloria Estefan and Jose Feliciano. Reyna and Salgado will represent the tejano music genre during Sunday's Latino Inaugural Ball.
Reyna is expected to perform her biggest hit "Duele" from her 1998 album Eya and as well as a duet performance of "Quedemos solo amigos" with Salgado.
"It's an honor to be part of it," Reyna said. "It's history in the making. I'll get to share that later in life with my children."
Reyna said it took her a moment to let the significance of the invitation sink in after she was invited to perform at the event.
"I was shocked and speechless. I didn't say anything, but after I sat there for a minute, I said, ‘Sure, I would love to do it,'" Reyna said.
Despite being an experienced performer, Reyna said she would be nervous before the event she thinks will be unlike any other she has experienced during her career.
"It will be totally different," she said. "Probably a crowd I've never seen before. It's a little intimidating. I'll just try my best and shine through."
Reyna said she is also looking forward to being near some of the biggest names in the music industry.
"I almost met (Estefan) at the Grammy's," Reyna said. "Hopefully I will that night."
Through 15 years of being in the music business, Reyna said she still can't believe a small-town girl from Mercedes will be a part of American history.
"It's a little nerve racking, but I'm excited to be part of it," Reyna said.
Mike Gonzalez is a reporter for the Mid-Valley Town Crier.