Subtitles section
Repeat sentence
Subtitles mode
Full screen
Previous
Next
x 1.0
Playback speed
More

The life of Lydia Mendoza, the 1st queen of Tejano music

Video vocabulary

hide

Copy vocabulary

US / haɪd /

UK / haɪd /

A1
  • noun
  • The skin of an animal used for making leather
  • verb
  • To go to, or put a thing where it can't be found

gift

Copy vocabulary

US / gɪft /

UK / ɡɪft /

A2
  • noun
  • Something given to another for a reason; present
  • Special skill or natural ability to do something

wave

Copy vocabulary

US / weɪv /

UK / wev /

A2
  • noun
  • Movement of sound, air or energy
  • Deep and strong emotion that is suddenly felt
  • Slightly curved shape in hair
  • Frequency of movement of objects together
  • Up and down movement of water in a lake or sea
  • Signal with your hand to say hello or goodbye
  • verb
  • To cause to move side to side or back and forth
  • To swing back and forth as a result of the wind
  • To move your hand or arm to say hello or goodbye

poor

Copy vocabulary

US / pʊə(r) /

UK / pʊr /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Inferior; below the normal standard
  • Deserving of pity or sympathy
  • Without money; not rich

back

Copy vocabulary

US / bæk /

UK / bæk /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Farthest from the front e.g. in a classroom
  • adverb
  • Have returned to a place you were before
  • noun
  • The part of a chair that the upper body leans upon
  • Location at the rear of something
  • The reverse of side something
  • Area on the rear of your body
  • verb
  • To bet money on something
  • To go backwards in a car
  • To support and encourage someone or some cause

culture

Copy vocabulary

US / 'kʌltʃə(r) /

UK / ˈkʌltʃɚ /

A2
  • noun
  • Beliefs and customs of a particular group

and

Copy vocabulary

US / ənd /

UK / ənd, ən,ænd /

A1
  • conjunction
  • Used to refer to two or more things
  • Plus; in addition; on top of that
  • Used to introduce an action that follows another

keep

Copy vocabulary

US / ki:p /

UK / kip /

A1
  • noun
  • Large, strong tower in the middle of a castle
  • Money spent on you so you can live in a place
  • verb
  • To continue doing something; not to stop
  • To stop balls going in a goal in sports
  • To not give back or return something
  • (Of food) to not spoil or not rot
  • To take possession of something to own, e.g. a pet
  • To have and continue to hold something
  • To do something that you have promised or agreed
  • To stay in a certain place or condition
  • To maintain the rules

forever

Copy vocabulary

US / fər'evə(r) /

UK / fɔrˈɛvɚ, fə- /

B1
  • adverb
  • For all future time; in the future

gutierrez

Copy vocabulary

US / guˈtjɛrɛz /

UK / /

A1

rest

Copy vocabulary

US / rest /

UK / rɛst /

A1
  • noun
  • Time when one relaxes, sleeps, or is inactive
  • State in which there is a lack of motion
  • Part of something remaining after some was used
  • verb
  • To stop working or avoid activity to recover
  • (Of dead person) to lie in a grave
  • To lean, support or place something against
  • To not be tired because you had enough sleep

polka

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈpɒlkə /

UK / ˈpoʊlkə /

C2
  • noun
  • Couples' dance with steps and a hop in fast time

mandolin

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈmændəlɪn /

UK / ˌmændəˈlɪn, ˈmændlɪn /

C2
  • noun
  • Stringed instrument related to the lute

over

Copy vocabulary

US / 'əʊvə(r) /

UK / ˈovɚ /

A1
  • adverb
  • Finished; no longer happening
  • Towards the ground/away from a standing position
  • noun
  • A set of six consecutive balls bowled in cricket
  • other
  • Finished
  • preposition
  • Showing the relation when a thing is above another
  • On or covering something
  • Above or across something
  • More than you need
  • From one side to the other
  • In the direction of; toward

form

Copy vocabulary

US / fɔ:m /

UK / fɔrm /

A1
  • noun
  • Sports team or person's current winning record
  • Document you complete when making an application
  • Visible shape or style; type; kind
  • verb
  • To organize something such as a club or group
  • To develop; to come into a shape or substance
  • To make something into a particular shape

houston

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈhju:stən /

UK / ˈhjustən /

A1
  • proper noun
  • An inland port of Texas, linked to the Gulf of Mexico by the Houston Ship Canal; population 2,242,19

national

Copy vocabulary

US / 'næʃnəl /

UK / ˈnæʃənəl, ˈnæʃnəl /

A2
  • adjecitve
  • Concerning a nation as a whole
  • noun
  • A person of a particular country

from

Copy vocabulary

US / frəm /

UK / frʌm, frɑm,frəm /

A1
  • preposition
  • Starting at a particular place, time or level

along

Copy vocabulary

US / əˈlɒŋ /

UK / əˈlɔ:ŋ /

A1
  • adverb
  • As a companion; taken with someone
  • preposition
  • At a point on a line

put

Copy vocabulary

US / pʊt /

UK / pʊt /

A1
  • phrasal verb
  • to make a light stop shining by pressing or moving a switch
  • verb
  • To move or place a thing in a particular position
  • To rate something in importance or value
  • To write or say something in a certain manner

whether

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈweðə(r) /

UK / ˈhwɛðɚ, ˈwɛð- /

A1
  • conjunction
  • If something will happen or not

broadcaster

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈbrɔːdkɑːstə(r) /

UK / ˈbrɔːdkæstər /

A2
  • noun
  • Someone who broadcasts on radio or television

pioneer

Copy vocabulary

US / ˌpaɪəˈnɪə(r) /

UK / ˌpaɪəˈnɪr /

B1
  • noun
  • Person exploring a new place or field of endeavor
  • verb
  • To begin or discover something new
  • To take part in the development of something new

now

Copy vocabulary

US / naʊ /

UK / naʊ /

A1
  • adverb
  • At the present time or moment
  • Right away or in the next possible moment
  • Used to refer to something that just happened
  • Time between the present and a moment in the past
  • conjunction
  • Resulting from or because of something

perform

Copy vocabulary

US / pə'fɔ:m /

UK / pɚˈfɔrm /

A1
  • verb
  • To carry out an action well or successfully
  • To entertain an audience by dancing, singing etc.

host

Copy vocabulary

US / həʊst /

UK / host /

A2
  • noun
  • Mass; a great number
  • Person who entertains guests
  • Plant or animal on or in which parasites live
  • Presenter on a television or radio program
  • verb
  • To be the sponsor of an event, e.g. the Olympics
  • To lead or start a party, program, or other event
  • To lead a TV or radio show as the announcer

whole

Copy vocabulary

US / həul /

UK / hol /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Complete or full; all of
  • Being in a good condition
  • noun
  • Complete amount or sum; total

our

Copy vocabulary

US / 'aʊə(r) /

UK / aʊr /

A1
  • determiner
  • Belonging to us

not

Copy vocabulary

US / nɒt /

UK / nɑt /

A1
  • adverb
  • Word indicating the negative
  • (Used to form the negative of verbs)

mother

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈmʌðə(r) /

UK / ˈmʌðɚ /

A1
  • noun
  • Female who has a child or children; female parent
  • verb
  • To take care of someone as if they were your child

bolero

Copy vocabulary

US / bəˈleərəʊ /

UK / bəˈleroʊ /

C2
  • noun
  • Short jacket; worn mostly by women

record

Copy vocabulary

US / 'rekɔ:d /

UK / ˈrekərd /

A1
  • noun
  • Highest or most extreme level achieved
  • Round plastic disc on which music has been stored
  • History of a person's past actions or achievements
  • verb
  • To indicate a temperature, speed, etc.; register
  • To write down or say what happened
  • To put music, sounds onto a device to store it

oral

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈɔ:rəl /

UK / ˈɔrəl /

B1
  • adjecitve
  • Concerning the mouth
  • Spoken text

heritage

Copy vocabulary

US / 'herɪtɪdʒ /

UK / ˈhɛrɪtɪdʒ /

B1
  • noun
  • Traditional beliefs or customs of a culture

tune

Copy vocabulary

US / tju:n /

UK / tun, tjun /

A2
  • noun
  • Group of musical notes that make a pleasant sound
  • verb
  • To make adjustments to equipment to make it better
  • To adjust to be at the right musical pitch
  • To modify how something operates, looks, e.g. car

hat

Copy vocabulary

US / hæt /

UK / hæt /

A1
  • noun
  • Item of clothing worn on your head

hispanic

Copy vocabulary

US / hɪˈspænɪk /

UK / hɪˈspænɪk /

B2
  • adjecitve
  • Connected with Spanish-speaking culture

feeling

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈfi:lɪŋ /

UK / ˈfilɪŋ /

A1
  • noun
  • Sensation or emotion you experience
  • verb
  • To be aware of or experience an emotion, sensation
  • To sense through direct contact; touch

become

Copy vocabulary

US / bɪ'kʌm /

UK / bɪˈkʌm /

A1
  • verb
  • To begin to be; grow to be; develop into
  • To be suitable for a particular job or role

medal

Copy vocabulary

US / 'medl /

UK / ˈmɛdl /

B1
  • noun
  • Metal award, often round, usually for courage

life

Copy vocabulary

US / laɪf /

UK / laɪf /

A1
  • noun
  • All the living things e.g. animals, plants, humans
  • Period of time things live, from birth to death

give

Copy vocabulary

US / ɡɪv /

UK / ɡɪv /

A1
  • noun
  • Degree of flexibility in something, a material
  • verb
  • To hand over or present something to someone
  • To cause someone to have or experience something

but

Copy vocabulary

US / bət /

UK / bʌt,bət /

A1
  • conjunction
  • Used before you say something different, opposite

artistry

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ɑ:tɪstrɪ /

UK / 'ɑ:rtɪstrɪ /

A1
  • noun
  • A superior skill you can learn by study, practice

see

Copy vocabulary

US / si: /

UK / si /

A1
  • verb
  • To go on a date with someone
  • To predict whether something is, or will be true
  • To understand what someone says
  • To use your eyes to look at something
  • To visit a place often for sightseeing or pleasure
  • To visit or meet with someone
  • To find out by waiting or looking
  • To watch (a game, movie or TV show)

art

Copy vocabulary

US / ɑ:t /

UK / ɑrt /

A1
  • noun
  • Creative skill using the imagination e.g. painting
  • A skill or talent you have

hear

Copy vocabulary

US / hɪə(r) /

UK / hɪr /

A1
  • verb
  • To be aware of sound; to perceive with the ear
  • To be told or find out information or facts
  • To consider or listen to a court case

history

Copy vocabulary

US / 'hɪstrɪ /

UK / ˈhɪstəri /

A2
  • noun
  • Established pattern or record
  • Study of past events as an academic subject

draw

Copy vocabulary

US / drɔ: /

UK / drɔ /

A1
  • noun
  • Something that attracts people to visit a place
  • A lottery or prize
  • Result of a game, contest where the score is equal
  • verb
  • To attract attention to someone or something
  • To get closer to or approach something or someone
  • To influence a person's involvement in something
  • To move an object by pulling
  • To create an image using pen or pencil and paper
  • To take one thing out of a container, etc.
  • (Of 2 teams) to finish a game with the same score

decade

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈdekeɪd /

UK / ˈdɛkˌed, dɛˈked /

B1
  • noun
  • Period of 10 years

with

Copy vocabulary

US / wɪð /

UK / wɪð, wɪθ /

A1
  • preposition
  • As an employee of a certain company
  • Against something or someone
  • By using something as a means
  • Due to; because of
  • Including
  • Possessing as a feature
  • Related to
  • (Of the manner/attitude by which you do something)
  • Used to express that people or things are together

his

Copy vocabulary

US / hɪz /

UK / hɪz /

A1
  • pronoun
  • Something belonging to a male person

hundred

Copy vocabulary

US / 'hʌndrəd /

UK / ˈhʌndrɪd /

A1
  • number
  • 100

month

Copy vocabulary

US / mʌnθ /

UK / mʌnθ /

A1
  • noun
  • One of 12 28-31 day periods in the year

without

Copy vocabulary

US / wɪˈðaʊt /

UK / wɪðˈaʊt, wɪθ- /

A1
  • preposition
  • Not with; not having

part

Copy vocabulary

US / pɑ:t /

UK / pɑ:rt /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • To some degree; half; not fully
  • noun
  • Division of a book
  • Ratio of something, e.g. 3 of gin, 1 of tonic
  • A line in a person's hair, made with a comb
  • Character an actor plays on stage, movie, or TV
  • Some, but not all of a specific thing
  • Role in causing something to happen
  • verb
  • To make a line in a person's hair, by using a comb
  • To move two things apart creating a space
  • To leave someone, or to break off a relationship

six

Copy vocabulary

US / sɪks /

UK / sɪks /

A1
  • number
  • 6

have

Copy vocabulary

US / həv /

UK / hæv /

A1
  • verb
  • To drink, smoke, eat or use something
  • To experience the effects of something
  • To organize an event, or join in an activity
  • To own, possess, or hold something
  • To cause to happen or produce a particular effect

before

Copy vocabulary

US / bɪˈfɔ:(r) /

UK / bɪˈfɔr,-ˈfor /

A1
  • adverb
  • At a time earlier than the present; previously
  • conjunction
  • In advance of something happening
  • preposition
  • In front of someone or something

station

Copy vocabulary

US / 'steɪʃn /

UK / ˈsteʃən /

A1
  • noun
  • Building, area, place used for a specific reason
  • A person's place in society
  • Place where you can catch a train or a bus
  • Company that broadcasts radio or TV programs
  • verb
  • (Army) to be posted to a place to perform duties
  • To put a person in a certain place or position

teenager

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈti:neɪdʒə(r) /

UK / ˈtinˌedʒɚ /

A2
  • noun
  • Person between the ages of 13 and 19

public

Copy vocabulary

US / 'pʌblɪk /

UK / ˈpʌblɪk /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Owned by the government
  • Concerning society in general
  • Being available or accessible to people in general
  • Known or able to be known by all people

moment

Copy vocabulary

US / 'məʊmənt /

UK / 'moʊmənt /

A1
  • noun
  • Very short or brief period of time
  • A particular period in time

know

Copy vocabulary

US / nəʊ /

UK / noʊ /

A1
  • verb
  • To be familiar with a person or place, thing
  • To feel sure or be convinced about something
  • To discover or be aware of something
  • To be able to distinguish
  • To have knowledge of things

could

Copy vocabulary

US / kəd /

UK / kʊd /

A1
  • other
  • Past form of 'can' to mean have ability
  • Used to ask for something politely, or to offer

bear

Copy vocabulary

US / bɛː /

UK / bɛr /

A2
  • noun
  • Large brown animal with fur that lives in forests
  • Someone who expects stock market to fall
  • verb
  • To accept (responsibilities or duties)
  • To give birth to a child; to produce fruit
  • To accept or suffer the weight of difficulties
  • To keep moving left or right while going forward
  • To show (sign of something)
  • To support the weight of something, e.g. a bridge

remember

Copy vocabulary

US / rɪ'membə(r) /

UK / rɪˈmɛmbɚ /

A1
  • verb
  • To give someone a gift, e.g. birthday, wedding
  • To hold a thought in your mind to not forget it
  • To bring a previous image or idea to your mind

performer

Copy vocabulary

US / pəˈfɔ:mə(r) /

UK / pərˈfɔ:rmə(r) /

A2
  • noun
  • Someone who completes a task well
  • Actor, musician, dancer, etc. who entertains

end

Copy vocabulary

US / end /

UK / ɛnd /

A1
  • noun
  • The point where a process or activity stops
  • A point that marks the limit of something; finish
  • Goal or desired result
  • The tip, edge or limit of something
  • verb
  • To be the last part of something

bluebird

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈblu:bɜ:d /

UK / ˈblu:bɜ:rd /

C2
  • noun
  • Blue North American songbird

tell

Copy vocabulary

US / tel /

UK / tɛl /

A1
  • verb
  • To (strongly) advise a person to do something
  • To be able to guess
  • To say or communicate information to someone
  • To inform, but without speaking; indicate
  • To have a negative effect on someone
  • To order someone to do something; command
  • To recognize something based on certain signs
  • To report something to an authority
  • To explain something or teach someone something

restaurant

Copy vocabulary

US / 'restrɒnt /

UK / ˈrɛstərənt, -təˌrɑnt /

A1
  • noun
  • Place where you can order, buy and eat a meal

hit

Copy vocabulary

US / hɪt /

UK / hɪt /

A1
  • noun
  • A planned killing, usually for money
  • Song, movie etc. that is successful
  • When someone strikes someone or something
  • Time when a player makes contact with the ball
  • Time when a website is accessed
  • verb
  • To have a negative impact on a person/place/thing
  • To press something, such as a button or switch
  • To suddenly realize the importance of something
  • To move your hand, a bat, etc. against with force
  • To fight, attack or damage something or someone
  • To arrive at a specific place, level, or goal
  • To make contact with the ball in a game or sport

guest

Copy vocabulary

US / ɡest /

UK / ɡɛst /

A2
  • adjecitve
  • Referring to people visiting or staying at a place
  • noun
  • Person invited to visit or stay in someone's home
  • Paying customer at a hotel or restaurant

bill

Copy vocabulary

US / bɪl /

UK / bɪl /

A2
  • noun
  • Plan for a new law being discussed by a government
  • Sign or poster advertising something
  • Paper money; a bank note
  • Piece of paper showing what you have to pay
  • Hard, often pointed part of a bird's mouth
  • Person's name
  • verb
  • To request payment by handing over an invoice

president

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈprezɪdənt /

UK / ˈprɛzɪdənt,-ˌdɛnt /

A2
  • noun
  • Person in charge of a country, or organization

present

Copy vocabulary

US / 'preznt /

UK / ˈprɛznt /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Being in attendance; being there; having turned up
  • noun
  • Gift
  • Verb tense indicating an action is happening now
  • Current time; now
  • verb
  • To introduce someone to others
  • To host a program on television or radio
  • To give a speech or presentation
  • To show something to someone who will examine it
  • To appear or happen
  • To give an award or prize to someone

first

Copy vocabulary

US / fɜ:st /

UK / fɚst /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • 1st; Coming before all others in time or place
  • noun
  • Something that has not happened before
  • Position of the winner of a competition

style

Copy vocabulary

US / staɪl /

UK / staɪl /

A1
  • noun
  • The (tasteful) way something is designed or done
  • verb
  • To shape or design something in a certain way

sing

Copy vocabulary

US / sɪŋ /

UK / sɪŋ /

A1
  • verb
  • To make musical sounds with your voice

recall

Copy vocabulary

US / rɪˈkɔ:l /

UK / rɪˈkɔl /

A2
  • noun
  • (Company) asking for the return of faulty goods
  • Act of remembering events or details of the past
  • verb
  • (Company) to ask for the return of faulty goods
  • To remember events or details of the past

listener

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈlɪsənə(r) /

UK / ˈlɪsənər /

A1
  • noun
  • Someone who listens

then

Copy vocabulary

US / ðen /

UK / ðɛn /

A1
  • adverb
  • A time that is not now
  • Following another thing in time or arrangement
  • Following on reasonably from what was just stated
  • At that time, not now

during

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈdjʊərɪŋ /

UK / ˈdʊrɪŋ, ˈdjʊr- /

A1
  • preposition
  • At some point in the course of an event or thing

honor

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ɒnə(r) /

UK / ˈɑnɚ /

B2
  • noun
  • Award you get for doing well; prize, title, etc.
  • Chance to do something special; privilege
  • Respect given to someone who is admired
  • Good standing a person has in a community
  • verb
  • To fulfill an agreement
  • To give an award to someone
  • To respect someone or something

family

Copy vocabulary

US / 'fæməlɪ /

UK / ˈfæmli /

A1
  • noun
  • Close group of people or organizations
  • A group of people who are related through blood
  • Group of related plants or animals

she

Copy vocabulary

US / ʃɪ /

UK / ʃi /

A1
  • pronoun
  • Female person or animal mentioned before
  • (Refers to female person mentioned before)

musical

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈmju:zɪkl /

UK / ˈmju:zɪkl /

A2
  • adjecitve
  • Having a pleasant sound like music
  • Having skill or being gifted in music
  • noun
  • Play or movie set to music

mexican

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈmeksɪkən /

UK / ˈmɛksɪkən /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Concerning the culture and people of Mexico
  • noun
  • Person from Mexico

storey

Copy vocabulary

US / 'stɔ:rɪ /

UK / ˈstɔri, ˈstori /

B1
  • noun
  • One of many floors or levels in a building

what

Copy vocabulary

US / wɒt /

UK / hwɑt, hwʌt, wɔt, wʌt,hwət, wət /

A1
  • pronoun
  • Thing or things that; the same kind as
  • Used to emphasize something you are about to say
  • adjecitve
  • Used to refer to a particular amount, or number
  • Used to place emphasis on a particular quality
  • adverb
  • To a certain degree
  • determiner
  • Question words used for asking for information
  • exclamation
  • Used to express excitement, shock, or surprise
  • Used to ask people to repeat something they said

week

Copy vocabulary

US / wi:k /

UK / wik /

A1
  • noun
  • Period of seven days from Sunday to Saturday

that

Copy vocabulary

US / ðæt /

UK / ðæt, ðət /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • The person or thing being talked about
  • Used to identify something both the speakers know
  • adverb
  • Used to reinforce adjectives and adverbs
  • To such a degree
  • conjunction
  • Used to connect a noun clause
  • Used to introduce an adverbial clause
  • Used to introduce a noun clause
  • determiner
  • Used as a noun to refer to something
  • pronoun
  • Referring an object far away
  • Used to refer to the relative pronoun ‘which’

san

Copy vocabulary

US / /

UK / /

A1
  • adjective
  • Relating to the San or their languages.
  • noun
  • A member of the aboriginal peoples of southern Africa commonly called Bushmen.
  • The group of Khoisan languages spoken by the San.

like

Copy vocabulary

US / laɪk /

UK / laɪk /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Being equal in status or kind to something else
  • Similar; the same
  • adverb
  • For example
  • preposition
  • Used as a filler; used to ad emphasis
  • In a way similar to the way something is done
  • Such as; for example
  • verb
  • To want to
  • To find something pleasing; to prefer something

eventually

Copy vocabulary

US / ɪˈventʃuəli /

UK / ɪˈvɛntʃuəli /

A2
  • adverb
  • After a long time; after many attempts; in the end

will

Copy vocabulary

US / wɪl /

UK / wɪl /

A1
  • noun
  • Desire or choice of someone
  • Document saying who gets your money when you die
  • Strong desire to do something; determination
  • Desire to do something; strong wish to do
  • other
  • Used with verbs to express the future
  • verb
  • To leave property to someone after your death
  • To use mental effort to make something happen
  • Am (is, are) likely to do
  • To influence someone to do something
  • To make something happen by strongly wanting it

texas

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈtɛksəs /

UK / ˈtɛksəs /

A1
  • other
  • The second largest state; located in southwestern United States on the Gulf of Mexico

musician

Copy vocabulary

US / mjuˈzɪʃn /

UK / mjuˈzɪʃən /

A1
  • noun
  • Person who writes, sings, or plays music, as a job

many

Copy vocabulary

US / 'menɪ /

UK / ˈmɛni /

A1
  • determiner
  • Used to refer a large number of things

after

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ɑ:ftə(r) /

UK / ˈæftɚ /

A1
  • adverb
  • Later than another time, or behind something
  • conjunction
  • Following something before
  • preposition
  • When an event happened or time has passed

memory

Copy vocabulary

US / 'memərɪ /

UK / ˈmɛməri /

A2
  • noun
  • Ability of the mind to call back past things
  • Space for the storage of information on a computer
  • Something that has been remembered

side

Copy vocabulary

US / saɪd /

UK / saɪd /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • In addition to the central or most important thing
  • Next to, or very close to, the right or left of
  • noun
  • Position or opinion that is opposite to another
  • Right or left part of a person's body
  • Feature of someone's personality
  • Straight edge of an object
  • One of two or more groups fighting each other
  • verb
  • To decide to agree with one point, not the other

nickname

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈnɪkneɪm /

UK / ˈnɪkˌnem /

B2
  • noun
  • Name given by friends or family
  • verb
  • To give someone an informal name or title

market

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈmɑ:kɪt /

UK / ˈmɑ:rkɪt /

A1
  • noun
  • Need or demand for a particular product or service
  • Area or region where a certain product is sold
  • Public event where people sell goods on tables
  • Institution where stocks are bought and sold
  • verb
  • To publicize products to get you to buy; advertise

feel

Copy vocabulary

US / fi:l /

UK / fil /

A1
  • verb
  • To be aware of or experience an emotion, sensation
  • To sense through direct contact; touch

day

Copy vocabulary

US / deɪ /

UK / de /

A1
  • noun
  • A period of 24 hours beginning at midnight
  • The period of time when it is light outside
  • Person's name

new

Copy vocabulary

US / nju: /

UK / nu, nju /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Not old, recently born, built or made
  • Being or doing something for the first time
  • Not felt, seen or known previously
  • Having been recently bought or obtained

performance

Copy vocabulary

US / pə'fɔ:məns /

UK / pɚˈfɔrməns /

A2
  • noun
  • Act of doing something
  • Activity done to entertain an audience

latino

Copy vocabulary

US / læ'ti:nəʊ /

UK / læ'ti:noʊ /

C2
  • noun
  • Person with a Spanish-speaking background

album

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ælbəm /

UK / ˈælbəm /

A2
  • noun
  • Book with a collection of photographs or pictures

true

Copy vocabulary

US / tru: /

UK / tru: /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Agreeing with the facts; not false; real or actual

contract

Copy vocabulary

US / 'kɒntrækt /

UK / 'kɑ:ntrækt /

A1
  • noun
  • Legal agreement, e.g. for doing work for money
  • Agreement to pay someone to kill a person
  • verb
  • To become ill as a result of getting a disease
  • To make an agreement for doing work for money
  • To reduce in size, length due to heat loss
  • To reduce the amount of

series

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈsɪəri:z /

UK / ˈsɪriz /

A1
  • noun
  • Set of stories or articles on a particular subject
  • other
  • Number of things that happen one after another

compose

Copy vocabulary

US / kəmˈpəʊz /

UK / kəmˈpoʊz /

B1
  • verb
  • To calm yourself after being angry or upset
  • To write an essay, article, poem, music etc.
  • To form something from a series of parts
  • To come together to form or make e.g. music
  • To structure a picture or image to make an effect

continue

Copy vocabulary

US / kən'tɪnju: /

UK / kənˈtɪnju /

A1
  • verb
  • To do something without stopping, or after pausing
  • To start doing again after a break, pause, or stop

while

Copy vocabulary

US / waɪl /

UK / hwaɪl, waɪl /

A1
  • conjunction
  • In spite of the fact that; although
  • During the time that; at the same time
  • noun
  • Short amount of time

corner

Copy vocabulary

US / 'kɔ:nə(r) /

UK / ˈkɔrnɚ /

A2
  • noun
  • Place where two lines, sides, corners etc. meet
  • Edges of something, e.g. eyes, boxing ring
  • verb
  • To force into a position impossible to escape from
  • To go around a bend in the road (often by driving)

solo

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈsəʊləʊ /

UK / ˈsoʊloʊ /

B1
  • adjecitve
  • Being performed or done alone
  • noun
  • Activity that one does alone, e.g. playing music
  • verb
  • To perform a song or play music by yourself

street

Copy vocabulary

US / stri:t /

UK / strit /

A1
  • noun
  • Road in a city with buildings and places to walk

clothe

Copy vocabulary

US / kləʊð /

UK / kloʊð /

B1
  • verb
  • To put a certain type of clothing on someone; dress

encyclopedic

Copy vocabulary

US / ɪnˌsaɪkləˈpi:dɪk /

UK / ɛnˌsaɪkləˈpidɪk /

B2
  • adjecitve
  • (Of knowledge) wide in scope; comprehensive

encore

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈɒŋkɔ:(r) /

UK / ˈɑ:ŋkɔ:(r) /

B2
  • noun
  • Additional performance demanded by the audience

music

Copy vocabulary

US / 'mju:zɪk /

UK / ˈmjuzɪk /

A1
  • noun
  • Sounds that are sung or played to give pleasure
  • Academic study of rhythms and sounds
  • Written symbols that represent musical sounds

border

Copy vocabulary

US / 'bɔ:də(r) /

UK / ˈbɔrdɚ /

A2
  • noun
  • Outer part or edge of something
  • Line separating one country, state from another
  • verb
  • To be right next to another country or state
  • To form the edge of something
  • To form the edge of (road, etc.)

producer

Copy vocabulary

US / prəˈdju:sə(r) /

UK / prəˈdu:sə(r) /

A1
  • noun
  • Company producing or growing a certain product
  • Person who organizes the making of a movie

start

Copy vocabulary

US / stɑ:t /

UK / stɑrt /

A1
  • noun
  • First time or place that a thing exists; beginning
  • First opportunity to achieve something, e.g. a job
  • Sudden action or movement because you are scared
  • other
  • Beginning of something in place or time
  • verb
  • To do, be or happen for the first time; begin
  • To turn something on

song

Copy vocabulary

US / sɒŋ /

UK / sɔ:ŋ /

A1
  • noun
  • Distinctive series of sounds made by a bird
  • Music with words that are sung to it
  • Art or tradition of singing

die

Copy vocabulary

US / daɪ /

UK / daɪ /

A1
  • noun
  • Cube with dots numbering 1-6 on it used in games
  • verb
  • To cease to function or work
  • (Of a thing) to stop being used or done
  • (Of a person) to stop living

ask

Copy vocabulary

US / ɑ:sk /

UK / æsk /

A1
  • verb
  • To say to someone that you want something

stroke

Copy vocabulary

US / strəʊk /

UK / strok /

B1
  • noun
  • When blood cannot get to brain, causing damage
  • Mark made by a pen, pencil or brush
  • One movement of oars on a boat
  • verb
  • To rub your hand in a caring way on something

request

Copy vocabulary

US / rɪ'kwest /

UK / rɪˈkwɛst /

A2
  • noun
  • Thing that has been asked for
  • verb
  • To ask for, usually politely and formally

just

Copy vocabulary

US / dʒʌst /

UK / dʒʌst /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Proper or appropriate; as is deserved
  • Doing or being what is right or fair
  • Legally correct; having enough evidence
  • adverb
  • Almost; nearly
  • Exactly at the time of
  • Exactly (the same as, like)

career

Copy vocabulary

US / kə'rɪə(r) /

UK / kəˈrɪr /

A2
  • noun
  • Particular occupation in professional life
  • verb
  • To move forward very fast and without control

for

Copy vocabulary

US / fə(r) /

UK / fɔr,fə /

A1
  • preposition
  • Used to show the purpose, or need of something

generation

Copy vocabulary

US / ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃn /

UK / ˌdʒɛnəˈreʃən /

A2
  • noun
  • Act or process of producing or causing something
  • People born and living at about the same time

interview

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ɪntəvju: /

UK / ˈɪntɚˌvju /

A2
  • noun
  • Meeting to ask questions to get information
  • verb
  • To formally ask questions about a given topic

who

Copy vocabulary

US / hu: /

UK / hu /

A1
  • pronoun
  • Which person
  • Used to introduce information about people

evoke

Copy vocabulary

US / ɪ'vəʊk /

UK / ɪˈvok /

B1
  • verb
  • To bring forth a certain feeling or memory

all

Copy vocabulary

US / ɔ:l /

UK / ɔl /

A1
  • adverb
  • Completely; totally
  • determiner
  • Being every one of something
  • pronoun
  • 100% of something; the complete amount

victor

Copy vocabulary

US / 'vɪktə(r) /

UK / ˈvɪktər /

B2
  • noun
  • Person who wins a game or other competition

way

Copy vocabulary

US / weɪ /

UK / we /

A1
  • adverb
  • Used to emphasize the amount of something
  • noun
  • Particular aspect of something being thought about
  • One of various choices that could be made
  • Particular existing condition or state
  • (Often long) distance or length of time
  • How something is done
  • Route to go to a place
  • Small street
  • Usual behavior, emotions or habits of someone

signature

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈsɪgnətʃə(r) /

UK / ˈsɪɡnətʃɚ /

B1
  • adjecitve
  • Something that represents a person's work or style
  • noun
  • Person's name written in their handwriting

reflect

Copy vocabulary

US / rɪ'flekt /

UK / rɪˈflɛkt /

A2
  • verb
  • To indicate or be a sign of something
  • To bounce back light, heat, sound from a surface
  • To show an image in glass, water, a mirror etc.
  • To think of something seriously and carefully

regular

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈregjələ(r) /

UK / ˈrɛɡjəlɚ /

A2
  • adjecitve
  • Having an equal amount of space or time in between
  • Occurring or being done frequently
  • Being normal, usual, or average
  • noun
  • Customers who frequently visit a place
  • Soldier who has a permanent job in the army

queen

Copy vocabulary

US / kwi:n /

UK / kwin /

A2
  • adjecitve
  • Big, female insect that is capable of laying eggs
  • noun
  • Person's name
  • Playing card, with the image of a queen on it
  • Piece in chess has the most freedom of movement
  • Big, female insect that is capable of laying eggs
  • Female royal ruler; the wife of a king
  • Very successful woman who is the best at something

pay

Copy vocabulary

US / peɪ /

UK / pe /

A1
  • noun
  • Money you receive from your job, work, etc.
  • verb
  • To give money for goods or work done
  • To give (attention, respect, etc.) to
  • To be punished or suffer for something you did
  • To make (a visit) to a person or place

look

Copy vocabulary

US / lʊk /

UK / lʊk /

A1
  • noun
  • Person's beauty or physical attractiveness
  • Particular style of dress, clothes, or appearance
  • The way someone, something appears to be
  • Act of searching for or examining something
  • verb
  • To appear to be; seem

antonio

Copy vocabulary

US / 'æntlə(r) /

UK / ˈæntlɚ /

A1

work

Copy vocabulary

US / wɜ:k /

UK / wɚk /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Activity completed in order to make money
  • noun
  • The product of some artistic or literary endeavor
  • Everything created by an author, artist, musician
  • Activity you do in order to make money
  • Place of employment
  • Final product or result of a some labor or effort
  • verb
  • To bring into a specific state of success
  • To be functioning properly, e.g. a car
  • To do your job in your company or workplace
  • To make an effort to do something
  • To operate a machine or device

inauguration

Copy vocabulary

US / ɪˌnɔ:ɡjə'reɪʃn /

UK / ɪnˌɔɡjəˈreʃən /

C1
  • noun
  • Official ceremony to start a new presidency, etc.

audience

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈɔ:diəns /

UK / ˈɔdiəns /

A2
  • noun
  • Group of people attending a play, movie etc.

show

Copy vocabulary

US / ʃəʊ /

UK / ʃo /

A1
  • noun
  • False display of love, emotion or action
  • An event for displaying or promoting goods
  • Play, opera or theater production
  • Presentation that is broadcast on TV or radio
  • verb
  • To be easily seen or displayed
  • To display your emotions or feelings
  • To let someone see something; display
  • To explain or teach how something is done
  • To lead someone somewhere; point them to something
  • To prove something to be true, correct
  • To reveal or allow something to be seen

postage

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈpəʊstɪdʒ /

UK / ˈpostɪdʒ /

A2
  • noun
  • Charge for mailing something

lark

Copy vocabulary

US / lɑ:k /

UK / lɑ:rk /

B2
  • noun
  • Source of amusement or adventure

guitar

Copy vocabulary

US / gɪˈtɑ:(r) /

UK / ɡɪˈtɑr /

A2
  • noun
  • Stringed instrument played with the fingers

both

Copy vocabulary

US / bəuθ /

UK / boθ /

A1
  • determiner
  • Used to refer to two things at the same time
  • pronoun
  • Used to refer to two things at the same time

they

Copy vocabulary

US / ðeɪ /

UK / ðe /

A1
  • pronoun
  • Two or more people, animals, or things

between

Copy vocabulary

US / bɪˈtwi:n /

UK / bɪˈtwin /

A1
  • preposition
  • From one person, thing, or place, to another
  • In the space that separates two objects
  • Among two or more people who share something

contribution

Copy vocabulary

US / ˌkɒntrɪˈbju:ʃn /

UK / ˌkɑ:ntrɪˈbju:ʃn /

A2
  • noun
  • Helping a cause by giving money, things, services
  • Article published in magazine or newspaper
  • Regular payments to the government for a pension

take

Copy vocabulary

US / teɪk /

UK / tek /

A1
  • noun
  • Filming of a single scene for TV or the movies
  • verb
  • To accept something that is offered
  • To use a method of traveling, e.g. a bus or train
  • To use a camera to make (a photo)
  • To pick up something and go away with it
  • To study a subject in school
  • To attempt to pass (an exam)
  • To require a certain amount of time, money, space

whose

Copy vocabulary

US / hu:z /

UK / huz /

A1
  • pronoun
  • Refers to the person who owns something

verse

Copy vocabulary

US / vɜ:s /

UK / vɚs /

B1
  • noun
  • Writing with words that rhyme or are rhythmic
  • A section of writing, e.g. from the Bible
  • Section of a poem or song

teach

Copy vocabulary

US / ti:tʃ /

UK / titʃ /

A1
  • verb
  • To help someone learn or do something

parent

Copy vocabulary

US / 'peərənt /

UK / ˈpɛrənt, ˈpær- /

A1
  • noun
  • Person's, animal's mother or father
  • Something creating other things of the same kind

the

Copy vocabulary

US / ðə /

UK / ðə /

A1
  • article
  • Used to refer to something already mentioned
  • Used to show there is only one of something
  • determiner
  • Used to describe all of a family

mendoza

Copy vocabulary

US / /

UK / /

A1
  • proper noun
  • A city in western Argentina, located in the foothills of the Andes at the center of a wine-producing

renowned

Copy vocabulary

US / rɪˈnaʊnd /

UK / rɪˈnaʊnd /

B2
  • adjecitve
  • Widely known and esteemed

let

Copy vocabulary

US / let /

UK / lɛt /

A1
  • verb
  • To allow someone to do something
  • Introducing a suggestion to do something together
  • To rent a house, etc. to others

lead

Copy vocabulary

US / li:d /

UK / lid /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Being the main part in movies or plays
  • noun
  • Wire for electricity, computer, etc.; cable
  • Information that could help to solve a crime
  • Main part in a play or movie
  • Heavy, gray metal element
  • Rope used to tie something to stop it escaping
  • Act of being at the front in a race or game
  • verb
  • To show the way or guide others
  • To be at the front of a race or game
  • To travel in front of; go in advance of others

jimmy

Copy vocabulary

US / 'dʒɪmɪ /

UK / 'dʒɪmɪ /

A1
  • noun
  • A short crowbar

glory

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ɡlɔ:rɪ /

UK / ˈɡlɔri, ˈɡlori /

B1
  • noun
  • State of having respect, honor or pride
  • Condition of great beauty, success, or influence

year

Copy vocabulary

US / jə: /

UK / jɪr /

A1
  • noun
  • Unit of time equal to 12 months or 365 or 366 days
  • Used to refer to the age of a person

waltz

Copy vocabulary

US / wɔ:lts /

UK / wɔlts, wɔls /

B2
  • noun
  • Dignified dance of two people holding each other
  • verb
  • To act confidently
  • To dance the waltz

translator

Copy vocabulary

US / træns'leɪtə(r) /

UK / trænsˈletɚ /

A2
  • noun
  • One who puts words from one language into another

pave

Copy vocabulary

US / peɪv /

UK / pev /

B1
  • verb
  • To build a hard even surface for traveling on

live

Copy vocabulary

US / lɪv /

UK / liv /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Being broadcast as events happen, not recorded
  • Carrying electric current; able to give a shock
  • Glowing because burning; hot
  • Not yet killed (for food)
  • adverb
  • (Music, drama) as it is performed
  • verb
  • To be alive
  • To experience a particular type of life
  • To make your home in a house or town

clinton

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈklintən /

UK / ˈklɪntən /

A1
  • proper noun
  • A city in east central Iowa, on the Mississippi River; population 26,407 (est. 2008).
  • A city in southwest central Mississippi, west of Jackson; population 26,313 (est. 2008).

stamp

Copy vocabulary

US / stæmp /

UK / stæmp /

A2
  • noun
  • Object used to mark a surface with a pattern
  • Sign of a particular quality
  • Piece of paper you pay to put on a letter you mail
  • Forceful step with your foot on the ground
  • verb
  • To press a seal on a document to make it official
  • To cause something to be remembered
  • To put a stamp on a letter
  • To make a loud sound with your foot, as when angry

tradition

Copy vocabulary

US / trəˈdɪʃn /

UK / trəˈdɪʃən /

B1
  • noun
  • An event, custom or way common to a people or race
  • Way of thinking or behaving used for a long time

this

Copy vocabulary

US / ðɪs /

UK / ðɪs /

A1
  • adjecitve
  • Used to indicate something already been discussed
  • Used to indicate something happening around now
  • adverb
  • An indication by a physical motion or gesture
  • A specific amount of
  • determiner
  • Person, thing, or idea near you
  • pronoun
  • Person, thing that has already been discussed

play

Copy vocabulary

US / pleɪ /

UK / pleɪ /

A1
  • noun
  • Loose, free movement between two objects
  • Single action in a sports game
  • Performance in which people act in a theater
  • verb
  • To act as a character in a movie, or on stage
  • To perform music on an instrument
  • To use a device, e.g. a video game
  • To do something for enjoyment and fun
  • To do or perform a game or sport

than

Copy vocabulary

US / ðən /

UK / ðən /

A1
  • conjunction
  • Used to compare two things that are not equal

songstress

Copy vocabulary

US / ˈsɒŋstrəs /

UK / ˈsɔ:ŋstrəs /

A1
  • other
  • A woman songster (especially of popular songs)

one

Copy vocabulary

US / wʌn /

UK / wʌn /

A1
  • pronoun
  • You; we; people in general; someone
  • The thing or person previously referred to
  • adjecitve
  • Used to refer to people generally
  • Being a strong example of (something mentioned)
  • number
  • Number 1

root

Copy vocabulary

US / ru:t /

UK / rut, rʊt /

A2
  • noun
  • Emotional connection with a place, history etc.
  • The origin or starting place of something
  • A number that is multiplied by itself
  • Part of plant growing underground, as to get water
  • Part of tooth, hair etc. from which the rest grows
  • Base part of a word to which affixes can be added
  • verb
  • To cause a plant to develop or grow roots
  • (Animals) to search for e.g. food in earth
  • To stop someone moving, as through fear

phone

Copy vocabulary

US / fəʊn /

UK / foʊn /

A2
  • noun
  • Machine used to talk to someone who is far away
  • verb
  • To talk to someone using a telephone

into

Copy vocabulary

US / 'ɪntə /

UK / ˈɪntu /

A1
  • preposition
  • Moving or going inside something
  • In the same direction as; in the direction of
  • So as to become; taking the state of

descent

Copy vocabulary

US / dɪˈsent /

UK / dɪˈsɛnt /

B1
  • noun
  • Movement downward; movement toward something bad
  • The origin of your family; your family before you

band

Copy vocabulary

US / bænd /

UK / bænd /

A1
  • noun
  • Group of people who work together e.g. play music
  • Thin piece of material that wraps around something
  • verb
  • To come together to work on a project
  • To tie things together using string or rope

make

Copy vocabulary

US / meɪk /

UK / mek /

A1
  • noun
  • Product made by a particular company; brand
  • verb
  • To arrange or prepare something e.g. dinner
  • To get to (a place) on time
  • To gain the status of (teacher, lawyer, etc.)
  • To create something by putting things together
  • To earn a certain amount of money at a job
  • To cause or force a person to do something
  • To cause something to happen or be formed

bridge

Copy vocabulary

US / brɪdʒ /

UK / brɪdʒ /

A2
  • noun
  • Structure built over river, road so you can cross
  • verb
  • To make a link between; bring together

demand

Copy vocabulary

US / dɪ'mɑ:nd /

UK / dɪˈmænd /

A2
  • noun
  • Desire customers have to buy product, service
  • A strong request for someone to do something
  • verb
  • To strongly request someone to do something
  • Introduction to Video Content
  • Lydia Mendoza: The First Queen of Tejano MusicIntroductionIn honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we delve into the life of Lydia Mendoza, a Mexican-American musician who played a pivotal role in bridging different musical styles and cultures. Recognized by various epithets such as 'the Lark of the Border,' 'the Songstress of the Poor,' and 'the Glory of Texas,' Mendoza carved a path as the first queen of Tejano music. Through her powerful vocals, she gave voice to the working-class Texans of Mexican descent residing along the border. This article explores the remarkable career of Lydia Mendoza, spanning seven decades and encompassing over 50 solo albums.A Cultural AmbassadorFrom the 1930s to the 1980s, Mendoza recorded hundreds of songs, showcasing her versatility across various genres such as corridos, waltzes, boleros, and polkas. Her music resonated deeply with listeners, regardless of their background, as Mendoza had a unique ability to evoke the traditions and heritage of generations. When performing, her attire reflected her cultural roots, adding another layer of authenticity to her performances. Whether she was singing a heartfelt corrido, a melancholic waltz, or an upbeat polka, Mendoza truly lived and emoted every song she performed.The Oral TraditionMendoza adhered to the oral tradition of honoring audience requests. Drawing upon her encyclopedic musical memory, she always aimed to please her fans. In a memorable 1986 interview, the renowned Tejano composer and music producer, Salome Gutierrez, recalled a time when he asked Mendoza to sing a song her mother had composed decades before. Despite not having sung that particular song in over 20 years, Mendoza confidently started singing it without any reference. Amazingly, she flawlessly performed all 28 verses without making a single mistake. This anecdote speaks volumes about Mendoza's dedication to her craft and her unmatched talent as a vocalist.Cultural HeritageMendoza's story begins in Houston in 1916, where she was born to Mexican parents who had fled the revolution. Growing up in a musical household, Mendoza's mother played a pivotal role in nurturing her interest in music. At the age of 7, her mother taught her how to play the guitar, which served as the foundation for her musical journey. As the years went by, Mendoza expanded her repertoire by learning to play instruments such as the mandolin, the violin, and the iconic 12-string guitar.ConclusionLydia Mendoza's impact on the world of music cannot be overstated. Through her heartfelt performances and powerful vocals, she not only entertained audiences but also served as a cultural ambassador for the Mexican-American community. Mendoza's ability to connect with listeners, regardless of their background, is a testament to her unparalleled talent and musicality. Her legacy as the first queen of Tejano music lives on, and her contributions continue to inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike.
  • Subtitles section
  • And now, for Hispanic Heritage Month, we look back on the life of a Mexican-American musician whose music bridged styles and cultures to tell the stories of the working class.
  • It's part of our series Hidden Histories.
  • During her seven-decade singing career, Lydia Mendoza was known by many nicknames, the Lark of the Border, the Songstress of the Poor, the Glory of Texas.
  • Mendoza was the first queen of Tejano music, giving voice to the working-class Texans of Mexican descent living along the border.
  • From the 1930s to the 1980s, she recorded hundreds of songs on more than 50 solo albums.
  • At public performances, her clothes reflected her cultural roots.
  • Her songs evoked generations of heritage.
  • Whether I'm singing a corrido, a waltz, a bolero, a polka, or whatever it is, when I sing that song, it feels like I'm living that moment.
  • I feel what I am singing.
  • If it's a corrido, I feel it.
  • It's my feeling for every song I sing.
  • Mendoza kept to the oral tradition of singing what audiences requested, drawing on her encyclopedic musical memory.
  • In a 1986 interview, renowned Tejano composer and music producer Salome Gutierrez recalled asking Mendoza to sing a song her mother had composed decades before.
  • SALOME GUTIERREZ, Composer and Musician Translator for Tejano Music She told me, I haven't sung this song in over 20 years.
  • Let me see if I remember the verses.
  • But she started singing it without reading.
  • She sang the 28 verses without making a mistake.
  • Mendoza was born in Houston in 1916 to Mexican parents who were part of the wave fleeing the revolution.
  • It was a musical family.
  • Her mother taught her guitar when she was 7. She later took up the mandolin, the violin, and, eventually, the iconic 12-string guitar.
  • Her family formed a band, playing on street corners and in restaurants, wherever they could pass the hat.
  • They were playing at a San Antonio outdoor market, when a Tejano broadcaster heard Mendoza sing.
  • He put her on his show as a guest.
  • Listeners phoned the station, demanding an encore.
  • The host made her a regular, paying her $3.50 a week.
  • We felt like millionaires, she recalled, years later.
  • While still a teenager, Mendoza auditioned for Bluebird Records, then part of RCA Victor.
  • One of the songs she recorded that day, Malombre, became a hit on both sides of the border, led to a record contract, and was her signature tune for the rest of her career.
  • Mendoza continued performing into the 1980s.
  • Singing in 1977 at President Jimmy Carter's inauguration.
  • In 1999, a decade after a stroke ended her performing career, President Bill Clinton presented her with the National Medal of Arts.
  • With the artistry of her voice and the gift of her song, she bridged the gap between generations and culture.
  • Lydia Mendoza is a true American pioneer.
  • And she paved the way for a whole new generation of Latino performers who today are making all Americans sing.
  • And in 2013, six years after she died at 91, she was honored with a postage stamp, a forever stamp, just as her contributions to Tejano culture will live on forever.