Javier Bátiz, the legendary figure often hailed as the father of Mexican rock, has left this world at the age of 80 after succumbing to cancer, announced his wife, Claudia Madrid, through heartfelt messages shared on social media.
"Queridos amigos y familia, para informarles que nuestro adorado y querido, mi esposo Javier Bátiz, trascendió el día de hoy. Su legado y su música quedan para la eternidad. Te amo amor mío. Vuela alto mi ángel,” read her touching goodbye.
Bátiz's career began at the tender age of 13, performing on the streets of Tijuana before he became a prominent figure influencing the rock scene across Mexico. Born Javier Isaac Medina Núñez on June 3, 1944, Bátiz was deeply rooted in the blues and R&B genres, drawing immense influence from icons like B.B. King and Chuck Berry. He later transformed these musical foundations, blending them with traditional Mexican styles.
His noteworthy contribution to rock music began with the formation of his band, Los TJs, back in 1957, as he started shaping the first seeds of rock music within the country. His migration to Mexico City marked his ascent as he replaced Johnny Laboriel in the popular group Los Rebeldes del Rock. Despite initial struggles fitting their style, Bátiz's unique blues-infused rock began to garner recognition at renowned venues like La Fusa and Terraza Casino.
His big break came when he hosted the first mass open-air concert at Alameda Central, captivating audiences with his charismatic guitar skills and on-stage presence. Bátiz’s approach to music was revolutionary; he infused rock with elements from his Tijuana roots, creating something unique and reflective of the cultural fusion of the border.
"La muerte es, como la veo, el despertar de un sueño. Para mí, la vida es un sueño, y morir es despertar,” Bátiz once said, reflecting his philosophical view on life and death. His humor and positivity remained steadfast even as he confronted significant health challenges, including prostate cancer and pneumonia.
Renowned guitarist Carlos Santana considered Bátiz not only his mentor but also his friend. Santana, who was introduced to Bátiz by his mother as a young boy, referred to him as "un genio,” emphasizing the deep respect and admiration he held for the older artist. Bátiz recounted fondly, "Cuando Carlos me escuchó tocar por primera vez, dice que se le cayeron los choninos.” Their bond was not just as musician and mentor but also as comrades who would jam together and inspire each other.
Throughout his career, Javier Bátiz released over thirty albums, with his latest work coming out just last year, before his health took him away from the stage. His discography not only showcased traditional influences through the lens of rock but also solidified his position as one of the torchbearers of the genre. Among his most celebrated tracks are personal interpretations of classic rancheras and norteños, reflecting the full spectrum of his musical artistry.
His impact extended beyond merely performing music; Bátiz dedicated himself to teaching and nurturing upcoming musicians. He was known for sharing his knowledge freely, ensuring the transmissions of his craft to the next generation. The late artist's educational attitude is beautifully captured when he remarked, “Empecé a compartir todo lo que sé,” highlighting his dedication to fostering new talent.
The music community across Mexico is mourning his loss, with many prominent voices paying homage through social media. The Mexican Secretary of Culture issued condolences, dubbing his contributions as nationally significant. "Fundador de los TJ's, renovó la escena musical fronteriza y mexicana en la década de 1960 con un estilo influenciado por el blues y el rock estadounidense," the statement read, encapsulating his legacy perfectly.
Among the tributes, friends and colleagues from the music industry expressed their sorrow and admiration. "Siempre serás uno de los más grandes pioneros del rock mexicano, en paz descanses,” stated the prominent rock band, El Haragán, demonstrating the universal respect Bátiz garnered throughout his life.
Setting aside his achievements, Bátiz was noted for his humble demeanor and integrity, often addressing the stereotypes of musicians. He carried his legacy with grace, famously stating, "Lo que canto es lo que soy," emphasizing the authenticity of his artistic expression.
Javier Bátiz's final performances, held with great hope for health recovery, also now serve as memorials, with events hosted in Tijuana reflecting on his life and contributions. A concert planned at the Centro Cultural Tijuana to raise funds for his treatment has now transformed to celebrate his remarkable legacy.
His wife Claudia has noted the desire of Bátiz to remain buried alongside his parents, ensuring his familial bonds remain strong as he rests. The continued reflection of his music and teachings ensures he will remain alive within the hearts of many for years to come.
Javier Bátiz's story is not merely one of musical success; it is the tale of friendship, mentorship, and unwavering passion for music. His influence permeates the very fabric of Mexican rock and the broader music community. Truly, he is not just remembered as one of the greatest, but as one of our own—"el Brujo"—who transformed his dreams and those of many others through the power of music.
