Augie Meyers, the San Antonio-born musician known for his signature Vox organ sound and role in the Sir Douglas Quintet and Texas Tornados, has died at 85.
SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio music legend Augie Meyers, whose signature organ sound helped define Tex-Mex rock for decades, has died at the age of 85.
Born May 31, 1940, in San Antonio, Meyers was a founding member of the Sir Douglas Quintet and later the supergroup Texas Tornados.
In the early 1960s, Meyers formed the Sir Douglas Quintet with Doug Sahm. His distinctive Vox organ became a defining part of the band’s sound on songs like “She’s About a Mover,” “Mendocino,” and “Nuevo Laredo.”
He later helped form the Texas Tornados with Sahm, Flaco Jiménez and Freddy Fender, blending Tex-Mex, country and rock influences that brought the group international recognition. One of his biggest hits was with the Texas Tornadoes in 1990, “(Hey Baby) Que Paso.”
Meyers also worked as a studio musician for artists including Bob Dylan, Tom Waits and Tom Jones.
Later in life, he lived in Bulverde in the Texas Hill Country. Meyers is remembered as a pioneering figure in Tex-Mex and Texas music whose influence spanned generations.
“He passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, March 7 at 85 with his wife Sara at his side.” said a Facebook post on his official page. “A Memorial Service for the public will be announced soon. The family thanks all of Augie’s friends and fans for their prayers during this time.”