“My character speaks for itself”

Jennifer Pena performs at the Memorial Weekend Bash in Victoria, Texas on May 26, 2024. | Photo: Mariaelena Villarreal/Tejano Nation

Award-winning singer Jennifer Peña has released a statement on a viral video showing a heated exchange between her and the event coordinator at the Party on Memorial Weekend in Victoria, Texas, on May 26. The video, which was widely shared on social media, sparked strong reactions from fans and industry insiders alike.

The video shows a heated argument over performance fees involving Peña and her team with the event coordinator, Clara Ramoswho claims that Peña’s management allegedly demanded more money than originally agreed after another act, AB Quintanilla and Los Kumbia Allstarzwere no longer scheduled to appear at the event.

In her statement, Peña expressed her disappointment and frustration over the incident, emphasizing her status as an independent professional musician in the music industry who is fully aware of her worth. She explained that the only reason she agreed to perform without a contract was her eagerness to be there for her fans, even after a previously negotiated contract fell through.

Peña went on to talk about the harassment she has endured and hoped that no one's mother, wife, sister or daughter would ever have to endure such treatment. She condemned the attempts to humiliate her through name calling and belittling her worth, stating that such attempts have been and always will be futile. She reiterated her determination to stand up for herself and rejected the portrayal of her as “greedy,” “sneaky” or “ungrateful” for doing so.

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The singer also spoke about the incident in which people with a hidden camera entered her trailer and attempted to provoke an altercation in order to discredit her name and create a false narrative. She described this behavior as “despicable, disturbing and dangerous.”

Despite the controversy, Peña assured her fans that she showed up and gave her best performance that night. She expressed her gratitude for their love, support and encouragement, saying, “At the end of the day, my character speaks for itself and always will.”

Peña, who made a comeback to music late last year with the release of “Fuerte,” has had a successful run. Her chart-topping hit “Casate Conmigo,” featuring Siggno, was well received by fans and critics alike.

As the Tejano music community continues to react to this incident, it is clear that Jennifer Peña remains true to her music and her fans. Her statement ends with a powerful hashtag, #fuerte, a testament to her strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

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