Roland LIVE Martinez – Top Latino
Willis, TX /LWW/ Mr. Roland LIVE Martinez, CEO & Owner of Tejano Live Radio, has been recognized by the Top Latinos in the 2026 edition.
The Rhythm of Resilience: The Story of Roland LIVE Martinez
In the heart of Galveston, Texas, where the salty breeze carries the whispers of history and culture, a young boy named Roland Martinez grew up surrounded by the aroma of his family’s Mexican restaurant, El Nopalito. The restaurant, founded in 1978 by his parents, Ruben and Diamantina Martinez, was more than just a business. It was a symbol of hard work, community, and love. For years, El Nopalito was a cherished gathering place, where laughter and the clinking of plates harmonized with the vibrant sounds of Tejano music playing in the background.
Life, however, had other plans. In 2006, the Martinez family lost their beloved restaurant. For many, such a loss would have been devastating. For Roland, it became the spark that ignited a lifelong passion. While the doors of El Nopalito closed, the music that had always filled its walls continued to play in Roland’s heart.
Roland’s love for music became his guiding light. He embarked on a journey as a mobile DJ, bringing joy to countless celebrations and events. His talent and dedication quickly set him apart, and he found himself contributing to Bandido/Bnet Radio, where he specialized in Tejano music for over two decades. Thanks to the mentorship of Alfred “The Boogieman” Rodriguez, Roland honed his craft and became a distinguished voice in the Tejano music scene.
In 2023, Roland took a bold step forward and founded Tejano Live Radio in Willis, Texas. The station became a beacon for Tejano music lovers, a place where the rich heritage of the genre could thrive and connect generations. With over 39 years in the music industry, Roland’s journey was far from ordinary. It was a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of community.
Roland’s contributions to the music world did not go unnoticed. He was voted Best DJ for eight consecutive years, including the prestigious Galveston Daily News Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025. His excellence earned him recognition from the State of Texas House of Representatives for 34 years of musical brilliance. In 2023, he was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame Award, a milestone that solidified his legacy. The accolades continued to pour in, including the Tejano Legends Special Recognition Award in 2024 and induction into the LULAC Hispanic Heritage Hall of Fame the same year.
Roland’s story is not just about awards and achievements. It is about the people who stood by him. His beautiful wife, DJ Tejana Laura Martinez, has been his unwavering partner, both in life and in music. Together, they have built a legacy that extends beyond the airwaves. In January 2026, they launched the Tejano Live Radio Party en La Playa DJ Cruise, a celebration of music, culture, and community that was met with resounding success. Plans for the 2027 cruise are already underway, promising even more unforgettable memories.
On March 22, 2026, Roland was honored with the Official Tejano Legends of Houston for Broadcasting Award. This was a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Tejano music.
Through every challenge and triumph, Roland LIVE Martinez has remained true to his roots. He is more than a DJ. He is a storyteller, a cultural ambassador, and a symbol of resilience. From the loss of El Nopalito to the heights of the Tejano music industry, Roland’s journey reminds us that even in the face of adversity, the rhythm of life can lead us to extraordinary places.
As Roland often says, “The music never stops. It just finds a new beat.”
Top Latinos is a prestigious New York publication dedicated to honoring the achievements of the Latino community. They meticulously identify and honor outstanding Latino professionals nationwide who have reached impressive levels of success in their respective fields. By showcasing their accomplishments, they aim to foster growth and appreciation of the Latino industry and culture. Since their establishment in 2010, Top Latinos has been wholeheartedly committed to fulfilling their mission of bringing awareness to the exceptional contributions made by the Latino professional and executive community.