Our Story
Rooted in Houston’s East End and Houston’s Northside, shaped by culture, music, and legacy.
The Hernandez sisters grew up on the poor side, underserved neighborhoods of Houston’s East End and Houston’s Northside. It was a predominately Mexican-American neighborhoods where you could hear all genera of music playing. This influenced them to start their musical endeavors, and they joined their Jr. High School band, playing with used musical equipment. In the 80’s Melinda picked up an old guitar given to her by her brother and learned how to play by listening to her favorite musical artist Linda Ronstadt. Years later her memorable moment was when she was asked to sing with the famous musical artist Little Joe y La Familia. Here she gained national attention during the 7 years she toured with Little Joe. Her sister Patricia would join them on stage for certain shows as well as recordings.
In the late 70’s, at a very young age, Patricia Lynn successfully formed and was lead vocalist for several bands. Ahead of her time, she was the only Mexican-American women, who at the time, would literally rock your socks off with her rock-n-roll and rhythm and blues. To this day, this is still known for her legendary musical artistry. In the late 80’s she would lend her musical talent to local Houston music legends The Ricky Diaz Orchestra and Gilbert Cedeno.
Nancy Saenz started her music career playing flute in junior high school. She was recruited to the Legendary Forest Brook Highschool Band program where she continued to excel and was awarded many honors over the years including jazz musician of the year. Joining a Tejano group known as Las Chicas ETC, she signed and recorded with Freddie Records. While studying at Forest Brook and Texas Southern University, Nancy’s influences with jazz and R&B became apparent and she was awarded a certificate of Recognition by Sheila Jackson Lee for her contribution to music. In 2024, Nancy was selected to perform in Las Vegas at the first Saxy Six concert featuring 6 of the most talented female woodwind players in America. She was selected once again to perform at the 2025 Saxy Six concert.
Our History
1990's
Formation of Sister Sister
Sister Sister is formed as a duet, releasing their debut album “A Little Bit of Texas, A Little Bit of Mexico," which garnished them a Grammy nomination.
2000
Grammy Nomination & Band Expansion
Their debut album earns a Grammy nomination as Nancy Saenz joins the group, marking a major evolution in their sound.
2006
Live DVD Release
“Sister Sister Live” is released, showcasing their musical diversity and identity.
2009
Latino Rocks! Release
With songs written by singer-songwriter Melinda Joyce, their third album blends Latin rock, pop, jazz-tinged ballads, and traditional Mexican guapangos into their signature Texican sound.
2018
Spain Festival Performances
Sister Sister performs internationally at the Pueblos Blancos Music Festival in Spain.
June 11, 2018
A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt
They headline a sold-out Linda Ronstadt tribute, earning official recognition and raising scholarship funds through a performance celebrating Linda Ronstadt's original rock classics and her traditional Mexican songs she recorded on her acclaimed CD "Canciones de Mi Padre".
Read More...
2019
Cultural Recognition & International Return
They return to Spain by popular demand and are honored with inclusion in Houston’s Hispanic music archives and historical exhibits.
2019
The Spirit of Magnolia Park
Their musical journey is featured in “The Spirit of Magnolia Park,” a book by Dr. Grisele Cano.
2020
Featured in No Llore, Chingón!
Melinda Joyce shares her life-on-the-road story with Little Joe y La Familia in his book “No Llore, Chingón! An American Story.”
2023
Return to Spain
Sister Sister y Los Misters perform at the Pueblos Blancos Music Festival in Andalucía, Spain.
February 18, 2024
The Official Tejano Legends Recognition
Sister Sister is officially recognized as The Official Tejano Legends, receiving honors for their achievements and inclusion in the University of Houston archives.
Read More...
July 2024
Spain Concert Series
Sister Sister y Los Misters return to Spain for a four-show concert series at the Pueblos Blancos Music Festival in Andalucía.
January 2025
Sub Label
VIVA Magazine Live! Interview with Sister Sister
Sister Sister was featured on VIVA Magazine Live, bringing their unique musical history that reflects their Texican sound, Latin rhythms, and live energy. This appearance highlights their continued presence and impact in the music scene.
Watch the interview
February 1, 2026
Clemencia Zapata Joins
Known as “La Reina de Los Tambores,” Clemencia Zapata joins Sister Sister, adding new energy to the group.
February 22, 2026
Above and Beyond Award
Sister Sister receives the “Above and Beyond Award” from the Tejano Legends Committee for their dedication to music, community, and culture.
April 2026
Sub Label
VIVA Magazine Live! A Music Spotlight Featuring Sister Siser
Sister Sister was featured in a music spotlight on VIVA Magazine Live!
Watch here.
Meet the Band
The Sisters
Singer-Songwriter
Melinda Joyce Hernandez
Vocalist
Patricia Lynn Hernandez
Sax & Flute
Nancy Saenz
Drums & Latin Percussion
Clemencia Zapata
Los Misters
Bass
Chuggy Hernandez
