Albert Davila

Albert Davila was born into the legendary KEDA radio family whose patriarch, Manuel Davila Sr., started Albert’s career when he was just 5 years old. Following his older brothers, Albert became immersed in his family’s radio philosophy … “La musica de la gente quiere escuchar” … the music that people want to hear.

In 1966 KEDA Radio, La Tejanita, was born at 1540 AM. In 1977 the station identifier was changed to “Radio Jalapeño” and a new bilingual era began, airing both Spanish and English music. KEDA’s powerful team of on-air personalities played a mix of Conjunto, Doo Wop, Tex- Mex, Country and old-fashioned Rock and Roll.

Albert would begin his decades-long career at KEDA as a gopher at age 13. Over the years, he absorbed radio operations knowledge and became proficient in copywriting, production, voice overs, promotions and sales. He made his debut as a disc jockey while still in his teens and went by the air name “Cruz Gonzales”.

After studying radio broadcasting at San Antonio College, he joined his family at KEDA full-time. It’s safe to say that eventually he was pretty much running the station. One of his innovations was computerizing the music library and formatting rotations that enhanced the music variety.

Albert also created the popular live show concert series, “Conjunto Stampede” held every month with free admission. Every March he booked talent, produced and promoted the annual 3-day, KEDA anniversary music spectacular provided free of charge to the public.

KEDA’s success was truly a family affair which included his brothers, Manuel, Roy and Ricky “Güero Polkas” Davila on the air, his mother, Madeline, who hosted a public service program “Amiga Magda”, and his sister Chicky who ran the office. Albert basically did everything else.

A man of many hats, Albert Davila spent 45 years in the radio broadcasting industry in San Antonio.