Abraham Quintanilla Jr., the father of late Tejano music star Selena Quintanilla, has died at the age of 86, his family has announced on social media. His son, musician A.B. Quintanilla III, shared the news with a heartfelt Instagram post saying, “It’s with a heavy heart to let you guys know that my Dad passed away today…” without disclosing a cause of death.
Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, Quintanilla was a singer, songwriter and producer who first performed with the group Los Dinos before becoming the manager and guiding force behind his daughter Selena’s career. He formed the family band Selena y Los Dinos, helping her rise from local talent to international Tejano music icon before her tragic death in 1995. After her passing, he worked to preserve her legacy through various projects, including documentaries and biographical productions.
Quintanilla’s influence on Selena’s early success and his decades-long role in championing Tejano music made him a respected figure in the music community. Condolences have poured in from fans worldwide following the announcement of his death.