Quintanilla III, shared the news on social media early Saturday, expressing deep sorrow at his father’s passing.
The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
A Life Steeped in Music and Family
Abraham Isaac Quintanilla Jr. was born on February 22, 1939 in Corpus Christi, Texas, and spent much of his life in and around music.
Early in his career he performed as a member of the vocal group Los Dinos, where he honed his skills as a singer, songwriter, and musician.
After recognizing the extraordinary talent of his youngest daughter Selena, he put his own ambitions aside to become the driving force behind her career.
He founded and managed the family band Selena y Los Dinos, which included Selena on vocals, A.B. on bass, and sister Suzette on drums, guiding them through performances across Texas and beyond.
His role as manager was pivotal in shaping Selena’s rise to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Building a Legacy
Quintanilla’s influence extended beyond managing his daughter’s early career.
He served as a producer and mentor, helping craft the sound that made Selena a beloved figure in Tejano and Latin music.
Following Selena’s tragic death in 1995, he became a key steward of her legacy — overseeing projects that celebrated her life and work, including films, documentaries, and posthumous releases that introduced her music to new generations.
In recent years, Abraham Quintanilla participated in media projects such as documentaries highlighting his family’s journey and Selena’s impact on music and culture.
His stewardship of her legacy kept her memory alive for fans around the world.
Remembering a Patriarch of Tejano Music
Quintanilla’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Tejano music history.
Friends, fans, and music figures have already begun sharing tributes, remembering him not only as Selena’s father and manager, but as a musician, producer, and father who fought tirelessly to elevate his daughter’s voice.
Formal funeral plans and services have yet to be announced by the family.
As details emerge, many are expected to honor both his contributions to music and his enduring commitment to preserving Selena’s legacy.
