Abraham Quintanilla Jr., the influential figure who shaped the career of Tejano legend Selena Quintanilla and helped bring her music to a global audience, has died at the age of 86. His death occurred on Saturday, December 13, 2025, according to a public message shared by his son, music producer Abraham “A.B.” Quintanilla III. No details regarding the cause or location of death were disclosed.
In an emotional tribute posted on social media, A.B. Quintanilla remembered his father as a strong-willed and determined man who understood the realities of the music industry. He also expressed deep concern for his mother, Marcella Quintanilla, noting the profound loss she has endured after losing both her husband and daughter.
Born with a passion for music, Abraham Quintanilla Jr. first pursued his own artistic ambitions as a member of the band The Dinos during the 1970s. Although that chapter did not bring lasting commercial success, it laid the foundation for what would become one of the most significant family-driven stories in Latin music history. Recognizing the talent of his children early on, Quintanilla began teaching Selena, A.B., and Suzette to sing and play instruments, eventually forming the family band Selena y Los Dinos.
The group initially performed wherever opportunities arose, including at the family’s restaurant and small community events in Texas. After relocating to Corpus Christi in the early 1980s, the band steadily gained momentum, performing at dance halls and clubs across the region.
Under her father’s management, Selena’s career accelerated rapidly. By the early 1990s, she had become a defining voice in Tejano and Latin pop music, earning critical acclaim, commercial success, and a Grammy Award. Songs such as “Como la Flor,” “Amor Prohibido,” and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” cemented her legacy and expanded the reach of Latin music in the United States and beyond.
Following Selena’s tragic murder in 1995, Abraham Quintanilla Jr. devoted himself to preserving and managing her legacy. He oversaw her estate for many years, ensuring her music and story continued to reach new generations. Around 2016, he gradually transferred those responsibilities to his daughter Suzette.
Quintanilla Jr.’s role in Selena’s life and career was later depicted in the biographical film Selena, where actor Edward James Olmos portrayed him opposite Jennifer Lopez in the title role. The film further solidified public awareness of his influence as both a father and manager.
Abraham Quintanilla Jr. is survived by his wife, Marcella, his son A.B., and his daughter Suzette. His impact on Latin music endures through the lasting legacy of Selena, whose voice and story continue to resonate worldwide.
