Three decades have passed since Selena Quintanilla ‘s tragic death in 1995, and her widower, Chris Perez, has maintained a significant presence in the music industry and in preserving the legacy of the “Queen of Tex-Mex”.
Its trajectory and activities until the year 2025 are detailed below.
Post-Selena music career
After the loss of Selena, Chris Perez channeled his grief into music.
In 1999, he formed the Chris Perez Band, whose debut album, Resurrection, was awarded the Grammy Award for Best Latin Rock Album in 2000.
Later, in 2001, they released Una Noche Más before the group disbanded.
During the 2000s, Perez collaborated with the Kumbia Kings and later with the Kumbia All Starz, both projects led by Selena’s brother A.B. Quintanilla, fusing cumbia and Latin pop and touring Latin America and the United States.
Personal and family life
In 2001, Chris married Vanessa Villanueva, with whom he had two children: Cassie and Noah.
Although the relationship ended in divorce in 2008, Perez has maintained a close relationship with her children, balancing her family life with her professional commitments.
Publication of the book “To Selena, With Love”
In 2012, Perez published To Selena, With Love, an intimate work that narrates his relationship with Selena, from its beginnings to the moments after her death.
The book offers a personal and emotional perspective, dispelling rumors and sharing unpublished anecdotes about their life together.
The play was well received and provided fans with a deeper insight into the iconic singer’s life through the eyes of her husband.
Chris Perez has never stopped loving Selena Quintanilla and always remembers her with all his affection
Participation in documentaries and tributes
In March 2025, Chris participated in the documentary “Selena y Los Dinos”, premiered at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas.
Directed by Isabel Castro, the film features previously unreleased footage and interviews highlighting Selena’s life and legacy.
Perez shared memories and reflections on his relationship with the singer, giving the audience a more intimate view of their shared history.
Reactions to judicial decisions
Recently, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles denied the parole request of Yolanda Saldivar, who was responsible for Selena’s murder.
Chris Perez expressed on social networks that, although nothing will bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice prevails in honor of the life that was taken from her.
He thanked Selena’s fans for their unwavering support and noted that the singer’s legacy continues to inspire generations.
Current projects and legacy
Buzzy
In addition to his involvement in Selena-related projects, Chris has diversified his activities.
He has ventured into the gastronomic sector and has collaborated in audiovisual projects that pay tribute to the memory of his late wife.
He resides in San Antonio, Texas, where he continues to be involved in the local music scene and keeps Selena’s memory alive through various initiatives.
Thirty years after Selena Quintanilla’s departure, Chris Perez remains an iconic figure in the U.S. Hispanic community.
His dedication to preserving Selena’s legacy, along with his continued contribution to Latin music and culture, solidifies him as a beacon of resilience and enduring love.
Find out more at QuéOnnda.com.
