Selena Quintanilla's father passes away at age 86: What we know about his cause of death

The father of beloved singer Selena Quintanilla has passed away at the age of 86. Abraham Quintanilla, who was instrumental in guiding Selena's musical journey, leaves behind a lasting legacy tied to her groundbreaking career.

Selena's first public performance took place at the restaurant Papgayos when she was just 9 years old. Her father immediately recognized her talent, recalling in a 1995 interview that "her timing and pitch were flawless" from her very first performance.

Under Abraham's guidance, Selena quickly rose to prominence as a solo artist. She won the Tejano Music Awards Female Vocalist of the Year 11 times and earned a Grammy Award for Best Mexican-American Album in 1994. In recognition of her enduring influence, she was posthumously awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.

Tragically, Selena's life was cut short in March 1995 when she was shot and killed by Yolanda Saldvar, her fan club president. Despite this devastating loss, Abraham Quintanilla continued to preserve Selena's memory and musical legacy. In an interview five years ago, he stated his intention to "keep [Selena's] memory alive through her music," a mission he carried out with dedication.

Abraham's contributions to Selena's career were foundational, ensuring that both her music and his influence remain significant in the world of Latin music.

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• Selena Quintanilla's father dies at 86: What we know, cause of death