Chris Pérez

Born

1969-08-14

Birthplace

San Antonio, Texas, USA

Biography

Chris Pérez is an American guitarist, songwriter and author best known as lead guitarist for the Tejano band Selena y Los Dinos. He married the frontwoman of the group, "Queen of Tejano Music" Selena Quintanilla, on April 2, 1992. Pérez grew up in San Antonio, Texas as one of two children of Gilbert Pérez and Carmen Medina. In 1986, he joined Shelly Lares' band. By the late 1980s, Pérez was respected among Tejano musicians for his guitar skills. This caught A.B. Quintanilla's attention; at the time, Quintanilla was seeking another guitarist for the band he produced, Selena y Los Dinos. Following Selena's death in 1995, Pérez took time off from his career and moved back in with his parents. In 1998, he formed a band with his friend John Garza, named The Chris Pérez Band. The band's debut album went on to win a Grammy in 2000 for 'Best Latin Rock, Urban, or Alternative Album.' In 2012, Pérez published 'To Selena, With Love,' that storied their relationship and struggles. The book was met with praise by critics and fans.