7 Unforgettable Facts About Rubby Pérez's Family And The Merengue Legend's Tragic 2025 Legacy

The world of Latin music was irrevocably changed in April 2025, with the sudden and tragic passing of merengue icon Rubby Pérez. The shock of his death has placed a renewed spotlight on the singer's deeply private life, particularly the family unit that was his anchor throughout his decades-long career. His family, a blend of deep personal loss and unwavering musical dedication, is now the custodian of his powerful legacy, ensuring the vibrant sound of the Dominican Republic continues to echo across the globe.

The story of Rubby Pérez’s family is one of resilience, tragedy, and the enduring power of music, especially as his children step forward to honor his memory. From his humble beginnings to the devastating incident that took his life, the people closest to him—his parents, his late wife, his final partner, and his seven children—remain the true heart of his narrative. This is an in-depth look at the family behind the voice known as "El Caballero del Merengue."

The Complete Biography of Rubby Pérez and His Family

Rubby Pérez, born Roberto Antonio Pérez Herrera, was more than just a singer; he was a cultural institution in the Dominican Republic and a global ambassador for merengue music. His personal journey, marked by early adversity and later, profound family loss, shaped the emotional depth of his performances.

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• Full Name: Roberto Antonio Pérez Herrera
• Nickname: El Caballero del Merengue (The Gentleman of Merengue)
• Date of Birth: March 8, 1956
• Place of Birth: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
• Date of Death: April 8, 2025
• Cause of Death: Roof collapse at Jet Set Nightclub
• Parents: Modesta Herrera and Francisco Pérez
• Spouse (Late): Inés Lizardo (married 1974; died 2022)
• Partner (Final): Leidy Rosario (2024–2025)
• Children: Father of seven children (including daughter Zulinka Pérez)
• Career Debut: With the orchestra Los Pitágoras
• Notable Affiliation: Wilfrido Vargas’s orchestra (mid-1980s)
• Active Years: 1978–2025

Pérez's life took a dramatic turn at age 15 when a vehicle accident resulted in a severe leg injury, ending his dream of becoming a professional baseball player and redirecting him toward music. This early setback became the foundation for his perseverance, a trait he carried throughout his personal and professional life. His marriage to Inés Lizardo in 1974 provided a stable foundation until her passing in 2022, a loss he spoke openly about in interviews, including one with Tony Dandrades in 2024.

The Heartbreaking Tragedy of April 2025 and The Family's Response

The news that shook the world arrived on April 9, 2025. Rubby Pérez, alongside former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel, was confirmed dead following a catastrophic roof collapse at the Jet Set Nightclub in the Dominican Republic. The circumstances of his passing were particularly harrowing, and the details that emerged from his family painted a picture of a father’s final, courageous moments.

Crucially, his daughter, Zulinka Pérez, a talented singer who performed as a backup vocalist in his band, was on stage with him when the tragedy occurred. Zulinka later shared heartbreaking details, revealing that her father, buried in debris, used his powerful voice to signal rescue workers. He "started singing" so they could locate him beneath the wreckage, a poignant final act that epitomized his unwavering dedication to music and his family's hope for his survival.

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The immediate aftermath saw the Pérez family navigating not only profound grief but also the public spotlight. They released a statement to clarify their position on various personal matters, affirming their recognition of all seven of his children and seeking to maintain unity during the difficult period of mourning. This collective response highlighted the family's determination to protect his memory and honor his wishes in the face of immense public scrutiny.

'Los Hijos de Rubby': Carrying On The Merengue Legend's Legacy

Perhaps the most powerful testament to Rubby Pérez's influence is the immediate emergence of a new musical entity: Los Hijos de Rubby (The Children of Rubby). This orchestra was formed by his daughter, Zulinka Pérez, and her husband, Miguel Báez, both of whom were former backup singers in her father’s band.

The formation of *Los Hijos de Rubby* is a direct, tangible continuation of the merengue legend's life work. It represents a commitment to keep the *Dominican spirit* of his music alive, ensuring that his classic hits like "Sobreviviré," "Tú Vas a Volar," and "Volveré" continue to be performed with the passion and authenticity he was known for. Zulinka's decision to launch the orchestra and land in Venezuela to honor her late father's commitments demonstrates the family's professional and emotional dedication to his legacy.

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The existence of this new group, led by one of the seven children, transforms the tragedy from a final curtain call into an inspiring new chapter. It shows that the Pérez family is not only mourning a loss but actively building upon a musical foundation that spans decades. This act of musical inheritance cements Rubby Pérez’s place in history, not just as a singer, but as a patriarch whose voice continues through his kin.

Rubby Pérez’s Enduring Personal and Musical Legacy

Rubby Pérez’s legacy extends far beyond his discography, which includes collaborations with artists like Omar Enrique. His life was an example of perseverance, from overcoming a debilitating injury to dealing with the death of his wife, Inés Lizardo, and the subsequent finding of a new partner, Leidy Rosario, in the final year of his life. He was a man who, despite personal challenges, never lost his love for his art or his family.

The sheer volume of his music, recorded under labels like Karen, BMG, and Palenke, makes him one of the most important figures in the history of merengue. However, the most profound part of his legacy is the impact he had on his seven children. His commitment to them, and their collective decision to carry on his musical flame, speaks volumes about the values he instilled.

His passing in April 2025 was a devastating loss to the Latin music community, but the strength of the Pérez family has transformed the conversation from one of tragedy to one of enduring cultural heritage. The family’s unity and the orchestra *Los Hijos de Rubby* stand as a powerful, living monument to *El Caballero del Merengue*, ensuring his voice, his rhythm, and his spirit will never fade.