- Rubby Pérez, a Dominican merengue icon, died in the Jet Set club roof collapse in Santo Domingo.
- Pérez, 69, was known for hits like ‘Volveré’ and ‘El Africano,’ earning him the title ‘the highest voice in merengue.’
- A public funeral was held at Santo Domingo’s National Theater, with tributes from fans and fellow artists.
- The collapse killed over 140 people, with investigations ongoing to determine the cause.
- Pérez’s legacy as a symbol of courage and artistic excellence continues to resonate across the Dominican Republic.
Dominican Merengue Icon Rubby Pérez Dies in Santo Domingo Roof Collapse
Dominican Republic music legend Rubby Pérez, known for his iconic merengue hits, was among the victims of the tragic roof collapse at the Jet Set club in Santo Domingo. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, claimed the lives of over 140 people and left hundreds injured. Pérez, 69, was celebrated for his contributions to merengue, the Dominican Republic’s signature musical style.
A Musical Legacy
Born on March 8, 577, in Haina, Pérez initially aspired to be a professional baseball player. However, a car accident that injured his right leg ended those dreams. He turned to music, finding solace in the guitar and launching his career in the 1970s as part of the group Los Pitagoras del Ritmo. In 1989, he joined Wilfrido Vargas’ orchestra, which paved the way for his successful solo career. His hits, including ‘Volveré,’ ‘El Africano,’ and ‘Tu Vas a Volar,’ earned him the title ‘the highest voice in merengue.’
Tributes from Fans and Fellow Artists
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from fans and fellow artists. Wilfrido Vargas, Pérez’s former collaborator, released a statement calling him a ‘symbol of courage, passion, and artistic excellence.’ ‘His voice, powerful and full of life, will continue to resonate in every corner of our Dominican Republic and beyond,’ Vargas said. A public funeral service was held on Thursday at Santo Domingo’s National Theater, where mourners gathered to honor his legacy.
The Jet Set Collapse
The roof collapse at the Jet Set club has left the nation in shock. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the incident, with questions raised about the building’s structural integrity and inspection history. Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center of Emergency Operations, described the rescue efforts as the ‘most difficult task’ of his 20-year career. Over 200 people were injured, with 23 still hospitalized, including eight in critical condition.
Mourning a Beloved Artist
Mourners gathered outside the United Palace theater in New York City’s Washington Heights, a hub for the Dominican diaspora, to pay their respects. A poster of Pérez was taped to a tree, framed by Dominican flags and candles bearing images of Jesus and the Virgin Mary. ‘He was a beloved man,’ said Martitza Martinez, 75, who attended three of Pérez’s parties in the Dominican Republic. ‘Performing live, he was excellent.’
Ongoing Investigations
As the nation mourns, investigations into the collapse continue. Prosecutors have arrived at the site, and the government has pledged a thorough inquiry. The club’s owners have stated they are cooperating with authorities. Meanwhile, families of the victims remain in anguish, waiting for answers and the release of their loved ones’ bodies.
Rubby Pérez’s death is a profound loss for the Dominican Republic and the global music community. His legacy as a merengue icon and a symbol of resilience will continue to inspire generations. As Wilfrido Vargas aptly put it, ‘You can never really say goodbye to an artist like Rubby Pérez.’