Conjunto legend Gilberto Perez Sr. passes away at 85

Gilberto Perez Sr. | Photo: Rudy Ancira, Rancho Alegre

Gilberto Perez Sr., a legend and pioneer in Conjunto music, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 3. He was 85.

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He was surrounded by his loving family and passed peacefully at home in Mercedes, Texas, according to an obituary.

Perez was recognized as a Conjunto pioneer, icon, and legend in South Texas for his many contributions to South Texas regional music. His career spanned over 6 decades and he left many with endless memories of amazing performances and creating a unique accordion/bajo sexto style. His alto voice in duet with a second voice is highly recognizable as being the one and only Gilberto Perez singing style. The accolades for his music were many and he would often joke, “It would take more than a day to list them all.”

A viewing will be held on Friday, February 5, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus located at 150 N Ohio Ave, Mercedes, Texas. A private mass will be held for Perez for his immediate family at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Mercedes on Saturday, February 6, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. Burial to follow at the Mercedes Memorial Cemetery. Please follow social distancing guidelines and wear your mask at all times.

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