Mario Ortiz steps down as music director for Jay Perez after 18 years

Mario Ortiz has decided to step down as the longtime musical director for Jay Perez and take a break from touring, according to an announcement via social media on Tuesday night (Jan. 4).

The award-winning producer and musician shared the decision surrounded by his family from his Studio 830 in San Antonio.

“After almost 18 years I’ve decided to get off the road,” he said. “I don’t know if I’m going to call it a break of it it’s just ya I’m done but I’m going to step down from being the musical director and road manager and all that kind of stuff for the Jay Perez band.”

Ortiz cited his decision was to spend more time with family after 18 years on the road. “It was very hard to be away so many years, during the holidays, always missing out on pretty much everything,” he said.

He reflected on his time with Jay Perez and the Band. “It’s been a great journey,” he said. “Througout the 18 years, I’ve toured with a lot of great musicians and a lot of those musicians became my brothers, you know my musical family, from the very first band to the band now. I did what I could for as many years and hope to leave a legacy there.”

RELATED: Mario Ortiz signs J.R. Gomez, Vanita Leo to his Baby Grand Records roster

Ortiz plans to concentrate on his record label, Baby Grand Records, and release new music from his artists J.R Gomez and Vanita Leo, as well as sign new artists, plus provide services to other musicians with his Studio 830 for recording and more.

Watch the full announcement from Mario Ortiz:

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