Jay Perez: Tejano Icon ‘La Voz’ Reflects on Roots, Legacy, and a 40-Year Musical Journey

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — A special proclamation honoring icons of Tejano and Norteño music was presented Tuesday by the Bexar County Clerk and Commissioners Court, recognizing the artists who have shaped the sound, culture, and spirit of South Texas and beyond.

Among those honored was San Antonio’s own Jay Perez, affectionately known as “La Voz.” The Tejano superstar recently invited KENS 5 anchor Henry Ramos into his home for a rare interview, reflecting on the recognition and a career that spans more than four decades.

“It has been a great journey,” Perez said. “And I’m not trying to speak in past tense. I still have some time left.”

With 40 years of captivating audiences through his dynamic voice and magnetic stage presence, Jay Perez remains one of Tejano music’s most beloved figures. His journey began on San Antonio’s West Side, growing up in the Cassiano Homes, where music filled the house from an early age.

“Always — always singing,” Perez recalled. “It started at home. It started with my mom, my tíos and tías. Look where I’m at now. I’m very successful, very grateful, and humbled.”

Before launching a highly successful solo career in the mid-1990s, Perez honed his craft performing with legendary groups Latin Breed and David Lee Garza y Los Musicales, experiences that helped shape his unmistakable sound and stage presence. His solo breakout included hits like “Steel Rain,” solidifying his status as a leading voice in modern Tejano music.

Over the course of his career, Perez has earned an impressive 40 Tejano Music Awards, a testament to both his longevity and influence within the genre. His nickname, La Voz, reflects not just the power of his vocals, but the emotional connection he continues to share with fans.

“It’s a gratifying feeling,” he said. “It’s something you can’t put into words when you’re standing on stage and they’re singing all the songs right along with you.”

Despite decades of success and accolades, Perez says his roots remain central to who he is — and always will be.

“As you get older, you realize and you remember where I came from,” he said. “I like to forget all the bad things, but I can’t forget where I came from. Because it’s those same roots where I stood strong as a little boy. To this day, I’m still here.”

Tuesday’s proclamation also honored fellow Tejano legends including David Lee Garza, Shelly Lares, David Marez, Little Joe, and others, celebrating a generation of artists whose contributions continue to define the genre.

For Perez, being recognized in San Antonio made the honor especially meaningful.

“Because this is home,” he said. “To be recognized like this and have the support and the love from the fans — and especially my family — it means everything. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

He credits his strongest support system to his wife, Roxy, who also joins him on stage as a backup vocalist, and the close-knit family life they share offstage.

Now 62, Perez shows no signs of slowing down. He recently extended his recording deal with legendary Freddie Records and released a new album titled Le Seguiremos and continues to perform regularly, driven by the same passion that started in his childhood home.

More than four decades in, Jay Perez remains not only one of Tejano music’s most powerful voices — but a living symbol of its roots, resilience, and enduring legacy.

Watch the full interview with Jay Perez below or on your TV with the KENS5+ app.

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