The Dominican Republic is mourning the loss of merengue legend Rubby Pérez, who tragically passed away in the Jet Set nightclub collapse on April 8, 2025. His funeral services have drawn family, friends, fellow artists, and fans to honor his life and legacy.
On Wednesday evening, April 9, a private wake was held at the Blandino Funeral Home in Santo Domingo. Close family members and friends gathered to pay their respects. Notable figures in the music industry, including Fernando Villalona, Sergio Vargas, Miriam Cruz, and Jandy Ventura, were in attendance.
Fernando Villalona, known as "El Mayimbe," expressed his grief, stating, "It's very hard for me to speak right now. This has been so shocking that I still haven't fully processed it, and it's something that will mark the history of our music and our nightlife for the rest of our lives."
Public Tribute at the National Theater
On Thursday, April 10, a public tribute was organized at the Eduardo Brito National Theater in Santo Domingo. The event, running from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., was coordinated by Deputy Minister of Creativity and Artistic Training Amaury Sánchez alongside various cultural and artistic institutions. Fans, fellow musicians, and cultural authorities gathered to celebrate Pérez's contributions to Dominican music.
His casket was displayed on stage, adorned with his signature hat and sunglasses, symbolizing his enduring presence in the merengue scene.
Burial at Puerta del Cielo Cemetery
Rubby Pérez will rest at the Puerta del Cielo Cemetery after the public tribute. The procession will include family, friends, and fans who wish to accompany the beloved singer on his final journey. The burial is expected to be solemn, marking the end of a chapter in Dominican music history.
The Jet Set Nightclub Tragedy
The collapse of the Jet Set nightclub's roof during the early hours of April 8 resulted in the deaths of over 218 individuals, including Rubby Pérez, Nelsy Milagros Cruz Martínez, the governor of Montecristi and sister to MLB star Nelson Cruz, and former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel. The Dominican Republic is reeling from the loss of these prominent individuals and the many fans who perished.
The incident occurred during a concert celebrating the club's 50th anniversary, attended by numerous notable figures. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, with authorities working to determine the factors that led to this devastating event.
Remembering Rubby Pérez
Rubby Pérez was renowned for his powerful voice and dynamic performances, earning him the title "La Voz Más Alta del Merengue" (The Highest Voice of Merengue). His hit song "Volveré" remains a classic in the genre. Fans and fellow artists remember him for his musical talents, warm personality, and dedication to promoting Dominican culture.
His daughter, Zulinka Pérez, shared her family's grief, stating, "It's very hard for us to understand this because my father was healthy. My dad made time for everyone, and if he received so much love from the world, I would be no one not to tell you, even through my pain, how we're holding up as a family."
As the Dominican Republic bids farewell to one of its most cherished artists, Rubby Pérez's legacy continues to resonate through his music and the countless lives he touched.
Rest in peace.