Texan musician Fito Olivares, known for songs that were mainstays at weddings and quinceañeras, including the hit “Juana La Cubana,” has died.
HOUSTON — Texan musician Fito Olivares, known for songs that were mainstays at weddings and quinceañeras, including the hit “Juana La Cubana,” died Friday. He was 75 years old.
The prominent saxophonist died in the morning at his home in Houston, according to his wife, Griselda Olivares. She said she was diagnosed with cancer last year.
Born Rodolfo Olivares in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas on April 19, 1947, Fito Olivares began playing professionally in his late teens. In 1980, he and his brothers formed Olivares and his group La Pura Sabrosura and moved to Houston.
Other tunes he is known for include “Aguita de Melon”, “El Chicle” and “El Colesterol”. In addition to playing the saxophone, he also played the accordion, wrote songs and occasionally sang, his wife said.
Griselda Olivares said that the family was seeing a lot of support from fans on social media. “They played the music all over the world,” she said.
Among those who posted tributes was Ed Gonzalez, the sheriff of Harris County, where Houston is located.
“Rest in peace a legend we all grew up with, Fito Olivares,” González tweeted. “Thanks for the music.”
