The Colombian music scene is mourning the tragic loss of Zair Guette, a 25-year-old singer renowned for his appearances on reality shows such as “El Factor X” and “Yo Me Llamo.” On February 14, 2025, Guette and his manager, Teddy Vergara Álvarez, were found dead in Ginebra, Valle del Cauca, Colombia, following a violent attack that has left the nation in shock.
The Tragic Incident
According to reports, the incident occurred shortly after Guette concluded a performance in the village of Barranco Bajo. Witnesses recounted that armed assailants intercepted the singer and his manager as they left the venue, forcibly abducting them under threats. Hours later, their bodies were discovered with clear signs of torture; Guette had sustained multiple injuries, including a fatal gunshot wound to the head, while Álvarez was also shot and later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Born and raised in Barranquilla, Guette developed a passion for music at an early age, drawing inspiration from iconic ranchera artists like Alejandro Fernández and Vicente Fernández. His dedication to the genre led him to live in Mexico for a period, immersing himself in the culture that shaped his musical style. Guette’s talent and charisma earned him spots on popular Colombian talent shows, including “El Factor X” and “Yo Me Llamo,” where he captivated audiences with his renditions of regional Mexican music. His career further flourished as he embarked on tours across Europe, bringing his unique sound to an international audience.
Community and Family Reactions
The news of Guette’s untimely death has sent ripples through the music community and his fan base. Social media platforms have been inundated with messages of grief and disbelief. One fan expressed sorrow, stating, “I can’t believe it, I thought it was a lie,” while another lamented, “An extraordinary voice is broken.” These sentiments reflect the profound impact Guette had on his listeners and the void his passing has created.
Family members are grappling with the devastating loss. His sister, Saray Guette, took to social media to honor her brother’s memory, writing, “They took you away; they extinguished the happiness of an entire family. They left us with eternal mourning in our hearts and in music because, with great pride, I can say that you elevated Mexican music to the highest level.” Her heartfelt tribute underscores the personal and cultural significance of Guette’s contributions.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. Preliminary findings suggest that Guette had received multiple threats prior to the incident. A close friend, Luis Ángel Rengifo Vega, known professionally as Engell Melody, revealed, “He did tell me that he was being threatened, but in Barranquilla, not over there (Valle del Cauca). He had already talked to those people, and they were going to leave him alone and everything.” This information has prompted investigators to explore potential motives and identify those responsible for the heinous act.
Remembering Zair Guette
In the wake of this tragedy, fans and fellow artists have been sharing memories and paying homage to Guette’s legacy. His dedication to his craft was evident in his final social media post, where he shared a video of himself rehearsing with his band for an upcoming show, captioning it, “Rehearsal with my band, improving the shows.” This glimpse into his unwavering commitment to his art has resonated deeply with those who admired his work.
As the investigation continues, the music community reflects on the life and talent of Zair Guette, whose promising career was tragically cut short. His contributions to the genre have left an indelible mark, and his memory will continue to inspire aspiring musicians and fans alike.
