Cruz Martínez Biography: Kumbia Kings Co-Founder, Producer & Alicia Villarreal’s Soon-to-be Ex-husband

The name Cruz Martínez resonates across the Latin music scene, particularly in the cumbia, pop, and Tejano spheres. A keyboardist, songwriter, and music producer, Martínez was the co-founder of legendary group Kumbia Kings and later Los Super Reyes. A multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy winner, his influence in the evolution of Latin music is immense and long-lasting. His signature style, a blend of traditional Latin rhythms with modern styles, creates top-of-the-chart hits that still flourish in nightclubs and radio stations all over the world.

Along with musical success, Cruz’s life is full of professional and personal highs and lows—from the start of his music production career to legal battles over the name of Kumbia Kings and a highly publicized marriage and divorce to Mexican pop star Alicia Villarreal. As of 2025, Cruz is working on a movie and book project to tell his side of the Kumbia Kings story. Here, we’ll delve into his life, his achievements, and his future plans, giving you a well-rounded picture of the man behind the music.

Quick Bio

Who is Cruz Martínez?

Cruz Martínez is a multi-award-winning keyboardist, songwriter, and American record producer. Born of Mexican descent and with a childhood love of music, Cruz gained fame as the co-founder of the Kumbia Kings—a band that revolutionized Latin pop by adding hip-hop, R&B, and reggaeton to cumbia. He later formed Los Super Reyes, proving his musical brilliance could transcend any band or label. He has won five Grammy and Latin Grammy awards throughout his career and has collaborated with the best in the Latin music industry.

He is not just a performer; he is a behind-the-scenes creative talent who writes, arranges, and produces music that consistently reaches the top of the charts. Cruz is respected for being capable of putting cultural flavor into his productions without losing mainstream appeal. His production has made him a household name in Latin households and among producers around the world. Whether he is producing groups or solo artists, Cruz is still one of the most trusted names in contemporary Latin music.

Early Life

Cruz was  born on June 21, 1972. in Chicago but was brought up in Corpus Christi, Texas, by a family that placed a lot of importance on music. His father, Felix Martínez, and uncles were musicians, and Cruz was exposed to music at a very early age. He was playing the piano by the time he was 12 years old, and his fascination with sound design led him to experiment with synthesizers and drum machines. His life exposure at an early age to Latin music, Tejano, and cumbia affected the foundation of his later work.

At the tender age of 16, Cruz joined the family band La Sombra, not just as a musician but also as an arranger and musical director. His natural musical ear and ability to innovate within the traditional Latin formats marked him as a precocious talent. Touring with La Sombra showed him the ropes of touring, studio recording, and interacting with fans—experiences that would serve him well in the future with the Kumbia Kings and Los Super Reyes.

Career Beginnings

Cruz’s big break was when he, together with A.B. Quintanilla, brother of the late Tejano singer Selena, formed the Kumbia Kings in 1999. The Kumbia Kings were an immediate hit because of their style-blending sound, which brought cumbia into the mainstream by adding R&B, hip-hop, and reggaeton into it. Their debut album Amor, Familia y Respeto sold over half a million copies and became a Latin music classic album.

By the early 2000s, the Kumbia Kings were ruling Billboard Latin charts, performing at award shows, and touring all over the Americas. Cruz was more than a performer for the band—he co-wrote and produced some of their biggest hits. However, inner turmoil and artistic differences led to a breakup in 2006. Far from slowing down, Cruz created Los Super Reyes, a new group that carried on the Kumbia Kings’ legacy with fresh energy and hits like “Muévelo,” which reached number one across Latin America.

Who is Cruz Martínez’s Ex-wife?

Cruz Martínez was once married to Alicia Villarreal, a well-known Mexican vocalist and previous lead vocalist of Grupo Límite. The two had crossed paths in the early 2000s when they collaborated on music. Cruz had created Alicia’s solo record Cuando el Corazón Se Cruza, and their professional relationship quickly developed into romance. They tied the knot in 2003 and promptly became one of the most admired power couples in Latin entertainment.

They had two sons, Cruz Ángelo and Félix Estefano, and shared a blended family with Alicia’s daughter from her first marriage. The marriage later on suffered. In 2024, Alicia filed for divorce amid public allegations of personal issues. The case is still open and has attracted the interest of Mexico and America’s media. Despite all the drama, the two are still dedicated to their careers and raising their children together.

Cruz Martínez’s Physical Appearance

Cruz Martínez has a distinct and recognizable style. He is often sporting a trimmed beard, dark sunglasses, and a mix of casual and rocker-type clothing. His style is similar to his music—modern with hints of classic Latin sensibility. Often wearing leather jackets, hats, or suits while performing, Cruz knows how to keep up a strong visual presence to match his energetic music.

He stands about 5 feet 10 inches and is athletic and powerful in build. He sports tattoos that reflect his cultural pride and creativity. His style has evolved over the years, but he’s always maintained his cool, assured look. From the stage of a packed stadium to an intimate moment shared with followers on social media, Cruz’s visual image has become integrated into his musical identity.

Net Worth

As of 2025, Cruz Martínez’s net worth is between $5 million and $10 million. Much of his wealth has been created from decades of music production, songwriting royalties, concert touring, and band projects. Being a member of two highly successful bands—Kumbia Kings and Los Super Reyes—for such a long time has allowed him to keep making money for decades on end.

He also makes money from music licensing, endorsements, and merchandising. Cruz also legally owns the rights to the Kumbia Kings name, giving him further financial leverage when it comes to branding and touring. His new book and film project could further boost his earnings. Unlike many artists, Cruz has been slowly gaining control of the business aspects of his career.

Social Media

Cruz Martínez is present on social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. On Instagram, followers can get behind-the-scenes information, flashback images of his Kumbia Kings years, and updates of upcoming projects. He uses these avenues to stay connected with his fans and promote new music along with catalog material.

With over 500,000 Instagram followers, Cruz uses his following to promote collaborations, announce live shows, and engage with fans through Q&A sessions and live streaming. He’s even debuted future music and given exclusive updates on his memoir and film. His social media strategy blends professional promotion with personal narrative, and because of this, his pages are the hub of all things Cruz Martínez.

Future Prospects and Vision

Cruz Martínez is far from hanging up his boots. His latest movie and book venture, Detrás de la Corona (Behind the Crown), aims to tell his side of the Kumbia Kings’ story. Based on interviews and social media, the venture will delve into detail about the triumphs, betrayals, and artistic breakthroughs in his career. Fans are holding their breath for its release in 2025 as it will open up new secrets and behind-the-scenes drama.

Along with storytelling, Cruz is also working on new music. He continues to tour with Los Super Reyes and is open to mentoring the next generation of Latin talent. He has even hinted at starting a production label to provide up-and-coming artists with a break in the industry. From behind the camera to in front of a keyboard, Cruz Martínez’s vision remains the same: keep creating, innovating, and inspiring.