Gugui Martí, key guitarist and luthier of Dominican rock, passes away

Santo Domingo.– The Dominican music scene is in mourning for the death of guitarist and luthier Joelmil “Gugui” Martí, which occurred on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, according to musicians close to the artist. The cause of death has not yet been revealed. Gugui Martí left a deep mark both as a performer and as an instrument builder. He was a founding member of emblematic bands of the national rock movement such as RAAC and Arcángel, the latter led by his brother, the also musician Penché Martí, a central figure of Dominican rock of the 80s.

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During his career, Gugui collaborated with multiple artists, including Chichi Peralta, and actively participated in recordings, jingles, and live concerts. Beyond the stage, he stood out as a luthier, being widely recognized for his expertise in the construction and maintenance of guitars, as well as for his role as a music educator. His craftsmanship and dedication to teaching made him a respected and highly sought-after figure among professional musicians in the country. The sorrow for his departure was immediately felt in the artistic community. The musician Edwin Sánchez described him as “one of those musicians who break leagues, who come along every 20 years,” while maestro Amaury Sánchez expressed: “Dear Gugui, your departure leaves us sadness and great melancholy. Rest in peace, friend. Fly high.” Martí leaves behind an artistic and human legacy that will live on in every note played and in every instrument tuned with his hands.