Filipino jazz singer Louie Reyes, former member of The New Minstrels, passes away

By Robert Requintina

Published Oct 26, 2025 11:21 pm

Louie Reyes (Facebook)

OPM icon Louie Reyes, who was a member of the popular '70s vocal group The New Minstrels, has passed away.

Louie's demise was confirmed by her husband, Cesar dela Fuente, in one of the tribute posts for the Filipino jazz singer.

"Today I lost the love of my life," wrote Cesar on Oct. 26. The cause of Louie's death was not disclosed. No interment details for Louie have been announced.

Following her death, colleagues in the entertainment industry — Odette Quesada, Ivy Violan, and Leah Navarro — offered condolences and prayers.

Singer-songwriter Odette Quesada wrote on Facebook, "Bodjie and Iran into Louie Reyes at IKEA in Burbank, California, 24 years ago. She had heard that we had recently relocated to Los Angeles and welcomed us with open arms, telling us to call if we ever needed anything.

"Through the years, we saw Louie Reyes and her husband, Cesar, at every Filipino event in L.A. and grew a kinship most musicians have with each other, born of mutual respect and camaraderie.

"Louie Reyes was also there at Bodjie's memorial. We even got to do a few shows together —the last just a couple of years ago —where we had a long, meaningful, and thoughtful conversation about life after the show.

"She was always so encouraging, always so gracious, always so kind. Louie Reyes,you will always be missed. My condolences to your family and friends," Odette said.

Among the popular songs of The New Minstrels are "Smile," "I Don't Love You Anymore," "Nothing I Want More," and "Ikaw, Ako, Tayo'y Magkakapatid."