About

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This website is dedicated to the loving memory of Matthew Gutierrez, whose legacy as a musician, entrepreneur, and designer continues to inspire those who knew him.  All written content has been created and curated by Joy Baca Gutierrez to honor his legacy. 

A native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Matthew was a successful local entrepreneur with a deep love for music. His musical journey began at the age of six when his father, Gilbert Gutierrez, introduced him to the guitar.  Gilbert introduced Matthew to Tejano music, and among his early influences was the legendary Sunny Ozuna, alongside other artists, who played a key role in inspiring his passion.

Matthew’s first professional musical experience came as a guitarist for Musicos de Cristo, a local band in Albuquerque. This group reimagined traditional rancheras and cumbias, using the music to glorify God. After graduating from Valley High School in 1996, where he studied music under the guidance of Ben Perea, Matthew's career as a guitarist, composer, and producer quickly grew. His work with Crossroads in Albuquerque propelled him into the broader music scene, leading him to Texas, where his career as a musician and entrepreneur blossomed even further.

Matthew wasn’t just a musician; he was also a visionary entrepreneur. Alongside his wife, Joy, Matthew co-founded several successful local businesses that eventually became part of the Crossroads Enterprises catalog. Together with his father-in-law, Phil Baca, the trio expanded their business portfolio, which included CR Music & Entertainment, CR Records, Capri Media, and Heritage Audio Visual. Matthew thrived in the world of business because it allowed him the creative freedom to execute his bold ideas and vision.

Matthew’s personal life was just as rich and meaningful as his professional achievements. In September 2005, he married his high school sweetheart, Joy. Despite being told that having children would not be possible, the couple was blessed with a daughter, Jazmine. The bond between Matthew and Joy was uniquely strong because they were not only partners in marriage but also in business. They first connected through music, and early on, they learned how to balance their professional and personal lives in a way that made their relationship special. Matthew and Joy shared nearly 30 years together, 18 of those years as husband and wife.

Tragically, on Sunday, October 22, 2023, Matthew unexpectedly went to be with the Lord. His loss has created a deep void, yet the outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and the community has been nothing short of overwhelming. Many have come together to celebrate Matthew’s life and preserve his legacy, honoring his contributions to music, his entrepreneurial vision, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. You can read Matthew’s full obituary here.   

Fortunately, Matthew was already working on new music for the band Crossroads and had begun a worship project for his wife, Joy. June 2023 marked the last time Matthew and Joy performed together on stage. Shortly after that final recorded performance, Matthew reached out to his longtime friend Gilbert Velasquez to produce the song “Cariño Nuevo,” featuring the signature accordion and large horn section he was known for. In the summer of 2025, Joy began working with Gilbert to complete the recordings, honoring Matthew’s musical legacy and his final wishes. Today, “Cariño Nuevo” lives on in a new way—presented in two styles: a Tejano ranchera and a romantic bolero.

Joy and Jazmine are deeply grateful for the support they’ve received as they carry on Matthew’s artistic and personal legacy.

A special bible verse for that was recited at Matthew's funeral is  from Isaiah 40:31 NLT

"But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint."