The world of Mexican music is mourning the loss of an iconic voice. Dulce La Cantante, whose soulful melodies and powerful presence made her one of the most beloved figures in Latin music, passed away at the age of 69. Her family shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook on December 25, confirming her death with a statement that read: “It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of our beloved singer, Dulce. đïž We appreciate your support and respect for the family during these difficult times.”
Her sister, Isabel Noeggerath, also took to social media to express her grief, writing a touching tribute: “Sister, you’re already with our mom in heaven singing to her, I’m going to miss you. Rest in peace. I love you.” The loss is felt not only by her family but by the countless fans who grew up with Dulceâs music as the soundtrack to their lives.
Dulce, born Bertha Elisa Noeggerath Cårdenas on December 26, 1955, in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, was much more than just a singer. Her voice transcended generations and borders, captivating audiences around the world. Her career began in the 1970s with the group Toby y Sus Amigos, but it was in the 1980s that she truly began to shine as a solo artist, thanks in part to the guidance of the legendary José José.
Among her most cherished hits were âDĂ©jame Volver Contigo,â âSoy Tu Dama,â âLobo,â and âTu Muñeca.â These songs became classics in the Latin music genre, showcasing her distinctive voice and ability to evoke deep emotion in her listeners. But Dulceâs contributions werenât limited to the music world. She also graced the small screen with appearances in several soap operas, and her most recent venture into television was as a star on Netflix’s reality series Siempre Reinas (Forever Queens), which brought her into the spotlight once again, endearing her to a new generation of fans.
In 2022, Dulce toured with the musical group Grandiosas, continuing to share her gift with the world. It was a testament to her unwavering passion for performing, even as her health began to decline.
Earlier in 2024, Dulceâs family shared that the singer had been diagnosed with a tumor, which had left her hospitalized. In August, it was revealed that the tumor was cancerous and had spread to her kidney. Despite the difficult diagnosis, Dulce remained determined to keep fighting, and she continued to share updates with her fans on social media. She underwent a major surgical procedure in December to address complications from the tumor, and although she was hopeful for a recovery, her condition remained critical.
On December 2, Dulce posted on Instagram, assuring fans that she was under medical care and “in good hands,” expressing optimism for a full recovery. However, the following week, her son-in-law, MoisĂ©s GonzĂĄlez, confirmed that Dulce had experienced a setback, suffering from pneumonia and requiring additional surgery. “She is still exhausted from the operation. It was a rather complex operation, and she is in a lot of pain,” GonzĂĄlez shared with De Primera Mano (Imagen TV). “They are giving her strong medication to help manage the pain, but it makes her very sleepy and exhausted.”
Her health struggles were compounded by her bodyâs need to heal after surgery, making recovery a slow and taxing process. Despite the challenges, Dulceâs strength and resilience were evident throughout her illness, and she continued to inspire those around her.
Dulceâs official Instagram account shared a video montage in tribute to the singer, featuring images from her life and career. The caption read: “With a career that transcended borders and genres, Dulce became one of the most iconic voices Mexico has given, a legacy that makes us vibrate and reflect. But beyond her talent and her success, Dulce was a woman who taught us to believe in ourselves, to chase our dreams, and to never give up.”
Her influence on the Latin music world is undeniable, and her passing leaves a void that will be felt for years to come. Fans and fellow musicians alike remember Dulce not just for her extraordinary talent, but for her ability to inspire others. She proved that success was not just about fame, but about resilience, passion, and a deep connection with her audience. Dulceâs music will continue to resonate, her voice will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her story will inspire generations to come.
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