Chilean singer Cecilia “La Incomparable” died at the age of 79

The Chilean singer Cecilia Pantoja Levibetter known as Cecilia “La Incomparable”, died early this Tuesday at the age of 79 after spending almost two weeks in Chile due to lung disease.

In a statement published on social networks, the family of one of the icons of Chilean music announced that she died “surrounded by her loved ones.”

Thank you for all the love sent during these days. Our sadness is maximum. Our sadness is maximum ”, indicated.

Born in 1943 in Tomé, in the Biobío region (south), Cecilia was one of the greatest exponents of the New Wave, the first great phenomenon of massive popular music sales in Chile that emerged in the early 1960s.

“Baño de Mar a Medianoche”, “Puré de papas”, “Dilo Calladito”, “Se ha puesta el sol” and “Tango de Las Rosas” are some of the hits by Pantoja Levi, who won the Viña del Mar Song Festival in 1965.

Cecilia distinguished herself from her New Wave peers by indulging in genres such as bolero, Italian tango and rock and roll and was recognized in 2016 with the President of the Republic National Music Award, one of the most important in Chile.

The death of the singer, who had been away from the stage for years and suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), has caused countless reactions, especially in the world of culture.

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, Jaime de Aguirre, said that “his phenomenal talent and creative diversity raised his voice”, which he described as “unique on the local scene”.

“Those unforgettable songs and their vibrant attitude marked and inspired so many generations, who will leave an indelible mark on our culture. A loving hug to his family and friends.” De Aguirre said.

Among the artists who said goodbye to Cecilia in their networks, is Anita Tijouxwho thanked her for being a “teacher” and defined her as “eternal and incomparable”.

The Inti-Illimani Histórico group referred to it as “The Song that never shuts up”, while the group Los Bunker assured that “their music remains in the heart of their people”.

“The entire country owes him an unforgettable farewell, like his figure and work, the waves of his song and the sand in each step we have taken singing his hymns. Make way for the unique and fabulous sovereign made a star”, Denisse Malebran published for her part.

With information from EFE