Amalia Mendoza

by Drago BonacichLatin celebrity Amalia Mendoza (born Amalia Mendoza García) was born and raised in the bosom of a traditional Mexican family involved with folk music. She began her solo career in 1954 while singing on a radio show. In the late '50s, los Tariácuri (name taken from her brothers band) started making successful records and getting along with the most popular local artists. Soon after, her songs "Amarga Navidad," "Echame a Mi la Culpa," and "Te Parto el Alma" became Mexican classics. In addition, her sister, Perla Mendoza, teamed up with her to assemble a duo called las Tariacuristas, also known as Zirahuén and las Adelitas.
Amalia Mendoza was honored by the city of Los Angeles, CA, and named lady mayor ad perpetuam of San Antonio, TX, for her contribution to popular music. The legendary singer passed away on June 11, 2001, after suffering progressive paralysis of the lungs.