Lourdes Torres: The Unforgettable Voice of Cuban Music
Lourdes Margarita Torres Ortiz was born on April 29, 1940, in Guanabacoa, Cuba. From a young age, she demonstrated remarkable musical talent.
At just twelve years old, she began her career as a lyrical singer in the choir of professor María Adams. However, her true entry into the larger musical scene occurred under the mentorship of the renowned composer Ernesto Lecuona. Lecuona, captivated by her “warm voice” and “temperament,” affectionately nicknamed her “Comino” due to her petite stature.
Education and Early Career
Torres’ early education in music was comprehensive. She studied solfège, music theory, ballet, piano, and singing at the Conservatorio Municipal on Rastro Street in Central Havana. This rigorous training laid the foundation for her diverse and prolific musical career.
In 1961, Torres joined the vocal quartet Los Modernistas as the lead singer, replacing Yolanda Brito. She remained with the group until its dissolution in 1993, after which she resumed her career as a solo artist.
Musical Contributions and Achievements
Lourdes Torres is credited with composing over two hundred songs, many of which became popular in Cuba. Notable songs include Como cualquiera, A mi entender, and Fue así que te olvidé.
Her contributions to Cuban music extended beyond songwriting, as she occasionally delved into acting and poetry. In 1991, she performed the theme song for the XI Pan American Games held in Havana, showcasing her versatility and prominence in the Cuban cultural landscape.
Her musical talents and compositions earned her numerous awards in various music competitions, solidifying her reputation as a significant figure in Cuban music.
Jazz Plaza Festival to be held from January 18 to 23, 2022 in HavanaFamily and Collaborative Work
Torres’ musical legacy continues through her daughter, Lourdes Libertad, and granddaughter, Jessie Riffá Beci, both of whom are singers. Lourdes Libertad, born from Torres’ first marriage to actor Germán Barrios, currently resides in Miami. Jessie and Lourdes collaborated with Torres on several musical projects, including performances on children’s programs. The trio also hosted a musical gathering every Saturday known as “Peligrosamente juntas” (Dangerously Together), which highlighted their familial musical bond.
Impact and Legacy
Despite her immense popularity and influence in Cuban music, Torres never recorded a solo album. Nevertheless, her songs have been performed by many acclaimed artists, such as Omara Portuondo, Annia Linares, and Mirta Medina, ensuring that her music lives on in the voice of others.
Torres passed away in Havana on August 16, 2017, at the age of 77, due to apparent renal failure. Her death marked the end of an era for many Cuban music enthusiasts, but her contributions to the art form continue to resonate.
Remembering Lourdes Torres
Lourdes Torres remains a celebrated figure in Cuban music history. Her career, which spanned over six decades, touched countless lives and inspired numerous musicians. Her dedication to her craft, despite the highs and lows of her career, underscored her steadfast passion for music.