Lola Flores
Lola Flores
- Full name: María Dolores Flores Ruiz
- Born: November 21, 1923 in Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Spain
- Died: May 16, 1995 in Madrid, Spain
- Occupation: Singer, dancer, actress
- Genres: Flamenco, copla, Spanish folk music
- Years active: 1939–1995
Biography
Lola Flores was a Spanish singer, dancer, and actress. She was one of the most popular and successful performers in Spain during the 20th century. Flores was born in Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Spain, on November 21, 1923. She began her career as a dancer at the age of 16. In 1940, she made her film debut in Martingala. Flores went on to star in more than 30 films, including La Faraona (1946), El último cuplé (1957), and La Voz de Madrid (1958).
Flores was also a successful singer. She released more than 70 albums, including Lola Flores Canta Flamenco (1952), Lola Flores Canta Coplas (1953), and Lola Flores Canta Rumbas (1954). Flores was known for her powerful voice and her passionate performances. She was also a gifted dancer, and she often incorporated dance into her concerts.
Flores was a controversial figure during her lifetime. She was known for her outspoken personality and her flamboyant lifestyle. She was also the subject of much tabloid gossip. However, Flores remained popular with her fans, who loved her for her talent, her charisma, and her sense of humor.
Flores died of breast cancer in Madrid, Spain, on May 16, 1995. She was 71 years old. She is survived by her three children, Lolita Flores, Rosario Flores, and Antonio Flores.
Legacy
Lola Flores is considered one of the most important figures in Spanish popular culture. She was a pioneer in the field of flamenco music, and she helped to popularize the genre around the world. Flores was also a successful actress, and she starred in some of the most popular Spanish films of the 20th century.
Flores is remembered for her powerful voice, her passionate performances, and her charismatic personality. She was a true icon of Spanish culture, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Awards and honors
- 1959: Concha de Plata for Best Actress at the San Sebastián International Film Festival for El último cuplé
- 1960: Fotogramas de Plata for Best Spanish Actress for El último cuplé
- 1961: Ondas Award for Best Singer
- 1962: National Prize for Music
- 1990: Gold Medal of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences of Spain
- 1992: Honorary Doctorate from the University of Cádiz
