Most Respected Samba Singer In Brazil, Elza Soares Dies

JAKARTA - Elza Soares, one of Brazil's most respected samba singers, died at his home in Rio de Janeiro, Thursday, January 20 local time. Elza died at the age of 91. He died of old age.

Quoted from Reuters, Friday, January 21, Elza was born in the slums of Rio de Janeiro to parents who worked as a washerwoman and factory worker in 1930, Soares emerged from a life of poverty to become a singer with 36 albums and performed at the opening of the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

His hoarse voice touched the hearts of audiences around the world in concert hall performances, bringing songs about the hardships of life in Rio, justice for women and racism in Brazilian society.

She was a prominent black feminist there, and often voiced the fight against violence against women.

"Racism continues, but we will fight it and make changes. Racism is a disease," said Soares, quoted from ANTARA, January 21.

In 1966, Soares married football star Mane Garrincha, the striker who helped Brazil win the 1958 and 1962 World Cups with the legendary Pele.

Their relationship ended after 17 years, Soares left Garrincha after he hit him during their fight. Garrincha died of cirrhosis in 1983. Elza Soares followed on the same day 39 years later.