Google Doodle honors the Mexican actress and singer Lola Beltrán, who was born on this day in 1932 in El Rosario, Sinaloa. Beltrán is widely regarded as one of the most influential and acclaimed performers of ranchera and huapango music, a genre that originated in rural Mexico and expresses the joys and sorrows of the people.
Beltrán began her career as a secretary at a radio station in Mexico City, where she impressed the listeners with her powerful and expressive voice. She soon became a star of the radio show Así es mi tierra, where she met the songwriter Tomás Méndez, who composed some of her most famous songs, such as “Cucurrucucú paloma” and “Tres días”.
Beltrán also ventured into the world of cinema and television, appearing in dozens of films and shows, often showcasing her musical talent. She collaborated with other icons of Mexican culture, such as Emilio Fernández, María Félix, Juan Gabriel, and Lucha Villa. She was nicknamed Lola la Grande (“Lola the Great”) for her charisma and artistic excellence.
Beltrán’s music transcended borders and reached international audiences, especially in Latin America, Europe, and Asia. She performed in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Olympia Theatre, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Also she sang before world leaders, such as Pope John Paul II, Queen Elizabeth II, and Fidel Castro. She was honored with numerous awards and recognitions, such as the Golden Ariel, the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and the National Prize of Arts and Sciences.
Table biography of Lola Beltrán, the Mexican actress and singer
| Name | María Lucila Beltrán Ruiz |
|---|---|
| Birth date | March 7, 1932 |
| Birth place | El Rosario, Sinaloa, Mexico |
| Death date | March 24, 1996 |
| Death place | Mexico City, Mexico |
| Nickname | Lola la Grande |
| Occupation | Singer, actress, television presenter |
| Genre | Ranchera, huapango |
| Years active | 1940-1996 |
| Awards | Golden Ariel, Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, National Prize of Arts and Sciences |
| Famous songs | “Cucurrucucú paloma”, “Paloma negra”, “Soy infeliz” |
| Famous films | La Bandida, El cantor del circo, Una gallina muy ponedora |
| Spouse | Alfredo Leal |
| Children | María Elena Leal |
Beltrán died in 1996 at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy of more than 70 albums and a devoted fan base. Today, we celebrate her life and music with this colorful doodle, inspired by her vibrant style and the folkloric motifs of her songs. ¡Viva Lola!
