“La señora de la canción.” That’s what Rocío Dúrcal’s Mexican fans called her. Today we stand at the Glorieta de Rocío Dúrcal a tribute to a remarkable artist.
This glorieta honors María de los Ángeles de las Heras Ortiz. She was born in Madrid’s Cuatro Caminos neighborhood in 1944. The city inaugurated this space in her name. It happened on March 23 2007.
Rocío Dúrcal was more than just a singer. She was an icon. As a child, she attended Instituto de La Paloma. It was near here. She often visited her grandfather. The Glorieta de Rocío Dúrcal is located close to where she lived.
Madrid’s mayor Alberto Ruiz-Gallardón opened this glorieta. It sits where Pablo Iglesias Ofelia Nieto and Francos Rodríguez streets meet. The city wanted to forever link her name to Madrid.
Rocío Dúrcal received more awards than any other Hispanic artist. She successfully transitioned from child prodigy to acclaimed performer. Her career included acting and singing.
She starred in many films. Her discography boasts over 30 albums. Rocío Dúrcal sold 40 million copies. This made her Spain’s best-selling female soloist. She earned many gold and platinum records.
Mexico deeply admired Rocío Dúrcal. She became a leading ambassador of Mexican music. Critics ranked her among the top four female vocalists. Lola Beltrán Lucha Villa and Amalia Mendoza were also in this elite group.
Rocío Dúrcal won several ACE awards. The Association of Entertainment Critics of New York honored her. She won Best Female Singer in 1985. In 1993 she won Best Album. That year she was also named Best International Artist and awarded for Best Concert at the Paramount.
She received six Grammy nominations. In 2005 the Latin Recording Academy awarded her the Grammy for Musical Excellence.
After her death on March 25 2006 the city council acted. On April 26 2006 they unanimously agreed to name a public space after her. This glorieta became her lasting memorial.
Mayor Ruiz-Gallardón praised her generosity. He also noted her drive and cosmopolitan spirit. Her repertoire included songs from many countries. Mexico held a special place in her heart. Rocío is remembered fondly on both sides of the Atlantic.
The mayor noted Rocío Dúrcal grew up during difficult times in Madrid. However the city offered opportunities. She found them and made the most of them.
So as we stand here at the Fuente de la Glorieta de Rocío Dúrcal, remember “la señora de la canción”. She was a beloved artist a true Madrid icon and a musical bridge between Spain and Mexico.