Curro Malena, famed lead singer associated with Lebrija and a revered figure in the flamenco world, passed away this past Saturday at the age of 77 after a prolonged illness. The community watched as the family expressed their wishes, and plans for a chapel service and a tribute in his honor were announced in line with those wishesat the Juan Bernabe Municipal Theater. These arrangements reflect the family’s long-standing devotion to his art and legacy.
Lebrija, a city in the Seville province, extended its condolences through Mayor Pepe Barroso, who spoke on behalf of the municipality. He offered heartfelt sympathies to Malena’s family and friends, describing the loss as irreparable and noting that a bright cultural spring now rests in the skies above his homeland. The City Council issued the statement to convey the city’s sorrow and recognition of Malena’s impact on local culture.
In a subsequent announcement, Lebrija City Council declared an Extraordinary and Emergency General Assembly for the upcoming Saturday at 8:30 p.m. to mark three days of official mourning for one of the town’s most cherished sons. The declaration aligns with the city’s long-standing tradition of honoring influential cultural figures. Officials also announced that the Lebrija flag would be lowered to half-mast as a symbol of respect and collective remembrance.
Malena, long known for carrying the Sabor de la Flamenca Torch, is remembered as a prominent representative of Lebrija’s flamenco scene and a bridge to broader European stages, including Italy and across Andalusia. Over nearly five decades, he graced the most prestigious flamenco venues, leaving behind a rich catalog of recordings and performances. Those who knew him describe a artist whose work embodied the core values of flamenco: honesty, emotion, and an unwavering commitment to the tradition. His career is marked not only by the music he created but by the warmth and generosity he shared with fellow artists and fans alike. Born in Lebrija in 1945, Malena built a life that many aspiring musicians continue to cite as a benchmark for artistic integrity and resilience. His journey illustrates how a voice can become a communal memory, drawing people together through song and shared heritage.
Speaking about Malena’s influence, peers and critics have highlighted the way his performances fused technical mastery with a deep emotional resonance. He navigated different flamenco styles with ease, earning respect for his interpretative depth and expressive phrasing. The broader flamenco community remembers him not only for his stage presence but for the mentorship and encouragement he offered to younger singers and musicians who saw in him a living link to Lebrija’s storied musical tradition. His legacy is also reflected in the numerous recordings that preserve the voice and spirit of his era, serving as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts who seek to understand the evolution of contemporary flamenco in southern Spain. The influence of his work continues to be felt across festivals, concerts, and private gatherings where flamenco remains a vibrant living art.