The music world is mourning the loss of Dulce, the iconic Mexican singer, who passed away at the age of 69. Confirmed by her sister Isabel Noeggerath, the news broke on December 25, 2024, overwhelming fans and the entertainment industry alike.
Dulce, born Bertha Elisa Noeggerath Cárdenas on July 29, 1954, started her musical career at the age of 20 when she joined the band "Toby y sus amigos". After relocating to Mexico City, she garnered attention with her powerful voice, officially launching her solo career with the help of renowned singer José José.
Known for her unforgettable hits such as "Tu muñeca", "Soy una dama", and "Aún lo amo", Dulce quickly became one of the most recognizable figures in Latin music. Throughout her career, which began in 1974, she has impressed audiences across generations, establishing herself as one of the most significant voices of romantic music.
Unfortunately, Dulce faced severe health challenges leading up to her death. Earlier this month, she was hospitalized due to complications from pneumonia and underwent emergency surgery for decortication of the pleura—a procedure necessary to treat the fibrous tissue compressing her lungs. Reports revealed she had also fought against lung cancer.
On December 2, she shared her health struggles with fans via social media, expressing confidence about her upcoming recovery: “Dear friends, media, and the audience who always accompany me, I want to share with you... I am hospitalized to address health issues requiring care and rest. I’m calm, in good hands, and confident I will soon be fully recovered.” But tragically, her condition deteriorated after the surgery, leading to her premature death.
One of the first to confirm her passing was journalist Maria Luisa Valdés Doria, who reported her death occurred at 9 AM on Christmas morning at Hospital Ángeles, following complications related to her health conditions.
The news has ignited widespread grief across social media, with many fans and fellow artists expressing their heartache. Isabel Noeggerath poignantly stated, “Sister, you are now with our mother singing to her in heaven. I will miss you, rest peacefully. I love you.” This heartfelt message encapsulates the loss felt within both her family and the broader community.
Throughout her career, Dulce earned several accolades and was part of the popular concert series "Grandiosas," collaborating with other female artists and showcasing her musical prowess even later in her career.
Not just restricted to music, Dulce also made significant television appearances, garnering admiration for her talent as both singer and actress. Shows such as "Siempre Reinas" on Netflix allowed her to connect with new audiences, sharing highlights from her storied career.
Her influence extended beyond her music; she spoke openly about her relationships, including her deep affection for the late actor Gonzalo Vega. Their love story, marked by its controversy due to their age difference, has remained part of her narrative, where she described him as her first great love.
Despite the ups and downs of her personal life, Dulce's contributions to the arts and performance will be remembered. Her song interpretation, rich emotion, and captivating persona marked her as one of the notable leading ladies of Mexican music.
The entire entertainment industry reflects on her legacy with fondness and admiration, celebrating the strength, resilience, and creativity she embodied. Her songs will continue to resonate with fans, ensuring her memory lingers long after her passing.
While the world has lost one of its great voices, the impact of Dulce's music and spirit will remain alive through generations. A true icon has departed, but her influence will echo forever.
