Consuelo Silva

She was born in Brownsville, Texas August 25, 1922, the eldest of seven children.[1] As a teen, Silva performed with her school and church, eventually performing locally with a local group, Tito Crixell Orchestra.

Silva became popular in Brownsville and was invited to perform on Americo Paredes' radio show. Silva continued to perform on the radio, as well as at the Continental Club in Corpus Christi, Texas, gaining popularity quickly through her spin on the romantic song style.[1] She signed to Falcon Records in 1952, and her star rose throughout the Southwest.[1] Peerless Records soon began to distribute her recordings in Mexico, and her fame became international.[1] She was then signed to Columbia Records in 1955, gaining even more fame. Usually accompanied by a guitar trio, She became known as "La Reina de Los Boleros". She toured the United States, Mexico, and South America through the 1980s.[1]

She performed with some of the great stars of her time, including José Alfredo Jiménez, Javier Solís, and Lola Beltrán.[1]

Silva and Paredes were married in 1939, shortly after they had met on his radio show. They later got divorced after being married for a few years. Silva and Paredes had a son, Americo Paredes Jr., during their marriage.[2] Silva also married Leopoldo Morales Perez, with whom she had a daughter, Garnette Perez, and 2 sons, Rene and Les Perez.[2]

Silva was inducted the Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Hall of Fame in 2004. She was also inducted into the South Texas Music Walk of Fame.[1]

Silva died of cancer on April 2nd, 1988, in Corpus Christi, Texas.[1]

Among her most popular hits are "Está Sellado," "Sabes de Qué Tengo Ganas," "Amor Aventurero," and "Soy Bohemia."[1]

• Texas State Historical Association