Rogério Valença, former Calcinha Preta vocalist, dies at 55

Singer Rogério Valença, a former vocalist for the electronic forró band Calcinha Preta, has died at the age of 55. The musician passed away in Aracaju, Sergipe, following a heart attack.

Valença had been battling renal failure and was undergoing regular hemodialysis sessions while awaiting a kidney transplant. His death was confirmed by his family and his current musical group, Raio da Silibrina.

Valença gained national prominence between 1998 and 2000 as a member of Calcinha Preta, contributing to several albums and performing hits such as ‘Eterno Amor’ and ‘Louca por Você’. Throughout his career, he also performed with other groups, including Caviar com Rapadura and Mulheres Perdidas.

Following a wake in Aracaju, his body was transported to his hometown of Garanhuns, Pernambuco, for burial. Members of Calcinha Preta and Raio da Silibrina released statements expressing grief and honoring his musical legacy.