Ecuador mourns Paulina Tamayo, iconic singer dies at 60

Paulina Tamayo, affectionately known as "La Grande del Ecuador," died on October 21, 2025, at the age of 60 from respiratory insufficiency that led to cardiac arrest. A beloved figure in Ecuadorian traditional music, Tamayo's career spanned over four decades during which she became an ambassador for Ecuadorian and Latin American folklore, performing internationally and inspiring generations. She began her artistic journey at age seven and was celebrated for her emotionally expressive voice and mastery of genres like pasillo, albazo, and waltz. Her music, including hits such as "Imploración de amor" and "Fe perdida," remains influential and accessible through recordings and her YouTube channel. Tributes poured in from family, fellow musicians, and the Ecuadorian government, highlighting her cultural significance and enduring legacy. Her final public performance was at the Pasillo Day festivities in Quito just weeks before her death, underscoring her dedication to music until the end.