Fans across Brazil and beyond are mourning singer Vanessa Rios, who passed away at just 42 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Vanessa rose to fame in 2010 with the group Encosta Neu and later with Boa Toda, gaining national attention after winning a TV competition to become the lead singer of Kitara in 2014. Known for her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt performances, she also sang with top forró bands like Forró do Muído and Capim com Mel.
Her final concert in Brazil took place in April at the Playlist Festival in Olinda, followed by a last performance in June 2025 at a Saint John’s Day event in Florida, where she lived with her American husband, Joe Ridenhour.
Vanessa first battled sarcoma in 2019 and celebrated recovery, but in 2023 she was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive lung cancer. Despite the pain, she continued to perform, inspiring fans with her strength and optimism. In her final Instagram post, she wrote: “It’s not what we have in life, but who we have in our lives that matters.”
She was cremated on October 28 in her hometown, surrounded by loved ones. She leaves behind her 16-year-old daughter, Larissa, her “greatest blessing.”
Vanessa Rios’s voice helped define a generation of Brazilian brega and forró music. Her courage, warmth, and passion touched countless lives.
“You sang through the pain and showed us real strength,” one fan wrote. “Heaven just gained the most beautiful voice.” 💔🕊️