Lover to Frida Kahlo and a favorite of Pedro Almodovar's, world-famous singer and guitarist Chavela Vargas's fierce masculine style--bandanas, ponchos, pants, and cigars--suited her gravelly yet evocative sound. Described by Almodovar as "the rough voice of tenderness," Vargas, who died last year at 93, remained closeted until she was 81, when she finally said, in a voice proud and respected, "I was born this way."
Watch a clip of her singing "En El Ultimo Trago" live below:
I watched the Kid Rock Turning Point USA halftime show so you don't have to
Opinion: "I have no problem with lip syncing, but you'd think the side that hates drag queens so much would have a little more shame about it," writes Ryan Adamczeski.