Rubén Blades Mourns Death of Venezuelan Impersonator Jhonny Heredia
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Panamanian singer Rubén Blades expressed sorrow over the death of Venezuelan impersonator Jhonny Heredia.
- Heredia, known for portraying Blades, passed away on Saturday, June 13.
- A planned tribute concert for Heredia in Baruta, Venezuela, was suspended following his death.
Panamanian artist Rubén Blades publicly mourned the passing of Venezuelan performer Jhonny Heredia, who was widely known for his impersonations of Blades. Blades shared his condolences via Instagram, expressing gratitude for Heredia's work.
"I don't know what produced such a regrettable situation. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones and express my gratitude to my colleague for his work and support of our work and figure. Thank you Jhonny, and may God always watch over you!" Blades wrote.
Heredia died on Saturday, June 13, just hours before he was scheduled to perform at a reunion show in Bello Monte, Baruta. The news of his death was also shared by journalist Maryorin Méndez on social media, who offered words of solidarity to his family.
In response to Heredia's death, the Baruta Mayor's Office announced the suspension of a musical tribute planned for him in the municipality's public spaces. The local government issued a statement acknowledging Heredia's impact on salsa music fans and his significant career in embodying the Panamanian composer.
I don't know what produced such a regrettable situation. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones and express my gratitude to my colleague for his work and support of our work and figure. Thank you Jhonny, and may God always watch over you!
Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.