The Pearl of Cadiz - Andalusia

Antonia Gilabert Vargas (1924 – September 14, 1975), better known by her stage name La Perla de Cádiz, was a Spanish gypsy flamenco singer. His father was guitarist Juan Gilabert and his mother was singer Rosa Vargas Fernández, known as Rosa la Papera.

In 1960 he made his debut at the Tablao Zambra in Madrid . In 1962 he won the Bulerías first prize at the Jerez National Song Contest. She was later engaged by the Sevillian tablaos Los Gallos and El Guajiro. A year later, however, she returned to Madrid and was hired by Manolo Caracol to open his Tablao Los Canasteros. In 1968 he won first prize at the I Certamen de los Cantes de Cadiz. He died in Cádiz in 1975 at the age of 51 .

He was characterized by the following styles: Alegrías, Bulerías, Soleares, Tientos, Tangos and Saetas. Also for his excellent compass and his mastery of interpretation. Today a Flemish club in Cadiz bears his name.

Willem Vandenameele