Yma Sumac
Born in Callao, Yma Sumac became one of North America's most celebrated Musicians during the Silent Generation era.
Peruvian-American singer (1922–2008)
"Her international breakthrough came with the 1950 Capitol Records album "Voice of the Xtabay." — About Yma Sumac
| Metric | Yma Sumac | Avg Musician | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 86 | 57 | +29 yrs |
| Height | 2cm (0'1") | 121cm | -119cm |
| Career length | 68 yrs | ~35 yrs | +33 yrs |
| Based on 830 Musician profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Yma Sumac
Did you know that Yma Sumac's incredible vocal flexibility allowed her to mimic bird calls and create sounds that transcended typical human singing?
- She possessed an extraordinary vocal range, often claimed to span over four octaves, making her a vocal marvel.
- Yma Sumac consistently asserted that she was a direct descendant of the last Incan emperor, Atahualpa.
- Before adopting her stage name, she performed in Peru as Zoila Augusta Emperatriz Chávarri del Castillo.
- Her stage persona was meticulously crafted, featuring elaborate costumes and exotic jewelry inspired by pre-Columbian cultures.
- She was one of the pioneers of the "exotica" music genre, blending traditional South American sounds with Hollywood orchestral arrangements.
Her international breakthrough came with the 1950 Capitol Records album "Voice of the Xtabay." This record, showcasing her unique vocal prowess and exotic sound, catapulted her to global fame and defined the "exotica" genre.
Yma Sumac left an indelible mark as a vocal phenomenon and a key figure in the exotica movement, inspiring generations with her unparalleled range and mystique. Her unique blend of operatic and indigenous sounds continues to captivate audiences worldwide.