Leonidas Moreno, known as the "Queen of Saloma", is celebrating her 76 years of life with an event that is, in itself, a tribute to more than six uninterrupted decades of dedication to traditional musical art. Moreno's voice is not just an accompaniment, but a defining force that has set the rhythm of the Panamanian folk heart. Hailing from Llano Abajo, in the province of Los Santos, Leonidas's talent blossomed from a young age. She began singing at the tender age of 14, demonstrating a premature commitment that led her to perform on stages even before her teenage years. Her first steps were fundamental, working with respected groups of the era, including the ensembles of maestro Fito Espino and Teresín Jaén. Her legacy not only enriches folklore but also ensures that the tradition of saloma will endure for many more generations. She is considered a role model for an entire generation of female artists in the genre. Figures of the stature of Sandra Sandoval, Eira González (Plumas Negras), and Nerys Pérez (Manantial de Amores) cite her as a source of admiration and a standard of professionalism and vocal quality. This concert is more than a party; it is a tribute of honors, with a lineup that includes heavyweights of typical music: Alfredo Escudero and Los Montañeros, Nenito Vargas and Plumas Negras, and Alejandro Torres and Las Estrellas del Ritmo. In her more than six decades, she has demonstrated that passion can translate into a long and respected career. To commemorate her 76 years, the "Queen of Saloma" is headlining a major event today in Fucer, on the road to Cerro Azul. The celebration, which will include mariachis and surprises, underscores her status as an untouchable icon.
The voice of "Mamá Leoni" and her secrets In her personal life, Leonidas Moreno, affectionately known as "Mamá Leoni", is a mother of three and a grandmother of four. Despite the demanding performance schedule that accompanies her career, she has known how to balance family life with artistic rigor. In recent statements, she has shared her secret for maintaining that powerful voice: constant care, which involves prioritizing hydration and strictly avoiding dew and cold drinks. Leonidas Moreno is, without a doubt, a living cultural heritage of Panama. These formative years forged the discipline and vocal technique that would later become her personal hallmark.
Musical alliance with Fello Escudero The turning point in her career came when she joined the accordionist Alfredo "Fello" Escudero, a musical — and real — marriage that has become one of the strongest and most enduring alliances in the history of Panamanian music.
As the lead vocalist of "Los Montañeros", Leonidas Moreno has been the interpreter of immortal hits that have been engraved in the collective memory, such as "Who commands the heart?", "I will always love you", and "The Heartbreaker". Her saloma, that strong and vibrant characteristic folk chant, is the unmistakable signature that distinguishes the group.
Legacy of a teacher and role model Beyond albums and sales, the greatest contribution of Leonidas Moreno lies in her impact as an inspiration.
