Fans in Brazil and beyond are grieving the devastating loss of singer Vanessa Rios. She has died at just 42 years old after a long and brave fight against cancer.
Vanessa, who was still performing as recently as this summer in the United States, passed away on October 25 in a hospital where she was being treated for a rare and aggressive type of lung cancer.
From her beginnings in her hometown to national recognition
Vanessa was born in Jaboatão dos Guararapes in the Greater Recife area. Her path to stardom was truly inspiring.
She first stepped into the spotlight in 2010 when she joined Encosta Neu, a group based in Brasília. Two years later, she found success with her breakout song titled Red Sheet while singing with the band Boa Toda.
Her popularity grew even more in 2014 when she won a television contest that named her the new lead singer of Kitara, taking over for the group’s former vocalist.
Her electric performances and incredible voice made her stand out wherever she went. Fans quickly fell in love with her energy, and she soon found herself sharing the stage with major forró groups like Forró do Muído and Capim com Mel.
One fan paid tribute online, saying that she brought light to every stage and that her voice held both happiness and sorrow in every note.
Reaching beyond Brazil
Vanessa’s last show in her home country took place on April 12 at the Playlist Festival in Olinda. She performed alongside the iconic forró group Limão com Mel for a live DVD recording.
She laughed and interacted with the crowd, asking them to cheer if they were feeling happy. She told the audience how wonderful it felt to be with them again.
She was not finished performing yet. In June 2025, she took the stage one more time during a Saint John’s Day celebration in Florida.
Her husband, Joe Ridenhour, later confirmed that it would be her final performance as her health began to decline afterward. Vanessa had moved to the United States with Joe to pursue new opportunities in music while continuing her cancer treatments, according to G1.
A fierce fight against a rare disease
Vanessa’s cancer struggle began years earlier. In 2019, she was diagnosed with a sarcoma in her leg and fought through treatment until she was declared fully recovered. She celebrated the moment, proudly saying she was completely cured.
Her joy did not last long. In 2023, she received the news that she had pulmonary synovial sarcoma. The illness is rare, aggressive, and most often affects young adults.
Even with the difficult battle ahead of her, she never stopped singing. She kept performing through chemotherapy and remained a symbol of determination and hope to everyone who followed her journey.
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In her last Instagram message posted in late September, she shared a heartfelt reminder:
“It isn’t about what we possess. It is about the people who stay with us. Family is what holds us steady when life becomes difficult.”
Since her passing, that post has been filled with thousands of loving messages from admirers, friends, and fellow musicians honoring her memory.
A final goodbye surrounded by love
On Tuesday, October 28, a cremation ceremony was held for Vanessa at Guararapes Memorial Cemetery in her hometown. Her family, close friends, and many fans gathered to say a final goodbye.
She is survived by her daughter Larissa, who is 16 years old. Vanessa often described her as her biggest joy and the source of her happiest moments.
Through tears, Larissa spoke at the service. She said that the love they shared is immeasurable. She acknowledged the pain of losing her mother but felt comfort knowing that her suffering is over. She shared that her mother is now in a peaceful place and will remain forever in their hearts.
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Vanessa’s mother, Ana Nelma Alves Piedade, spoke about the family’s grief and gratitude. She said their hearts feel heavy, but they cannot be selfish after seeing how much Vanessa endured. She thanked God for giving her daughter peace and called her a little warrior who will continue to shine in heaven.
Her father also shared that in her final days, Vanessa asked for peace. He explained that she wanted freedom from the constant pain. Losing her is devastating, but the family feels comfort knowing she is finally resting.
A legacy that will continue
Vanessa Rios became an important voice in Brazilian brega and forró music. During her 15 years on stage, she performed with some of the most beloved bands in the country and developed a strong and loyal fanbase. More than 680 thousand people followed her life and music on Instagram.
She was admired not only for her talent but also for her bravery, her kindness, and the way she showed appreciation for the people around her. Everyone who met her or listened to her felt her impact.
One fan left a powerful message on her last post. They wrote that she kept singing even while she was hurting. They thanked her for showing what true strength looks like. They ended by saying that heaven has gained a beautiful voice.