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Remembering Jenni Rivera, Valley Hispanic Community Pays Tribute to Star

By Angela Greenwood, KSEE24 News
December 10, 2012 Updated Dec 10, 2012 at 7:22 PM PDT

For decades, Jenni Rivera was a hit in the Mexican music scene, and along the way the singer earned a very large following. A lot of that following is right here in the Valley.

Her songs played over and over again on Spanish radio stations across the Valley Monday. Local disc jockey's honored the life of international singing sensation, Jenni Rivera.

Radio Fiesta local deejay Ray Ponze says, "I've been playing her music for the past 12 years I think."

Jose Anaya, Que Onda 92.1 Producer says, "She was known as The Great Lady...La Grand Senora.

It was her soulful voice and a down to earth attitude that launched Rivera to stardom.

"A lot of people liked her and I think that shows a real sense of her character and how she came across to people and that she was real," Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President John Hernandez.

That stardom came to a tragic end Sunday. Rivera was killed in a plane crash. Her death has left a void among fans.

"She was a very dynamic woman, very creative and I think it's a big loss, a big loss for the Hispanic community."

"It was unbelievable when we woke up on Sunday and they said her plane was lost. We were all sad and praying that it wasn't true."

Anjelica Banda followed the singer for years. She even went to a couple of Rivera's concerts in the Valley.

Banda says, "In that area that she was in, it was most men-dominated, so for her to be there was very good. So we're gonna miss her music and her as a person."

Rivera was born and raised in Long Beach and she was open about her struggles. Woman idolized the star because she was strong and real.

"She came from nothing, she had nothing. She said she used to sell music at the flea market."

Fans say they will miss Rivera's powerful performances and zest for life. But even though she's gone, her voice and music will never fade.

"In my heart, she's still alive," says Ponze.

Rivera was also a reality TV star. She had her own show on Mundo and was judge on Mexico's version of "The Voice." She had recently signed a contract with ABC to launch her own comedy sitcom.

Rivera was 43-years-old. She leaves behind five children.

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