From Local Talent to National Icon
Born in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, part of Brazil’s Greater Recife region, Vanessa’s journey from local performer to national sensation was nothing short of inspiring.
Her music career took off in 2010, when she joined the Brasília-based group Encosta Neu. Two years later, she gained national recognition with her breakout hit “Lençol Vermelho” (Red Sheet) as part of the band Boa Toda.
In 2014, she captured the country’s attention after winning a televised contest to become the new lead singer of Kitara, taking over for the group’s former vocalist. Her stage charisma, emotional depth, and powerhouse vocals made her a household name. She went on to perform with other renowned forró groups such as Forró do Muído and Capim com Mel.
“She lit up every stage she ever stepped on,” one fan wrote. “Her voice carried both joy and pain — she made you feel every lyric.”
Dreams Beyond Brazil
Vanessa’s final concert in Brazil was on April 12, at the Playlist Festival in Olinda, where she joined the legendary Limão com Mel for a live DVD recording. She was radiant on stage, joking with fans and shouting, “Make some noise if you’re happy!”
Just two months later, in June 2025, she gave her final performance at a Saint John’s Day celebration in Florida, where she had been living with her American husband, Joe Ridenhour. According to G1, Vanessa had been working to expand her career internationally while continuing treatment for her illness.
A Fierce Fight Against a Rare Cancer
Vanessa’s health struggles began in 2019, when doctors diagnosed her with a sarcoma in her leg. After successful treatment, she declared herself “100% cured” and joyfully returned to music.
Tragically, in 2023, she was diagnosed again — this time with pulmonary synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects young adults. Despite the grim outlook, Vanessa continued to sing, perform, and inspire.
Even during chemotherapy, she radiated positivity and strength, reminding her fans that hope could outshine pain.
In her final Instagram post in late September, she shared words that now feel prophetic:
“It’s not what we have in life, but who we have in our lives that matters. That’s what truly matters – family is the anchor that keeps us steady through life’s storms.”
The post has since become a memorial, filled with thousands of heartfelt tributes from fans and fellow artists alike.
A Farewell Full of Love
Vanessa was cremated on October 28 at the Guararapes Memorial Cemetery in her hometown. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and countless admirers, was filled with emotion and gratitude for a life that touched so many.
She leaves behind her 16-year-old daughter, Larissa, whom she often called her “greatest blessing and reason to smile.”
Through tears, Larissa said:
“We can’t measure the love we have for her. The pain will always remain, but I feel relief knowing she’s no longer suffering. She’s in a better place now — and she’ll always be in our hearts.”
Her mother, Ana Nelma Alves Piedade, added:
“Our hearts are heavy, but we can’t be selfish. She suffered so much. We thank God for taking her to rest. My little warrior will shine in heaven.”
Even her father shared that in her final days, Vanessa had asked for peace:
“She told us she wanted to be free from the pain. It’s heartbreaking, but we take comfort in knowing she’s finally resting.”
A Voice That Will Never Be Forgotten
Over her 15-year career, Vanessa Rios became one of the defining voices of modern brega and forró music. She collaborated with some of Brazil’s most beloved bands and built a devoted social media following of more than 680,000 fans.
Her legacy is one of passion, resilience, and authenticity — a reminder that true artistry comes from the soul.
“You sang through the pain,” one fan wrote. “You showed us what real strength looks like. Heaven just gained the most beautiful voice.”
Vanessa Rios’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility, but her music, her courage, and her love for her family will continue to echo through the hearts of those she inspired.
💔 Sending deepest condolences to her family, especially her daughter Larissa. May Vanessa’s light — and her unforgettable voice — live on forever. 🕊️💐
