Fans of famed Colombian salsa singer Jairo Varela, who died Wednesday, will have the chance to pay their last tribute to the artist in a church in Cali.
Starting Thursday afternoon the Evangelista Mora church will open its doors to any fans of Varela who wish to say goodbye to the beloved artist. On Sunday, Grupo Niche will play in the church to honor their singer and founder, Varela’s press officer Rosa Gonzalez told El Pais.
Details of the Varela’s funeral are not yet confirmed but it will most likely take place this Sunday in Cali, according to his daughter Yanila Varela.
Varela was found dead at his home in Cali on Wednesday afternoon after suffering a heart attack. The Quibdo-born singer had been experiencing heart problems for some time.
The death of Varela, who was dubbed “the genius of Colombian salsa,” has sent a shock wave around the country. Thousands of salsa fans have already paid tribute to the singer on social media and thousands more are expected to pilgrimage to Cali to show their respect.
After founding Grupo Niche in 1978, the 62-year-old singer created some of the most memorable salsa songs in history, such as “Buenaventura y Caney,” “Una Aventura,” and “Cali Pachanguero.”
Varela’s daughter Yanila will now allegedly direct Grupo Niche together with salsa singer Juan Miguel, reports El Espectador.