Juan Valderrama Blanca (24 May 1916 – 12 April 2004), better known as Juanito Valderrama, was a Spanish flamenco and folk singer. Although he was known for singing copla, he always claimed to be a flamenco singer.
Born in Torredelcampo, Juanito's recording career began in 1935 and lasted more than 60 years. Among his most famous songs is "El emigrante", written in 1949, a ballad for the millions of displaced Spaniards who fled the country in the years after the Spanish Civil War. In 1960 he appeared in the film of the same name.
He was romantically and professionally partnered with singer and actress Dolores Abril from 1954 until his death in 2004. The couple had two children, and Juana Dolores Valderrama, who both became singers.
Filmography Year Title Role Notes1956 El rey de la carretera Rafael 1960 El emigrante Quino 1966 Gitana Manuel 1966 De barro y oro Juan 1967 La niña del patio Juanito Valderrama 1968 El padre Coplillas Don Fernando, el 'Padre Coplillas' (final film role)
References
External links Telegraph obituary Juanito Valderrama's biography and discography