Romica Puceanu

Romica Puceanu (1926–1996) was a legendary Romanian singer known as the "Queen of Romani Music" for her soulful interpretations of **lautărească** – the passionate, emotionally charged music tradition of Romani musicians. With her unmistakable smoky voice and raw emotional delivery, she became an icon of Romani culture and a national treasure in Romania. Born in Bucharest to a Romani family of musicians, Puceanu started performing as a teenager alongside legendary **lăutari** (traditional musicians) like accordionist Toni Iordache. Her recordings, like *Șaraiman* and *Cine Nu Știe Ce-i Doru*, blended melancholic love songs with vibrant dance tunes, showcasing the full spectrum of Romani musical storytelling. Though she faced challenges as a Romani woman in the music industry, her voice – equal parts heartbreak and resilience – continues to define Romani music for generations.