Gabi Luncă was a renowned Romanian-Romani lăutar musician and folk singer, often regarded as the "Queen of lăutari music." Born on October 16, 1938, in Vărbilău, Prahova County, Romania, she was known for her silvery, lightly strained singing voice. Her life was marked by early hardship, losing her mother at a young age, which influenced many of her songs, often focusing on themes of motherhood and longing. She was a favorite of Romania's communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu and his wife Elena. Luncă was married to accordionist Ion Onoriu and was celebrated for her professionalism and elegant stage presence, earning her the nickname "Țigancă de mătase" (Silken Gypsy Woman). She performed with notable musicians like Toni Iordache and was a prominent figure in the Bucharest Lautari scene.
In her later years, Gabi Luncă converted to Pentecostalism and began singing exclusively religious music, performing mainly at Pentecostal church services. Her legacy as one of the most valued performers of Romanian muzica lautareasca remains, alongside Romica Puceanu. Luncă passed away on April 2, 2021, at the age of 82 due to COVID-19.
The provided recent releases do not match the known discography or style of Gabi Luncă, suggesting they might not be associated with her.
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