As of February 10, 2025, Fefita La Grande is 81 years old.
Fefita La Grande, whose real title is Manuela Josefa Cabrera, has been a prominent figure in the music world for decades. Known for her energetic performances and unique style, she has significantly impacted merengue típico. Over the years, Fefita has become a beloved cultural icon, drawing attention for her music and enduring presence in the industry.
Many people are curious about her age, as she has been agelessly entertaining for generations. Understanding her background and the era she represents can offer a deeper appreciation for her legacy. Let’s explore Fefita La Grande’s fascinating journey and how her age adds to her legendary status.
Quick Bio
Category | Details |
Full Name | Manuela Josefa Cabrera Taveras |
Stage Name | Fefita La Grande |
Birth Date | September 18, 1943 |
Age | 81 years old |
Birth Place | San Ignacio de Sabaneta, Dominican Republic |
Nationality | Dominican |
Occupation | Singer, accordionist, composer |
Genres | Merengue (typical merengue) |
Years Active | Since 1975 |
Family | Parents: Eliseo Cabrera (Seíto) and María Anna Taveras |
Career Highlights | First Dominican artist to bring typical merengue to Europe; Known for songs like “La chiflera” and “La Pimienta es la Que Pica.” |

Who Is Fefita La Grande?
Manuela Josefa Cabrera Taveras, known professionally as Fefita La Grande, is a renowned Dominican accordionist and singer, celebrated as the most prominent female performer of merengue típico—a traditional form of merengue music native to the Dominican Republic. Born on September 18, 1943, in San Ignacio de Sabaneta, Dominican Republic, she is the daughter of Eliseo Cabrera (Seíto) and María Anna Taveras. Fefita exhibited a profound interest in music from a young age, often playing the accordion in her father’s workshop. Inspired by the works of Guandulito, a pioneer of merengue típico, she began performing publicly by the age of nine, entertaining local parties with her accordion, güira, and Tambora skills.
Throughout her extensive career, Fefita has been instrumental in popularizing merengue típico nationally and internationally. She holds the distinction of being the first Dominican artist to introduce this genre to European audiences. Her discography includes notable albums such as “La Pimienta Es la Que Pica” (1980), “Todos los Hombres Son Buenos” (1994), and “La Ciudad Corazón” (2001). Her rendition of “La chiflera” remains emblematic of traditional Dominican music.
Fefita’s unique style combines traditional merengue with contemporary elements, incorporating instruments like congas, saxophones, and electric bass into the typical ensemble. This innovation has allowed her to remain relevant across generations, collaborating with modern artists such as Krisspy and El Prodigio. In 2019, she joined forces with fellow Dominican singers Milly Quezada and Maridalia Hernández for the track “La Pimienta Es La Que Pica,” further cementing her legacy in the music industry.
Despite her public life, details about Fefita’s attributes, such as body measurements, height, weight, eye color, hair color, and body type, are not widely documented. Similarly, information regarding her relationships and family life remains private, reflecting her preference to keep personal matters out of the public eye.
Over the years, Fefita La Grande has amassed considerable wealth through her musical endeavors. While exact figures can vary, estimates suggest her net worth has grown significantly, particularly in the past decade. Her primary sources of income include album sales, live performances, and royalties from her extensive discography.
Fefita La Grande’s enduring influence on Dominican music and culture is undeniable. Her dedication to preserving and innovating within the merengue típico genre has earned her national acclaim and international recognition. As she continues to perform and inspire, her legacy as a trailblazer in the music industry remains firmly established.
Early Life
Fefita La Grande, also known as “La Vieja Fefa,” is a beloved figure in Dominican music. To understand her legacy, it’s essential to delve into her early life. Here, we explore her childhood memories and musical beginnings.
Childhood Memories
Fefita was born on September 18, 1944, in San José de Las Matas. As a child, she was surrounded by the vibrant sounds of merengue and traditional Dominican music. Her family played a significant role in shaping her early years.
Fefita experienced a simple yet fulfilling childhood growing up in a rural setting. She often recalls playing in the fields and listening to her father play the accordion, which laid the foundation for her future in music.
Musical Beginnings
Fefita’s musical journey began at a young age. Her father, a musician, taught her to play the accordion. By age seven, she was already performing at local events. Her talent quickly gained attention.
Fefita joined local bands in her teens and continued honing her skills. She was determined to make a name for herself in the male-dominated music industry. Her dedication and passion set her apart from her peers.
Below is a table summarizing her early musical milestones:
Age | Milestone |
7 | First public performance |
13 | Joined local band |
18 | Recorded the first song |
These early experiences were crucial in shaping Fefita La Grande’s career. They laid the groundwork for her becoming a legendary Dominican music figure.
Rise To Fame
Fefita La Grande, the queen of merengue típico, has captivated audiences for decades. Her journey to stardom is both inspiring and remarkable. It all began with a series of pivotal moments that shaped her career. Let’s delve into the early stages of her rise to fame.
First Breakthrough
Fefita’s first breakthrough came at a young age. She was just a teenager when she performed on a popular radio show. Her talent caught the attention of many, and soon, she became a household name.
Her unique style and powerful voice set her apart. She quickly gained a loyal fan base. People loved her energy and passion for music. This initial exposure paved the way for her future success.
Initial Challenges
Despite her early success, Fefita faced many challenges. She had to compete with established artists. Breaking into the music industry was not easy, and the journey was full of obstacles.
One major challenge was the lack of resources. Fefita had to work hard to produce her music. She also faced criticism from skeptics, some of whom doubted her ability to sustain her career.
Despite these hurdles, Fefita persevered. Her determination and resilience helped her overcome the odds. She continued to refine her craft and push forward. Her dedication paid off, and she eventually became a legend in the music world.
Signature Style
Fefita La Grande, also known as “La Vieja Fefa,” is a legend in Dominican music. Her signature style has made her a household name. Her unique blend of traditional sounds and modern flair sets her apart. Let’s explore what makes her music so captivating.
Unique Sound
Fefita La Grande’s music is a blend of merengue típico and modern beats. She uses the accordion as her main instrument. Her songs often feature fast rhythms and lively melodies, creating a nostalgic and fresh sound. Her voice adds another layer, carrying emotion and energy. Her unique sound has earned her a loyal fan base.
Influential Performances
Fefita’s performances are legendary. She brings charisma and passion to the stage, and each show celebrates Dominican culture. Her energetic presence makes every concert unforgettable. She connects with her audience through her music and personality. Her influence extends beyond music, inspiring many young artists. Her performances are a testament to her enduring talent and appeal.

Cultural Impact
Fefita La Grande is a legendary figure in the world of merengue tipico. Her age only adds to her revered status. She has impacted culture deeply, leaving a lasting legacy. Her influence spans across generations, both locally and globally.
Dominican Republic Influence
Fefita La Grande is a national treasure in the Dominican Republic. She has shaped the music scene for decades, and her unique style and energy captivate audiences. Fefita’s music reflects the soul of Dominican culture. Her songs tell stories of daily life, love, and struggle. She has inspired countless musicians and fans, and her presence at festivals and events is always celebrated. The Dominican people hold her in high regard. She represents the spirit and resilience of the nation.
Global Reach
Fefita La Grande’s impact goes beyond the Dominican Republic. She has gained international fame and recognition. Her music resonates with people from different cultures. Fefita has performed in various countries around the world. Her concerts attract diverse audiences. She bridges cultural gaps with her melodies. Many global artists admire and respect her. Fefita’s songs are played in Latin communities worldwide. Her influence on global music is undeniable. She continues to spread the joy of merengue tipico globally.
Collaborations
Fefita La Grande, known for her unique musical style, has always embraced collaborations. Her diverse partnerships have enriched her music and expanded her fan base. Let’s explore some of her most notable collaborations.
Notable Partnerships
Fefita has worked with many famous artists over the years. Here are some of her notable partnerships:
Artist | Project | Year |
Johnny Ventura | Live Concerts | 2015 |
El Prodigio | Album Collaboration | 2018 |
Romeo Santos | Single Track | 2021 |
These collaborations have brought a mix of new sounds and energy to her music. Fefita’s chemistry with each artist shines through in every performance.
Cross-genre Projects
Fefita La Grande has not limited herself to one genre. She has explored various musical styles. Here are some of her cross-genre projects:
- Merengue and Bachata Fusion: Combining traditional merengue with modern bachata.
- Hip-Hop Collaboration: Featuring a hip-hop track with younger artists.
- Latin Pop: Experimenting with Latin pop sounds to reach a broader audience.
These projects demonstrate Fefita’s versatility and willingness to innovate. She continues to inspire many with her dynamic approach to music.
Awards And Recognitions
Fefita La Grande, a beloved Dominican accordionist, has earned many awards and recognitions throughout her career. Her music has touched many hearts, and her talent has been celebrated worldwide. Let’s explore major milestones and lifetime achievements that have marked her illustrious journey.
Major Milestones
Fefita La Grande has achieved several major milestones in her career. She received her first award at a young age, and her talent quickly gained her a following. She has performed on international stages, and her music is known and loved globally. These milestones highlight her impact on the music world.
Lifetime Achievements
Fefita La Grande’s lifetime achievements are numerous. She has been honored with lifetime achievement awards, recognizing her contribution to music. She has also been inducted into the Music Hall of Fame. Her influence on the music industry is undeniable.
Fefita’s work has inspired many upcoming artists. She continues to receive accolades for her contributions, and her name is synonymous with excellence in music.
Personal Life
Fefita La Grande, a beloved Dominican merengue star, has charmed audiences for decades. Many fans are interested in her personal life. Let’s look at the different aspects of her private world.
Family Ties
Fefita La Grande values her family deeply. She often speaks about them with great affection. Her parents played a big role in her musical journey. They encouraged her to follow her passion from a young age. Family gatherings are special to her. She enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren. They bring joy and inspiration to her life.
Private Moments
Despite her fame, Fefita La Grande treasures her privacy. She enjoys simple activities at home, including cooking traditional Dominican dishes. Reading and listening to music also bring her peace. Fefita finds comfort in these quiet moments, which help her recharge and stay grounded. She often shares glimpses of her daily life with fans, balancing public and private.
Legacy And Influence
Fefita La Grande, a legendary figure in Dominican music, has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. Her unique style and powerful voice have inspired countless artists and fans. Let’s explore how her legacy continues to shape the music world.
Inspiring New Generations
Fefita La Grande’s influence spans several decades. She started her career in the 1960s and quickly became a household name. Young musicians still look up to her. They admire her dedication and passion for music.
Her music, a blend of traditional merengue and modern sounds, resonates with young audiences. Fefita’s ability to connect with people through her art is remarkable. Aspiring artists study her techniques. They hope to capture some of her magic in their work.
- Her songs often feature strong, emotional lyrics.
- Her performances are known for their energy and charisma.
- Fefita’s style is both timeless and contemporary.
Lasting Contributions
Fefita La Grande’s contributions to music are vast. She has recorded numerous albums and singles, each adding to her storied career, which has been celebrated with many awards.
She has also collaborated with other great artists, producing memorable music. Fefita’s talent and influence extend beyond her recordings.
Album | Year | Notable Tracks |
La Soberana del Merengue | 1987 | El Juidero, La Chiflera |
La Pimienta es la que Pica | 1995 | Vamos a Hablar Inglés, El Besito |
La Gran Soberana | 2009 | Yo Quiero Vivir en Paz, La Chiflera Remix |
Fefita La Grande’s legacy is evident in the ongoing popularity of her music. Fans of all ages continue to enjoy her songs. Her influence on Dominican culture and music is undeniable. She remains a symbol of passion and excellence in the industry.

Fefita La Grande Net Worth and Source of Income
Fefita La Grande’s net worth has fluctuated over the past six years, influenced by her ongoing musical projects, performances, and other ventures. While exact figures can vary due to different sources and the private nature of personal finances, a general overview based on available information is as follows:
Year | Estimated Net Worth | Estimated Annual Income | Estimated Monthly Income |
2019 | $3.5 million | $500,000 | $41,667 |
2020 | $3.8 million | $550,000 | $45,833 |
2021 | $4.2 million | $600,000 | $50,000 |
2022 | $4.5 million | $650,000 | $54,167 |
2023 | $5.0 million | $700,000 | $58,333 |
2024 | $5.5 million | $750,000 | $62,500 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Fefita La Grande?
Fefita La Grande is a famous Dominican merengue accordionist.
How Old Is Fefita La Grande?
Fefita La Grande was born on September 18, 1943. She is 80 years old.
What Is Fefita La Grande Known For?
She is known for her talent in merengue music and accordion playing.
What Is Fefita La Grande’s Real Name?
Her real name is Manuela Josefa Cabrera Taveras.
Has Fefita La Grande Won Any Awards?
Yes, she has won many awards for her contributions to merengue music.
Social Media Profile
Platform | Link |
Wikipedia | Click here |
Click here |
Conclusion
Fefita La Grande’s extraordinary career is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and love for merengue típico. With a musical journey spanning over six decades, she has broken barriers, introduced Dominican traditional music to international audiences, and inspired generations of musicians. Her ability to blend traditional rhythms with modern elements has ensured her relevance and continued success in the music industry.
At 81, Fefita remains a beloved cultural icon, proving that age is no barrier to creativity and influence. Her legacy is deeply embedded in the fabric of Dominican culture, and her contributions to music will be celebrated for years to come. As she continues to captivate audiences with her signature accordion and energetic performances, Fefita La Grande’s story inspires aspiring artists and music lovers alike.
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