María del Carmen Sánchez Levi, known professionally as Carmela Rey, was born on December 7, 1931, in Xalapa-Enríquez, Veracruz, Mexico. She was a singer and actress who began her career as a singer after studying at the Conservatorio Nacional de Música. Her initial breakthrough came through a radio series and performances at the Capri nightclub. Carmela Rey released several albums, including Carmela Rey (1958). She made her film debut in A sablazo limpio in 1958, followed by notable roles in films such as Viva la parranda (1960), Las hijas del Amapolo (1962), and Escuela para solteras (1965). She formed a successful duo with her partner, Rafael Vázquez. She was awarded the Premio de Oro by the Compañía Vinícola del Vergel in 1973 for her contributions to Mexican culture. She passed away on February 13, 2018, at the age of 86.
