The death has been announced of Baccara singer María Mendiola, best known for the Spanish duo's disco anthem Yes Sir, I Can Boogie. She was 69.
It is reported that Mendiola passed away in Madrid on Saturday surrounded by her family.
In a statement, her family said: "She will always be remembered for her love, dedication and respect for the world of music and interpretation. We will always remember her smile."
Writing on Instagram, Mendiola's bandmate Cristina Sevilla said: "My dear María, a wonderful artist but above all my friend left us today."
Mendiola formed Baccara with fellow singer Mayte Mateos in 1977 and they went on to enjoy international chart success with Yes Sir, I Can Boogie, follow-up Sorry I'm a Lady and their self-titled debut album. They also represented Luxembourg in the 1978 Eurovision Song Contest with Parlez-Vous Français?.
In the 1980s, Mendiola and Mateos split as a duo, touring and recording separately as versions of Baccara. Mendiola worked with fellow singer Marisa Pérez until 2008 when Perez left her Baccara after being diagnosed with arthritis. She was replaced by Cristina Sevilla.
In recent years, Yes Sir, I Can Boogie has connected with a new generation of fans through cover versions, its use in advertisements and its unlikely transformation into an anthem for football supporters; in particular, Bohemians and Scotland's 'Tartan Army'.
