Mellanie Olivares, Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Grand Champion Vocalist

La Joya, Texas native Mellanie Olivares was selected as the Grand Champion Vocalist during the 27th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza in 2021. Her award-winning song - Yo Naci Pa Cantar - is a song she loves because it expresses how she feels towards mariachi music and her Latina heritage. She especially loves the part that sings - Ay yo naci pa cantar, le canto a mi tierra, mi raza querida, digan lo que digan soy Mexicana de corazon, digan lo que digan soy Mexicana do corazon, y mi mariachi es lo MEJOR.
Mellanie is appreciative of the people who influenced her love for mariachi including her directors - Mr. Cantu, Mrs. Aldape, Mr. Escobedo, and Ms. Garza - along with her vocal coach - Mrs. Vanessa Alonzo.
Mellanie is a student at La Joya High School and the recipient of a $5,000 scholarship from MVE sponsors - Cano Health, H-E-B, KHS Music and Whataburger.
The Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza is a production of San Antonio based MPR (Muñoz Public Relations).
Filmed by ‪@SolarshotMusic‬