Marisela

Biography

Marisela Esqueda (born April 24, 1966), known professionally as Marisela, is an American singer and songwriter. She is also referred to as "La Dama de Hierro" ('The Iron Lady'). Her debut album, Sin Él, entered at No. 16 on the first Billboard Latin Albums Chart.

Early life

Marisela was born in Los Angeles, California, to Mexican immigrant parents. She was raised in a bilingual household and began singing at a young age. She has cited Rocío Dúrcal and Juan Gabriel among her musical influences.

1980s

Marisela began her career in 1984. Her debut album, Sin Él (1984), was produced by Marco Antonio Solís and included the title track as its lead single. That same year, she recorded a duet, "La Pareja Ideal", with Solís.

1990s

In 1990, she released the album Marisela, which included the single "Ya No." The song reached No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Latin Songs chart. That same year, "Ya No" was featured in the Boaz Davidson film Salsa (1988). Marisela appeared in the film, performing alongside Celia Cruz and Tito Puente, which exposed her to new audiences within Latin pop.

2000s–present

Marisela continued recording and touring through the 2000s and 2010s in Mexico, the United States, and Latin America. She released several compilations and live albums. In 2025, she undertook the EMPODERADA tour and released new music, including the single "Sola." In 2026, she was working on a duet album in collaboration with Universal Music. She has released 14 albums.

Personal life

Marisela has a daughter, Marilyn Odessa, who is also a musical performer. The two have appeared together at concerts, including performances in Portland and Tijuana in 2025.[1]

Compilation albums

Lo básico de Marisela (2010)
Las Número 1 (CD+DVD)
Tesoros de colección (2007)
Ellas cantan así (2003)
Serie 2000 (2000)
Serie Platino (1996)
20 éxitos inmortales
30 grandes éxitos
Personalidad
La mejor intérprete de Marco Antonio Solís
15 Éxitos Vol. 1
15 Éxitos Vol. 2