On Radio María’s “Dale La Vuelta” program, dedicated to disability, we had the honor of interviewing Isidro Arenas, the iconic voice of the band Tennessee. This group pioneered doo-wop to Spanish, a genre that would shape an entire generation with its nostalgic rhythm and romantic lyrics.

But beyond his musical legacy, Isidro shared his inspiring life story with us. He took us back to his childhood when he contracted polio at just three months old while vacationing with his family in a town in Badajoz. The local doctor was unaware of the disease, and he was only diagnosed upon arriving in Madrid. From that moment on, his home for eight years was the Niño Jesús Hospital, where he shared a ward with about twenty other children affected by the same disease. There, he fought the disease and completed primary school, and began to develop the determination that characterizes him.

Upon completing this stage, he received a scholarship and had to choose between Madrid or Seville to continue his education. With his indomitable spirit, he decided to move south. Upon arriving, he was surprised to see so many children with the same condition: “We were legion, we were like the Romans, invincible,” he recalled with humor and naturalness.

Talent Over Disability

The most admirable thing about Isidro Arenas is that his disability never took center stage in his life. It was his voice, his charisma, and his unparalleled talent that led him to success. However, it wasn’t all easy. He shared with us how, in his early days on television, they asked him not to appear on stage with crutches: “I should appear sitting down,” as if his disability needed to be hidden. Thank God, perceptions have changed today, and her story is an example of how music and art can break down any barrier.

During the interview, she gave us a message full of hope for all those facing a difficult diagnosis:

“You can do anything in life. Not in the same way, but you can. You have to know yourself, know your capabilities, and go for it.”

A Musical Legacy That Lives On

Beyond their example of self-improvement, Isidro and Tennessee shaped entire generations with their music. Personally, I am deeply grateful for the girl I was and the mother of nine girls I am today. Her songs made us dream of true and exclusive love, something so different from today’s reggaeton lyrics, which sound more like a “carnage.”

Tennessee taught us that yes, they can love you, only you, and always you.

The interview with Isidro Arenas was a true gift. Her kindness, strength, and joy were reflected in every word, and her story reminds us that we can dream and fall short.