The singer was tired and had a cramp after performing at the Calypsoul Festival, her friend and makeup artist Fernando Tofaneli said.
Singer Joelma, 52, performed in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, October 3. After the three-hour show at Qualistage in Barra da Tijuca, her friend and makeup artist Fernando Tofaneli carried her. He shared a video of himself taking the singer to the hotel and later said in the comments that she was tired and had a cramp.
Tofanelli dedicated a lengthy tribute to Joelma in the video caption. He wrote that her significance to people goes far beyond music, choreography and the stage, and described her as an inspiration. He said she carries the dreams, stories and emotions of fans who find strength in her voice.
Tofanelli also said Joelma still had much to live, give and change. Fans posted supportive messages for both of them. One called Tofanelli an angel God had sent into Joelma’s life. Another said she loved the singer for her strength and urged her to rest. A fan who had followed Joelma for 26 years called the performance the best show of her life.
Joelma performed at the Calypsoul Festival, which she leads. The accompanying image is an archival photo from a different concert and does not depict the Rio appearance.