Rosita performing for Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward
Life Member. Latin & Brazilian Percussion/Vocals
12/9/1924 – 4/3/2019
Rosita Duchesne Mallah was born December 9,1924 in Cayey, Puerto Rico. She joined the Los Angeles musicians union, AFM Local 47, in 1961 and remained a member until her passing. She was a staunch supporter of the Musicians Union, and her late husband was Charles Mallah (guitar, bandleader), who had served on the Local 47 Executive Board for many years.
Among her main credits, Rosita was a very successful performer in NYC, where she was also a member of the musicians union Local 802. She performed at such venues as the Plaza Hotel, Vanderbuilt Hotel, Catskills, etc. She also performed at the United Nations often because she sang in many languages.
In California she worked under contract to Universal Studio Tours and Magic Mountain. She performed for four U.S. Presidents including JFK (Macy’s Day Parade float), Nixon, Reagan, and Ford (“Western White House”). She performed numerous voyages on Princess and Rotterdam Cruises, and also many Hollywood parties.
Rosita died April 3, 2019, in Valley Village, California. She is survived by children Linda (vocalist & songwriter) and Robert (morning radio personality & musician); her son Arnie pre-deceased her.
Rosita with President Ford
I knew you as a little girl you were friends with my grand mother. I’m sorry I was never able to find you again, had a dream about you and found an article. You were one of the best I ever had the privilege of meeting. Your family is amazing, your daughter and your granddaughter. Until we see eachother again.
I am looking Up the Duchesne Family because my brother in law asked me to search his family up. His Uncle Charlie played the congas and was great. I do not mind searching the Duchesne Family, they are my daughters family. I wish I had the picture of Uncle Charlie and Ronald Regan back in the days. My daughter Amanda Duchesne did a school report many years ago. My daughter loves acting but knew this is a difficult field and is a Geologist(Dartmouth College).
This is a grim reminder to not put off that call to say I love you or I miss you! I regret it and was so sorry to learn of Rosita’s death. She was a great friend and has had so many interesting life stories, never a dull moment and her entertaining was an 100% joy!
With plans to call her, was surprised her number no longer active. On checking, I was so sorry to learn of her passing away. She will be missed a lot!!