Jrzyguy-
Santo Domingo Blues is a documentary that I hope to see one day. Judging from the link it looks like the subject matter was well researched, thorough and complete which IMO makes for an honest treatment of the history of a genre many do not know about. A genre that is traditionally associated with a lower class social group, although it has changed somewhat today, the stigma still prevails and as a result bachata enjoys more popularity on an international scale than in its country of origin.
I have never heard of the artist you are curious about but according to the link her career ended due to blindness and judging from her photo Aridia Ventura was part of the older generation of bachata singers, which means the recording of her music was during a period when bachata was not socially accepted. The odds of you finding her music IMO are close to nil unless it is on a rare find compilation CD. Keeping in mind the artists in the documentary all represent the 'struggle' of bachata music in a social paradigm if it can be defined as such.
Bachata today is more diverse; the lyrics have changed which has allowed for the diffusion of the genre from rural to urban to international parameters and with this shift the presence of female singers has been noted. However, I still believe that bachateras have a long way to go in terms of social acceptance and having the right kind of promotion that would make them successful in a genre that is still gaining social acceptance. Right now bachateras are strong back up vocalists. Prime examples are Casilda Rodriguez with Raulin, Suzy Espinal with Antony Santos etc. Monchy & Alexandra are an exception and an example of a successful and socially accepted bachata duo. I believe much has to do with the type of bachata they sing and the lyrics.
If you are curious about bachateras the modern day ones are the ones to follow and analyze. The two I mentioned Valeria and Vanessa Gil are wonderful and I believe they have the right formula for success along with the right type of promotion. La Vickiana who sings duets with Luis Segura is another female artist of the genre who has had her foot in the door for a long time.
-LDG.
