The singer of Afro-Peruvian descent has been a key figure in the revival of Afro-Peruvian music within Peru, which, like the culture that produced it, had previously been little recognised, but which is now regarded as an important part of Peruvian culture. Baca has contributed much to its international popularity, which began in 1995 with the release of the compilation CD The Soul of Black Peru. The album, which features the Baca song "Maria Lando", was released by the Luaka Bop record label, which belongs to ex-Talking Heads frontman David Byrne.
Baca's music is a mixture of traditional and contemporary. Her backing band features indigenous Peruvian instruments such as the cajón, guapeo, and quijada, as well as acoustic guitar and double bass. Although many of her songs are based on traditional forms such as the landó or vals, she also incorporates elements of Cuban and Brazilian music.
Her songs are poetic with lyrics composed by some of Latin America's premier poets, with whom she collaborates and her voice is delicate yet soulful.