Celia Cruz
Celia Cruz, born Úrsula Hilaria Celia Caridad Cruz Alfonso on October 21, 1925, in Havana, Cuba, was a legendary Cuban American singer known as the "Queen of Salsa Music." She grew up in the Santos Suárez neighborhood of Havana in a large family and initially pursued a career in teaching before turning to music. Cruz's musical journey began after winning a talent show, which led her to abandon her studies and pursue singing full-time.
In 1950, she gained prominence as the lead singer of the Cuban orchestra La Sonora Matancera, becoming the ensemble’s first Black front person. Cruz's time with the group marked the beginning of her rise to fame, and she became known for her vibrant performances and powerful voice. After the Cuban Revolution in 1959, Cruz left Cuba for Mexico and eventually settled in the United States, where she became a U.S. citizen in 1961.
Cruz struggled initially to find a wide audience in the U.S., but her collaboration with Tito Puente in the mid-1960s helped her gain recognition. Her association with the salsa genre in the 1970s, particularly through her work with Fania Records and collaborations with artists like Johnny Pacheco and Willie Colón, solidified her status as a central figure in Latin music. Her dynamic single "Quimbara" became one of her signature songs.
Throughout her career, Cruz recorded over 75 albums, including 23 gold records. She won multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards and was celebrated for her flamboyant costumes and charismatic stage presence. Her catchphrase "¡Azúcar!" became synonymous with her vibrant personality and music.
Cruz passed away on July 16, 2003, in Fort Lee, New Jersey, at the age of 77. Her legacy endures as one of the most beloved and influential Latin musicians of the 20th century, with her contributions to salsa music continuing to inspire generations.
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