ARTIST BIO
Celia Cruz was a Cuban-American singer and one of the most influential figures in Latin music. Born in Havana, Cuba in 1925, Cruz began her career singing in local clubs and radio stations. She soon gained recognition for her powerful voice and unique style, which blended traditional Cuban music with elements of jazz, salsa, and other Latin genres. Cruz rose to international fame in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the most popular Latin singers of all time. She recorded 37 albums and won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and three Latin Grammy Awards. Widely considered 'The Queen of Salsa', Cruz was also known for her vibrant stage presence and her signature phrase, “Azúcar!” (“Sugar!”). She passed away in 2003, but her legacy lives on in her music, which continues to inspire generations of Latin music fans.