Celia Cruz
Written by Yuliana Camayo and Keyli Motiño
Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso, known as Celia Cruz was a famous Afro-Cuban singer born in Havana in 1925. Celia grew up to be one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th Century. Throughout her career in the music industry, she has won numerous awards including several Grammys and a star on the Hollywood Walk of fame. Some of her greatest songs include “La Negra Tiene Tumbao,” “La Vida es un Carnaval,” and “Quimbara.” In addition to this, Calia’s famous word azucar (which means sugar in Spanish) often displayed in her songs, paid homage to her African ancestors, who were enslaved in Cuba in order to harvest sugar cane. Her pride to be of African descent is also displayed in her hit song “La Negra Tiene Tumbao.” Celia Cruz revolutionized the Latin music industry not only with her talent and presence but also by becoming one of the most important figures of salsa and tropical music, two genres historically dominated by men. Even after her death in 2003, people continue to honor her life and her presence is still felt in the Latin American community.
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