Celia Cruz
Celia Cruz: The Queen of Salsa
Celia Cruz was a Cuban-American singer and one of the most influential Latin artists of the 20th century. She was known as the "Queen of Salsa" and was a pioneer in the genre. Cruz won numerous awards, including 23 Grammy Awards, and she was inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame in 2003.
Early Life
Celia Cruz was born Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso on October 21, 1925, in Havana, Cuba. She was the daughter of Simón Cruz, a railroad worker, and Catalina Alfonso, a homemaker. Cruz had two sisters and two brothers. She started singing at a young age and performed in local talent shows.
Career
Cruz's professional singing career began in 1948 when she joined the Orquesta Sonora Matancera, one of the most popular Cuban dance bands of the time. With the Sonora Matancera, Cruz recorded several hit songs, including "Burundanga" and "La Vida es un Carnaval."
In 1960, Cruz left Cuba with her husband, Pedro Knight, after the Cuban Revolution. She settled in New York City and continued her singing career. Cruz recorded several albums in the United States, including "Celia y Tito" (1974) with Tito Puente and "Homenaje a la Música Cubana" (1987).
Cruz toured extensively throughout the world and performed in sold-out concerts. She was a popular guest on television shows andに出演した。She also appeared in several films, including "Salón México" (1949) and "The Perez Family" (1995).
Personal Life
Cruz was married to Pedro Knight from 1962 until his death in 2007. The couple did not have any children. Cruz was a devout Catholic and was known for her charitable work. She was a supporter of several organizations that helped the homeless and the poor.
Death
Cruz died of cancer on July 16, 2003, at the age of 77. Her death was mourned by millions of fans around the world. Cruz was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, New York City.
Legacy
Celia Cruz was one of the most successful and influential Latin artists of all time. She helped to popularize salsa music around the world and was a role model for many other Latin singers. Cruz's music continues to be enjoyed by millions of fans around the world.
Awards and Honors
- 23 Grammy Awards
- Inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame (2003)
- Inducted into the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Hall of Fame (2001)
- Received the National Medal of Arts from President Bill Clinton (1994)
- Received the Kennedy Center Honors (1994)
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1990)
