The Life and Legacy of Celia Cruz
From Havana to the world stage, explore the music, passion, and spirit of the Queen of Salsa
Celia Cruz Photoshoot 3 (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Celia Cruz (1925 – 2003) was a Cuban-American singer and one of the most iconic figures in the history of Latin music. She was born in Havana, Cuba, and gained fame for her powerful and distinctive voice, as well as her vibrant stage presence and elaborate costumes.
Celia Cruz Humble Beginning in Cuba (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
The Beginning
Celia Cruz began her singing career in Cuba with the popular band La Sonora Matancera before immigrating to the United States.
Celia Cruz Performing with La Sonora Mantancera 1960
Celia Cruz Sings Tu Voz (1960)
Celia Cruz Photoshoot 5 (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Leaving Cuba
Celia Cruz arrived in the United States in 1960. She and her husband, Pedro Knight, were on tour with the Sonora Matancera, a renowned Cuban orchestra, when they decided not to return to Cuba due to the political unrest and Fidel Castro's rise to power.
Celia Cruz and Tito Puente (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Celia Cruz Arrives to New York
Celia Cruz arrived in New York and started working with Tito Puente. Cruz and Puente collaborated numerous times, creating some of the most memorable moments in Latin music history. The chemistry on stage was electric, and their collaborations produced global hits.
Celia Cruz and Tito Puente on stage
Song: Quimbara
Celia Cruz and Tito Puente Share a laugh on stage. (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Celia Cruz and Tito Puente
Tito Puente and Celia Cruz had a dynamic and enduring partnership; their collaboration was characterized by mutual respect, deep musical chemistry, and a shared passion for bringing the vibrant rhythms of Afro-Cuban and Latin music to audiences worldwide.
Celia Cruz and Tito Puente Interview
This interview occurred on the Angel Casas Show on October 7, 1984. This is a rare interview where we see their relationship off-stage. This is a fantastic interview.
Celia Cruz with Fania All-Stars/Johnny Pacheco Musical Director (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco
Celia Cruz also joined forces with Johnny Pacheco and became a member of the legendary Fania All-Stars, which was comprised of some of the best salsa artists and musicians at that time. Willie Colon, Ismael Miranda, Ruben Blades, Ray Barretto and Hector Lavoe just to name a few.
Celia Cruz and Fania All-Stars
Song: Bemba Colora
Celia Cruz began working with the Fania All-Stars in the early 1970s.Her collaboration with the ensemble resulted in some of the most iconic performances and recordings in the history of Latin music. These collaborations combined the powerful voice and stage presence of Celia with the exceptional musical talents of the Fania All-Stars members, which included luminaries like Johnny Pacheco, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Rubén Blades and here you see her performing alongside Pete El Conde Rodriguez.
Celia Cruz and Oscar De Leon (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Collaborations
Two Icons, one stage; Celia Cruz and Oscar D'Leon performing. Celia's voice along with her charisma and stage presence made her a talent to watch.
Celia Cruz Collection 12 (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Celia Cruz Honored
Celia Cruz's ability to collaborate with a diverse range of artists showcased her versatility as a singer and her willingness to push the boundaries of Latin music.
Photo L to R: Victor Manuelle, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Celia Cruz, Milly Quezada, Jose Alberto, Patti LaBelle
Celia Cruz Honored AZUCAR!
On this day Celia Cruz was honored by some of the biggest artists in the music industry . Telemundo televised this special occasion and has been seen by millions around the world.
Celia Cruz and La India (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
The Queen and The Princess Of Salsa
La India, a highly influential salsa artist, considered Celia Cruz as a mentor and a significant influence on her career. They performed together on several occasions and recorded songs such as "Llegó La India" and "Bemba Colorá."
Celia Cruz Flyer from The Legendary Night Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City. November 24, 1996
Her music was loved not only by Latin audiences but also by people from all over the world. An artist like Celia Cruz comes into this world once in a lifetime. Celia Cruz is considered the Queen of Latin Music, she had a humble spirit and a loving heart. She inspired the world.
Celia Cruz's impact extended beyond her music; she was known for her joyful and exuberant personality, as well as her signature catchphrase "¡Azúcar!" which became a part of her identity.
How the phrase "Azucar" started
Celia Cruz explains how the phrase "Azucar" became the catchphrase that has been heard around the world.
Philanthropy
Throughout her career, Celia Cruz's philanthropic work extended to organizations that supported the arts, culture, and social justice. She recognized the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting diversity, and the importance of education.
Celia Cruz on Sesame Street
When not performing on Stage, The Queen of Salsa takes out time to inspire kids and adults of all ages.
Celia Cruz Photoshoot 2 (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
Legacy
Celia Cruz's legacy transcends generations, leaving an everlasting impact on music, inspiring self-awareness, and a deep love for culture. She is, and forever will be, the queen, known simply as Celia Cruz. Thank you Celia Cruz for all that you have done for the culture.
Celia Cruz Photoshoot 7 (9/15/23) by Celia Cruz EstateInternational Salsa Museum
www.CeliaCruz.com
For More Information on Celia Cruz, Please Visit Website.
International Salsa Museum would like to say Thank You to the Celia Cruz Estate for their collaboration and support. We will forever honor Celia Cruz and keep her legacy alive. AZUCAR!!!!!
Photography Courtesy of Celia Cruz Estate
www.CeliaCruz.com
