¡Azúcar! Celia Forever! 🇨🇺🎤

Описание: Úrsula Hilaria Celia Caridad Cruz Alfonso, born October 21, 1925, in Havana, Cuba, became the most iconic voice in Latin music history.
Growing up in the diverse barrio of Santos Suárez, she was encouraged by her mother to sing, winning local contests and eventually joining the legendary Sonora Matancera in 1950—launching her international career with infectious Afro-Cuban rhythms.

After the Cuban Revolution, she left for Mexico and then the U.S. in 1960, never returning under the Castro regime, and became a symbol of Cuban exile pride.

Her explosive partnership with Tito Puente and later the Fania All-Stars in the 1970s New York salsa boom produced timeless hits like "Quimbara," "La Vida Es Un Carnaval," "La Negra Tiene Tumbao," and her signature "¡Azúcar!" shout—a sweet tribute to her roots and joyful defiance.

With over 70 albums, 23 gold records, multiple Grammys (including Latin Lifetime Achievement), and collaborations from Johnny Pacheco to David Byrne, Celia broke barriers as a Black Latina woman in a male-dominated industry.

Her powerful contralto voice, vibrant stage presence, extravagant wigs, and dazzling costumes made every performance a celebration of life.
She passed away on July 16, 2003, but her music continues to inspire generations worldwide.

Celia Cruz remains the eternal Queen of Salsa—her energy, resilience, and joy forever shouting "¡Azúcar!"

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