How did a working-class girl from Cuba become a symbol of artistic
freedom for Cuban Americans and the "Queen of Salsa"? Find out in this
addition to the Who HQ library!
Although her family and friends know her as Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la
Caridad Cruz Alfonso, the world refers to her simply as Celia Cruz.
Starting her career in 1950, Celia grew increasingly popular as the new
lead singer of the Cuban band Sonora Matancera. Her exceptional vocal
range and flashy costumes made fans fall in love with her.
Celia's talent took her all around the world, including the United
States. After Fidel Castro came to power in Cuba, she wasn't allowed to
return to her native country. She and other Cubans who were exiled used
their music to express their love for their homeland.
Celia rose to the top of the charts in a genre that was dominated by
men. She become an award-winning singer and the most popular Latin
artist of the twentieth century. Azucar! indeed!