Cruz, Celia (1924–2003)

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Cruz, Celia (1924–2003)

Cuban singer. Born Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso, Oct 21, 1924, in Havana, Cuba; died of a brain tumor, July 16, 2003, at home in Fort Lee, New Jersey; studied at Havana Conservatory of Music; m. Pedro Knight (trumpeter, as well as her director and manager), July 14, 1962.

Known as the "Queen of Salsa," launched singing career on local radio stations (1940s); was lead singer with La Sonora Matancera, a popular orchestra in Cuba (1950–65); toured, headlined at The Tropicana, and had many hit recordings, including "Bemba Colora," "del Cocoye," "Yerbero," "Moderno," and "Burundanga" (which went gold, 1957); defected to US (1959); joined Tito Puente's band (1966). Won a Grammy for album Celia and Johnny, recorded with Johnny Pacheco's orchestra (1974).

See also Women in World History.

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