No. 83: Celia Cruz
Episode Transcript
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What do you get when you combine the soul of Afro-Cuban rhythms with a voice that could move mountains?
You get the Queen of Salsa herself, Celia Cruz! But did you know that her journey to becoming an international icon started with a teacher telling her she should pursue anything but music? Welcome to the “100 Historic Black Women You Should Know By Election Day” series. I’m Shae, your host and a PhD candidate at Harvard, here to guide you through the incredible life of a woman who not only defied the odds but redefined them.
Celia Cruz was born in Havana, Cuba, in 1925, and despite early skepticism from her teachers, she knew from a young age that music was her calling. With a voice that could transcend borders, she began her career in the 1950s as the lead singer of Sonora Matancera, one of the most popular orchestras in Latin America. It wasn’t long before Celia became a household name, beloved for her powerful voice, vibrant stage presence, and signature cry of "¡Azúcar!"—a call to celebrate life’s sweetness, even in the face of adversity.
But Celia’s impact wasn’t confined to Latin music. After the Cuban Revolution, she moved to the United States, where she played a key role in popularizing salsa music worldwide. Her collaborations with the likes of Tito Puente and the Fania All-Stars helped cement salsa as a dominant force in the music industry. Celia Cruz recorded over 70 albums, won two Grammy Awards, and three Latin Grammy Awards, earning her a well-deserved place in music history. And in 2024, she became the first Afro-Latina to be featured on a U.S. quarter, a testament to her lasting influence and the cultural legacy she left behind.
Celia Cruz wasn’t just a singer; she was a symbol of resilience, culture, and joy. Despite being exiled from her homeland, she never lost her connection to her Afro-Cuban roots, and she became an emblem of pride for Afro-Latinas and Black women worldwide.
Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that the Smithsonian National Museum of American History has a pair of Celia’s iconic stage shoes on display? They’re covered in gold vinyl and truly capture her larger-than-life persona!
So, if you’ve been inspired by Celia Cruz’s incredible story, help keep her legacy alive by rating this podcast 5 stars. When you do, you’re not just supporting the series; you’re making sure more people get to hear the stories of these amazing women. Follow me on social media, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and let’s continue to celebrate the remarkable contributions of historic Black women.
