Celia Cruz

Born Oct. 21, 1925 in Cuba

Died 2003

One of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century, her birth name was Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso.

Singer of guarachas, she earned the nickname “La Guarachera de Cuba.”

Also known as the “Queen of Salsa,” she popularized the genre of music in the US over a 60 year career.

By celebrating her Cuban culture, she heroically helped Afro-Latino Americans embrace their heritage.

Was the lead singer of Cuban orchestra La Sonora Matancera.

Through the power of her voice, she battled prejudice and spoke out against Cuba’s Communism.