After an incredible journey across the Caribbean, we have now arrived at our final destination, Spanish-speaking Caribbean, where the music is as diverse as the people who create it. The musical traditions of this vibrant region encompass a wide range of styles, from the spirited rhythms of salsa to the soulful beats of Reggaetón. The Spanish-speaking Caribbean is home to many musical influences, reflecting the history and cultural diversity of the region. From the Afro-Caribbean rhythms of Puerto Rico to the melodies of the Dominican Republic, each island has its own unique musical identity. What better way to explore such a diverse musical heritage than through Celia Cruz?
Celia Cruz, also known as the "Queen of Salsa," was a renowned Cuban singer and one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century. She was born in Havana, Cuba, and later became an international icon known for her powerful voice and vibrant stage presence. Cruz's career spanned over 50 years, during which she released numerous albums and won multiple awards. She is celebrated for her vibrant personality, popularizing salsa music worldwide. Sadly, Celia passed away on July 16th, 2003. However, she remains a beloved figure in the Latin music community.
Celia became famous after appearing on an amateur radio program called "The Tea Hour" in the late 1940s. As her popularity grew, she attracted the attention of influential producers and musicians. She was recruited as the lead singer for Las Mulatas Del Fuego (The Mulattos of Fire), a dance ensemble that toured across Latin America. The group comprised individuals of mixed race and Black people with Spanish ancestry. While Las Mulatas Del Fuego members weren't singers or composers, their dancing was a form of art in itself. The first song on this playlist, "Sandungueate," pays homage to the beginning of Celia's career, which she performed alongside the dancers. The group was founded by choreographer Roderico Neyra, and their dance style was typically influenced by mambo and rumba.
Celia Cruz and Las Mulatas Del Fuego "Sandungueate"
In addition to Las Mulatas Del Fuego, Celia Cruz was part of other groups, but her collaboration with La Sonora Matancera was particularly iconic. La Sonora Matancera was a Cuban musical band that played a significant role in developing Cuban music. Celia Cruz joined the group in the 1950s and achieved great success together. Their collaboration led to the popularization of Afro-Cuban music and significantly influenced the salsa genre. They incorporated traditional instruments from timbales to bongos. 1960, following the Cuban Revolution, Celia Cruz and La Sonora Matancera spoke out against Fidel Castro's communist regime, left Cuba, and moved to the United States. He exiled them as a result. Celia Cruz died without being able to return home; they didn't even allow her to reenter the country to attend her mother's funeral. Could you imagine being exiled from your home never to return? The next song on the playlist is "Bonco," one of the group's most popular songs.
Even though it's sad that she was exiled from her home, Celia Cruz found love and support in her husband, Pedro Knight. Pedro was a trumpeter and former member of La Sonora Matancera. They were married for over 40 years until Celia passed away. Pedro Knight was known for being a dedicated and loving husband, standing by Celia throughout her career. I would have liked to have incorporated his solo performance, but it was hard to find. However, the next song on the playlist is "Desvelo de amor" (Revelation of Love), a beautiful tribute to their long-lasting love. In the performance, the couple sits side by side, singing to each other with deep affection.
Celia Cruz also worked with another group called The Fania All-Stars. This musical group was formed in 1968 by musicians signed to the Fania record label. They were known for their significant contributions to salsa music and for spreading Latin music globally. Celia was often associated with the Fania All-Stars. She collaborated with them on multiple occasions, lending her powerful vocals to their performances and recordings. Her partnership with the Fania All-Stars boosted the group's reputation. The next track is called "Quimbara," which she performed with the group in Africa in 1974. The song is about having a good time, relaxing, and enjoying yourself, which is what salsa is about.
Celia Cruz not only collaborated with groups but also with solo artists such as Tito Puente, a legendary Latin musician known as the "King of Latin Jazz." He was a highly influential Latin music figure, particularly salsa and mambo. Puente was a talented percussionist, composer, and arranger, and his energetic and innovative style helped popularize Latin music worldwide. Puente and Cruz's musical chemistry was undeniable, and they became known for their electrifying performances and dynamic musical arrangements. Here is their performance of the song "Bemba Colora."
Even after passing, Celia Cruz's influence on Latin music remained strong. Twelve years later, American pianist Sergio George, renowned for collaborating with top salsa artists, organized a musical homage to Celia Cruz at the Latin American Music Awards 2015. The tribute featured a lineup of artists, including Ayme Nuviola, Yuri, La India, Maluma, and Shaila Dúrcal, who celebrated the Queen of Salsa and her remarkable impact on Latin music and culture. They performed a mashup of her hit songs. The tribute served as a poignant reminder of Celia Cruz's legacy and influence on the next generations of musicians.
*This is a bonus track titled "Songo's Song," performed by Celia Cruz on Sesame Street. I wanted to include it because when any artist is featured on Sesame Street, it shows their influence on pop culture, whether it's a children's TV program or not. It's incredible how her music could resonate with both kids and grown-ups.
Sesame Street: Celia Cruz Sings Songo's Song
References
ALLMUSIC. (2012). Fania All-Stars Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & ... AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/fania-all-stars-mn0000795130#:~:text=The%20flagship%20act%20for%20Fania
Staff, B. (2015, September 28). Celia Cruz to be Honored at Latin American Music Awards With Tribute by Maluma, India & More. Billboard. https://www.billboard.com/music/latin/celia-cruz-tribute-latin-american-music-awards-maluma-india-sergio-george-6708251/
Torres, R. M. (2015, August 31). La huella inquietante de Las Mulatas de Fuego. Desmemoriados. https://www.desmemoriados.com/la-huella-inquietante-de-las-mulatas-de/
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