Celia Cruz, born in Havana in 1925, was a Cuban singer celebrated as one of the most influential Latin artists of the 20th century. Rising to fame in the 1950s with her energetic guaracha performances, she became known as "La Guarachera de Cuba." After leaving Cuba in 1960, Cruz became an iconic figure in the Cuban exile community and gained international fame as the "Queen of Salsa." Her dynamic voice and charismatic stage presence led her to success with the legendary Sonora Matancera, collaborations with Tito Puente, and as a key artist in the Fania All-Stars. With a career spanning over five decades, Celia Cruz released 37 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records, and earned multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards. Her catchphrase "Azúcar" and timeless hits like "Quimbara," "La vida es un carnaval," and "La negra tiene tumbao" have left a lasting mark on Latin music and culture.