(Image: Stanford Hispanic Broadcasting)
Thirteen years after the passing of the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz will receive a Grammy lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy. Cruz, who sang with greats like Johnny Pacheco, Sonora Matancera and Willie Colón, won three Grammy Awards and four Latin Grammy Awards during her career. A powerful soloist, 23 of her albums went gold.
The award honors performers who have made contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording, notes the Grammys official website. “Each year, The Academy has the distinct privilege of honoring those who have greatly contributed to our industry and cultural heritage, and this year we have a gifted and brilliant group of honorees,” said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy.” Their exceptional accomplishments, contributions, and artistry will continue to influence and inspire generations to come.”
The Cuban salsera not only impacted the music industry with her voice and unique sense of style, but the larger Latino community as a beaming example of pride in our African roots. (We, here at Ain’t I Latina? stan for her!)
We may’ve lost the star in 2003, but her legacy continues to reign on.
The 58th annual Grammys will air on February 16, 2016 on CBS.
