Remembering Celia Cruz on the Anniversary of Her Death

Celia Cruz, the undisputed Queen of Salsa, left a legacy as powerful as her voice. On July 16, 2003, Cruz died in Fort Lee, New Jersey, at age 77. She would have turned 100 this year.

Known for iconic tracks like "La Vida Es Un Carnaval," "Qué Le Den Candela," and "Quimbara," Cruz remains a musical powerhouse whose influence transcends generations. Though she never called Miami home, Cruz held a deep connection to the 305. She frequently performed here throughout her career, gracing stages with Sonora Matancera and Fania All-Stars, earning legions of loyal fans in South Florida. In recognition of her cultural impact, Miami Beach named a street in her honor: Celia Cruz Way.

Born in Havana in 1925, Cruz grew up in a lively, music-filled household as the eldest of fourteen children. Her voice surfaced early — singing before she could walk — never left her side. Despite her Catholic upbringing and her father's hopes that she'd become a teacher, Cruz found her calling in music, soaking up influences from across Cuba, including Santería chants learned from neighbors and later studied with singer Merceditas Valdés. By the time she joined Sonora Matancera in 1950, she was already a star in the making.

Most recently, Cruz was honored by percussionist Sheila E. with a fiery rendition of "Bemba Colorá," featuring Miami icons Gloria Estefan and Mimy Succar.

Miami has also celebrated Cruz's legacy institutionally. The Museum of Art and Design at Miami Dade College (MOAD) recently hosted an exhibition titled Celia Cruz: Works, showcasing her life, artistry, and cultural impact through an immersive retrospective.

Below are five of our favorite Celia Cruz songs:

1. "La Vida Es Un Carnaval"

One of her most uplifting anthems, this track has become synonymous with Cruz's life philosophy. Released in 1998, it reminds listeners that even in hard times, life is worth celebrating. It's a staple at local block parties and when they need a feel-good song.

2. "Que Le Den Candela"

A fiery salsa classic that showcases Cruz's commanding delivery and rhythmic prowess. This track gets hips moving and remains a favorite in Miami dance clubs and Latin-themed nights.

3. "Quimbara"

This collaboration with Johnny Pacheco, a percussive powerhouse, blends Afro-Cuban rhythms with Cruz's unmistakable vocal energy. The song is a Miami radio staple and a must-play at any serious salsa night.

4. "Bemba Colorá"

Recently reimagined by Sheila E. with Gloria Estefan and Mimy Succar, this classic pays homage to Cruz's Afro-Latin roots. The title translates to "Big Red Lips," and it is both a celebration and a reclamation of cultural identity. Many consider it an anti-racist song.

5. "La Negra Tiene Tumbao"

A late-career hit that combines salsa with hip-hop and reggaeton influences, proving Cruz was always ahead of her time. The track resonates with the diverse soundscape of Miami and remains a cross-generational favorite.