"Queen of Salsa" Celia Cruz is dead
MIAMI (AFP) - Celia Cruz, the legendary Cuban-born singer hailed as the "Queen of Salsa" died at her New Jersey home, radio and television reported Wednesday. Cruz was 78.
She had been operated for a brain tumor in November, and had been hospitalized on several occasions since.
Radio and television stations said her body would be brought to Miami where she is hailed as a national hero by the 700,000 strong Cuban exile community.
A vibrant and tireless performer, who would fire up her audience with her trademark shout of "Azucar" -- sugar -- she said only a few months ago she had no intention to give up singing.
She played a major role in promoting Cuban music internationally, and in February this year, she received her fifth Grammy for the best salsa recording of the year.
She studied at the Conservatory of Music in Havana, sang on Cuban radio programs and, in 1950, became the lead singer of the legendary Sonora Matancera.
She and the band left Cuba shortly before Castro took power and eventually settled in the United States. "Castro never forgave me," said Cruz, who was never allowed to return to her homeland.
In 1966 Cruz, known for her gaudy costumes, joined the Tito Puente band, and later recorded numerous solo albums. Among her latest hits is "La vida es un carnaval" -- Life is a carnival.