Alejandra Drullard Rosario
Celia Cruz was born in Havana Cuba on October 21, 1925, and passed away on July 16, 2003. Cruz was a Cuban American singer who reigned for decades as the “Queen of Salsa Music,” electrifying audiences with her soulful voice and rhythmically compelling style. She was drawn to music from an early age. As a teenager, her aunt and cousin took her to cabarets to perform. She studied voice, theory and piano at Havana’s National Conservatory of Music. Cruz’s big break came when she became the lead singer for the Afro-Cuban orchestra, La Sonora Matancera.
She was known for singing a style of Cuban music with rapid tempo and comical lyrics. During this time Cruz adopted her trademark exclamation, “azúcar!” which translates to “sugar!” in English, symbolizing her vibrant personality and the sweetness she brought into the salsa world. She spent 15 years with La Sonora Mantancera and later began as a solo artist in 1965. In 1990 she won her first Grammy Award for her album “Ritmo En El Corazón.” Throughout her career, Cruz recorded nearly 40 albums. She is best known for her powerful voice, colorful costumes, and energizing rhythm.
This year marks her one-hundredth birthday, and her legacy is celebrated in a truly remarkable way. Celia Cruz is still exactly what she was about seventy-one years ago, the “Queen of Salsa.” She is the first Afro-Latina to appear on the quarter as part of the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarter Program. The new quarter features Cruz in her vibrant Cuban dress, complete with her iconic catchphrase, “azúcar!” surrounding the national motto. In a press release, Ventris C. Gibson stated, “All of the women honored have unique accomplishments that have significantly impacted the history of our nation.” This year, the U.S. Mint celebrates Cruz alongside several notable women who have made significant contributions to various fields, including science, art and civil rights.
Omer Pardillo-Cid, Cruz’s last artistic representative and executor of her estate, shared his thoughts in an interview on this honor. He reflected on how Cruz's legacy continues to resonate with people of all backgrounds. “But being honored by the U.S. Mint in this way would have surprised her greatly,” he remarked. Cruz was known by many as a sweet and amazing woman who always found a reason to smile big, even in the face of adversity.
As we celebrate this milestone, it's essential to recognize how Cruz’s contributions extend beyond music. She broke barriers in a male-dominated industry, inspiring countless artists, particularly women and Afro-Latinas, to pursue their dreams. Her powerful voice and dynamic performances continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Moreover, her ability to embrace her cultural heritage while promoting inclusivity serves as a testament to her character.
This quarter is not just a piece of currency; it is a tribute to the spirit of a woman who faced challenges head-on and emerged victorious, leaving an indelible mark on the world. As her music continues to play, we are reminded of her vibrant legacy, which is celebrated not only through this honor but also in the hearts of those who love her work. In a world where representation matters more than ever, Cruz’s image on the quarter serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding all of us of the importance of celebrating diverse voices and stories.
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