The Cuban singer Omara Portuondo turns 94 this Tuesday, and although she recently made the difficult decision to step away from the stage, she remains one of the most cherished voices in Cuban music.
"Congratulations Omara Portuondo, the sweetheart of feeling, the diva of Buena Vista. A voice for all generations because everyone loves and admires you. I hope you have a wonderful birthday, surrounded by the love of your family, who is all of #Cuba," wrote the Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel on his social media.
Channel 22 of Mexican Television also remembered her as "one of the most important figures in Cuban popular music." Her significance is supported by various accolades and awards, including the Latin Grammy for Best Contemporary Tropical Album in 2009, with the album "Gracias," a compilation of traditional melodies, boleros, and jazz," they wrote.
For her part, Cuban singer Liuba María Hevia stated that "since I was a child, her voice accompanied me and showed me the way of Cuban music; her art has taken Cuba around the world, to the pride of all Cubans."
She mentioned that "it has been a true honor to collaborate with you, dear Omara, sharing not only the stage but also a passion for our music. Every moment we spend together is a treasure I keep in my heart."
The Latin GRAMMYs also acknowledged the date and stated that Omara is "the owner of one of the most romantic voices in Afro-Cuban music." They noted that she "has left the splendor of Latin music on stages around the world. She was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019."
The samples have been diverse and across various media, including social networks, radio, and television, perpetuating the legacy of a renowned Cuban artist.
At the beginning of October, the iconic Cuban singer, known as the "Diva of the Buena Vista Social Club," decided to retire permanently from the stage following an episode of fatigue and disorientation experienced during her performance at the Palau de la Música in Barcelona on Wednesday, October 2.
"For me, singing is life; it's my way of being. If you ask me about my favorite place, it will always be the stage, the song I sing, the next applause. As long as I have a voice and someone wants to hear me, let me sing," declared the legendary artist, known as "The Bride of Feeling."
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