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The legacy of Celia Cruz shone during the third edition of Billboard Women in Music. The unforgettable "Queen of Salsa" was posthumously awarded the Legend Award in a heartfelt tribute to her extraordinary career and her centenary of birth.
The Billboard gala took place on the night of Thursday, April 24. It featured a vibrant musical performance by Ivy Queen, La India, and Olga Tañón, who performed some of Cruz's most iconic hits, paying tribute to her unique voice, unmatched charisma, and lasting influence on Latin music.
"In the name of the legacy of Celia Cruz, we express our heartfelt gratitude to La India, Olga Tañón, and Ivy Queen for the emotional tribute during Billboard Women in Music 2025. We also thank Leila Cobo from Billboard, Nelson Albareda, and the entire team at Loud & Live for keeping Celia's legacy alive through this very special celebration. Thank you for honoring her music, her spirit, and her impact," stated from the official Instagram profile of the Queen of Salsa.
Born in Havana on October 21, 1925, Celia Cruz recorded more than 70 albums, won three consecutive Latin Grammy Awards in her later years, and established herself as the most iconic figure in Cuban music, famous for her overwhelming energy, colorful outfits, and her famous cry of "¡Azúcar!".
More than twenty years after her departure, the music of Celia Cruz continues to resonate powerfully. In 2024, her songs recorded 64 million official on-demand streams in the United States, reaffirming the relevance of her art and her intergenerational influence.
The celebration organized by Billboard, produced by Loud & Live and supported by figures like Leila Cobo and Nelson Albareda, highlighted not only Celia's music but also her tireless spirit and monumental contribution to Latin culture.
Frequently Asked Questions about the tribute to Celia Cruz at the Billboard Women in Music 2025
Why was Celia Cruz honored at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 event?
The tribute to Celia Cruz was held in commemoration of her centennial birthday, highlighting her extraordinary career and influence in Latin music. Despite having passed away over two decades ago, her legacy remains relevant and is considered a symbol of female empowerment and Afro-Caribbean pride.
Which artists participated in the tribute to Celia Cruz during the Billboard gala?
Ivy Queen, La India, and Olga Tañón were the artists who participated in the tribute to Celia Cruz. They performed some of her most iconic hits, highlighting Cruz's influence on Latin music and celebrating her legacy as the "Queen of Salsa."
How is Celia Cruz's music still relevant today?
Celia Cruz's music remains relevant due to her extensive musical legacy, which includes over 70 albums. In 2024, her songs recorded 64 million streams in the United States, demonstrating her ongoing influence and ability to resonate with new generations worldwide.
What is the cultural impact of Celia Cruz in the Latin community?
Celia Cruz was an icon of Cuban and Latin music, known for bringing Afro-Cuban rhythms to the global stage. Her legacy transcends music, serving as a symbol of cultural resistance and female empowerment. Cruz has also been recognized as the first Afro-Latina woman to appear on a U.S. coin, reflecting her lasting impact on Latin culture.
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