A spiritual ceremony blending Cuban folk religions will be dedicated to the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz, and other deceased musical figures in July. This event will be held on July 4th by the folk music and dance group Nsila Cheche at the Buena Vista Club Cultural Center in Havana, as reported by Cuban journalist Michel Hernández.
Hernández mentioned that the resources for the event, which will also pay tribute to Adolfo Guzmán, Isaac Nicola, José Manuel Aniceto, El Dany, Sindo Garay, Compay Segundo, Pupy Pedroso, and Elio Revé, will be provided by the members of the group hosting the evening.
"These are figures of Cuban music who are no longer physically with us, but they are spiritually present," said a message from the group, cited by Hernández.
He also highlighted the significance of holding such a religious event in Cuba for Celia Cruz, who was historically censored for her political stance, and whose music is rarely played on state media. Hernández emphasized that it is noteworthy that Cuban musicians are paying respect to these overlooked symbols.
Family and friends of the artists being remembered are invited to the ceremony, which will feature their music and showcase images from their history.
Celia Cruz was born on October 21, 1925, in Cuba and passed away on July 16, 2003, in the United States, due to a brain tumor. Celia brought her music to the world with the Fania All-Stars, receiving numerous accolades including multiple platinum and gold records, three Grammy Awards, four Latin Grammy Awards, the Presidential Medal of the Arts, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Her legacy is so significant that the U.S. Mint officially announced the final designs for the third year of the American Women Quarters Program, which will feature Celia Cruz alongside other illustrious women, set to circulate beginning in 2024.
Recently, the album "Celia Cruz En Vivo: 100 Años de Azúcar" was released, a commemorative compilation dedicated to her centenary, including nine previously unreleased tracks recorded live in Miami during 1986 and 1987.
Key Questions on Celia Cruz's Legacy and the Ceremony
To provide more context about Celia Cruz's legacy and the upcoming ceremony in her honor, we have compiled some essential questions and answers.
Why is Celia Cruz significant in the world of music?
Celia Cruz is renowned as the Queen of Salsa and is celebrated for bringing Cuban music to a global audience. She received numerous accolades and her legacy continues to inspire new generations.
What is the significance of the spiritual ceremony in Cuba?
The spiritual ceremony is significant as it honors the memory of influential Cuban musicians, including Celia Cruz, who have been historically censored. It represents a gesture of respect and recognition from Cuban musicians.
Who else will be honored at the ceremony?
The ceremony will also pay tribute to other notable Cuban musicians such as Adolfo Guzmán, Isaac Nicola, José Manuel Aniceto, El Dany, Sindo Garay, Compay Segundo, Pupy Pedroso, and Elio Revé.