Cuba’s Celia Cruz Gets Lifetime Grammy Achievement Award

The late Celia Cruz was given a Lifetime Grammy Award on Feb. 15, 2016. (Photo by Frank Micelotta/Getty Images.)

By NAN ET Writer

News Americas, LOS ANGELES, CA, Tues. Feb. 16, 2016: Cuban-born Queen of Salsa, the late Celia Cruz, was last night given a lifetime award at the 58th annual Grammy’s Award.

Cruz who left Cuba in July of 1960 to record in the U.S. alongside legends like Tito Puente and Johnny Pacheco, created the “Salsa of the 70s” that made her famous. In 1989 her “Ritmo En El Corazón” won a Grammy for Best Tropical Latin Performance. She won her first Latin Grammy in 2000 for Best Tropical Record.

Other Lifetime Achievement Award recipients included Ruth Brown, Earth, Wind & Fire, Herbie Hancock, Jefferson Airplane, Linda Ronstadt, and Run-D.M.C.

“Each year, The Academy has the distinct privilege of honoring those who have greatly contributed to our industry and cultural heritage, and this year we have a gifted and brilliant group of honorees,” said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy.” Their exceptional accomplishments, contributions, and artistry will continue to influence and inspire generations to come.”