Although legendary Cuban-American singer Celia Cruz passed away more than a decade ago, her signature catch phrase, “¡Azúcar!,” still echoes against the walls of the hearts, minds, and morning showers of salsa fans throughout the globe. Celia Cruz: The Absolute Collection reminds music fans of how the iconic singer became known internationally as the “Queen of Salsa” with a two-disc collection spanning her entire career. The box set’s 30 re-mastered tracks follow Cruz’s musical evolution as she collaborated with fellow Latin music legend Tito Puente, as well as Joey Pacheco, Willie Colon, and other members of the groundbreaking salsa collective the Fania All-Stars.
The accompanying 60-page book celebrates the vibrancy, liveliness, and unrelenting energy of Celia Cruz’s career with more than 70 previously unpublished photographs, as well as quotes from high-profile admirers, including Beyoncé, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, and Whoopi Goldberg. Writer and radio personality Tom Schnabel also provides fans with more insight into Cruz’s life with meticulously written liner notes throughout the book.
· Box set authorized by the Celia Cruz estate
· Commemorates 10th anniversary of Cruz’s passing
· Two-disc collection spanning Cruz’s career
· 30 total re-mastered tracks, including “Guantanamera,” “Ritmo En El Corazon,” and “La Negra Tiene Tumbao”
· Songs with collaborators Tito Puente, Johnny Pacheco, and Willie Colon
· 60-page full-color book
· More than 70 previously unpublished photographs and memorabilia
· Quotes from fellow entertainers and high-profile admirers
· Extensive liner notes by Tom Schnabel of KCRW in Santa Monica, California
