This year, the world is dancing once again to the timeless rhythms of the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz. To honor her centennial and celebrate her incomparable legacy, SiriusXM has launched Celia Cruz AZÚCAR!, a new year-round channel dedicated to her life, music, and impact on generations of fans.
Available now on the SiriusXM app, the channel will also hit the airwaves in cars for a special limited run on Channel 79 from September 26 to October 3, just in time for Hispanic Heritage Month.
A Centennial Celebration of a Legend
For 100 years, Celia Cruz’s unmistakable voice and fiery spirit have inspired dancers, musicians, and dreamers worldwide. From her groundbreaking recordings with Fania Records to her global anthems of the early 2000s, her music remains as vibrant as ever.
On Celia Cruz AZÚCAR!, listeners can immerse themselves in her classic hits, beloved fan favorites, and collaborations with icons such as Tito Puente, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, Buena Vista Social Club, Angelique Kidjo, La India, and more. The channel will also spotlight artists who carry her influence forward today.
Must-Hear Specials
The launch month is packed with exclusive programming that blends music, stories, and personal memories:
- Celia & Tito – Hosted by Tito Puente Jr., this series revisits the electrifying magic of Celia Cruz and Tito Puente, highlighting unforgettable recordings and family memories.
- Quarter Legacy – With Celia Cruz now immortalized on the U.S. quarter, her goddaughter La India curates 25 of her essential anthems.
- Tabaco y Ron – Salsa legend Willy Chirino reflects on his friendship with Celia while sharing her most beloved boleros.
- 100 Years of ¡Azúcar! All Stars Concert – A once-in-a-lifetime event featuring Albita, Jose Alberto El Canario, Lena Burke, Leslie Cartaya, Lucrecia, Tony & Mimi Succar, and Willy Chirino performing Celia’s greatest hits live from the SiriusXM Miami studios.
Celia’s Enduring Legacy
Born in Havana, Celia Cruz rose from humble beginnings to become one of Latin music’s most influential figures. She blazed trails as a woman in a male-dominated genre, won countless awards, and left an indelible cultural mark with her signature exclamation: ¡Azúcar!
In 2024, she became the first Afro-Latina woman honored on U.S. currency, forever enshrined on the American quarter. Today, her music and spirit continue to transcend borders and generations.
How to Listen
Fans can tune in to Celia Cruz AZÚCAR! on the SiriusXM app year-round and enjoy the special Hispanic Heritage Month broadcast on Channel 79 from September 26 through October 3.
New to SiriusXM? Eligible listeners can sign up and enjoy three free months to experience Celia’s music and much more.
Learn more at https://sxm.app.link/celiacruz.
