We are paying tribute to Celia Cruz who means so much to all Latinos regardless of nationality, race, creed because she was true Azúcar. Celia Cruz left this world on July 16, 2003 but she has not left us because her spirit lives on. Her music, songs, and inspirations passed on from generation to generation will continue to be passed for many generations to come. This was evident in the Queen of Salsa’s memorial services in Miami and in New York where tens of thousands of people paid their last respects to Celia Cruz, La Guarachera de Cuba.

For those who could not be there to formally bid farewell to Celia Cruz, follow us as we chronicle the experience in New York City where Latinos paused for a moment to pay respect to the beloved Celia Cruz. La Diva was there placing flowers at Celia Cruz’ home in Fort Lee, New Jersey, on the 2 hour line at Frank E. Campbell’s Funeral Home for the wake, in the pouring rain at St. Patrick’s Cathedral for the mass, and at the burial in Woodlawn Cemetary in the Bronx. The voyage was long and tiring but it was the final time to show Celia Cruz and the world how we love her so. ˇAzúcar!