Albita Rodríguez, known simply as Albita, is a celebrated Cuban singer who has made significant contributions to the world of music since her early career. Born in Havana, she began performing professionally at the age of fifteen, focusing on renewing traditional Cuban music forms such as son cubano and música guajira. Her debut album, “Habrá Música Guajira,” released in 1988, showcased her original compositions and established her as a prominent figure in Cuban folk music. The single “Parranda, Laúd y Son” achieved remarkable success, topping charts across Latin America.
In 1993, Albita made a pivotal move to the United States, where she quickly garnered attention from influential figures in the entertainment industry, including Quincy Jones and Madonna. Her signing with Emilio Estefan’s Crescent Moon label marked a new chapter in her career, leading to the release of her first U.S. album, “No Se Parece a Nada,” in 1995. The album was a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies and earning critical acclaim, including a nomination for the Latin Grammy Awards.
Albita’s career continued to flourish as she toured extensively across the globe, performing alongside legendary artists such as Celia Cruz and Phil Collins. Her music has been featured in various films, and she has received multiple Grammy nominations and wins, solidifying her status as a leading figure in contemporary tropical music. In 2004, she founded her own label, Angel’s Dawn Records, under which she released the Grammy-winning album “Albita Llegó.”
In addition to her recording success, Albita has made notable appearances in theater, including a role in the Broadway musical “The Mambo Kings.” She remains active in the music scene, hosting her own show, “La Descarga con Albita,” and continues to perform at significant cultural events, including concerts celebrating National Hispanic Pride. Her dedication to music and her cultural roots has earned her a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Recording Academy in 2024.
