There is no age to break through in music and have your talent recognized. Cuban singer Ángela Álvarez, 95, is fascinating living proof of that after winning the Latin Grammy Award for Best New Artist last Thursday.
“I want to thank the Academy and everyone who has helped me get to this moment. Especially the musicians declared Ángela Álvarez upon receiving the award. Before dedicating the award, with great emotion, to her family, her daughter Marucha, her nephew and music producer Carlos José Álvarez, and her village.
“I want to dedicate this award to God and to my beloved homeland, Cuba, which I will never be able to forget, as well as to those who have not fulfilled their dream. Though life is difficult there is always a way out and with faith and love they can make it through. I promise you. I love you all”he added to the thunderous applause.
A late career
Ángela Álvarez started recording her self-titled debut album released in 2021, at over 90 years old.
Together with world-class musicians and Grammy winners, such as Luis Conte, José Álvarez, Alberto Salas, Ramón Stagnaro and Justo Almario, he composed the 15 tracks.
A documentary, titled Miss Angelanarrated by Cuban actor and musician Andy Garcia, tells his story: from his departure from Cuba in the 60s, to his life in exile, to his resignation to be able to devote himself to music, and finally to the recording of the album and his first concert.
