Born: 29 October 1930, Cuba
Died: NA
Country most active: Cuba
Also known as: Omara Portuondo Peláez
The following bio was written by Emma Rosen, author of On This Day She Made History: 366 Days With Women Who Shaped the World and This Day In Human Ingenuity & Discovery: 366 Days of Scientific Milestones with Women in the Spotlight, and has been republished with permission.
Omara Portuondo Peláez is a well-known Cuban singer and dancer. She co-founded the popular vocal group Cuarteto d’Aida and has collaborated with various influential Cuban musicians throughout her extensive career, including Julio Gutiérrez, Juanito Márquez, and Chucho Valdés. Although she is best known for her bolero performances, she has ventured into various musical styles, from jazz to son cubano.
Since 1996, she has been a prominent member of the Buena Vista Social Club project, touring extensively and contributing to multiple albums with the ensemble. In recognition of her talent, she received the Latin Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Tropical Album in 2009 and a Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. Additionally, she boasts three Grammy Award nominations.