Crespo, América

Persona

Crespo, América

1922-1995

América Crespo was born in Havana, Cuba on October 22, 1922. She was a singer whose voice was featured in the musical works of Ernesto Lecuona and Gonzalo Roig. She gained popularity from her presence on the popular radio program “La Corte Suprema del Arte.” This program, which existed pre-1959, served as a platform for Cuban artists and entertainers to introduce their works to a larger audience and many famous Cuban artists had their start on this radio program. She later was signed as an exclusive artist to the RHC Azul radio station, which ran from 1940-1954 and was very popular on the island. In the 1950’s, Crespo interpreted some of her mentor Gonzalo Roig’s best works, along with artist Esther Borja. Her musical repertoire was heavily influenced by Cuban and international lyrical music. She made several discs, including “La Música de Gonzalo Roig,” “América Crespo - Arias, Valses Y Canciones Selectas” and “Amor en primavera.” She lived in the United States until her death in 1995.

Biographical note written by Kate Villa, 2020-2021 UGrow Fellow for Manuscripts and Archives Management, and edited by Amanda Moreno, February 2024.

1. América Crespo - EcuRed

2. Corte Suprema del Arte - EcuRed

3. RHC Cadena Azul - EcuRed