Representation of Latin music
Spanish music would not be what it is today without Gloria María Milagrosa Fajardo García, better known as Gloria Estefan. The Cuban-American singer, who was born on September 1, 1957, is one of the most highly-recognized singers in the music industry. During her 40-year trajectory, she has sold close to 90 million albums, won seven Grammy awards and is part of the Top 100 musicians with the most all-time sales.
First Years
Gloria was born in Cuba. At an early age, she migrated to the U.S. with her family. Following her studies in psychology at the University of Miami, Gloria joined a band that played Cuban music which later became known as The Miami Sound Machine. The group was led by Emilio Estefan, whom she married in September 1978. The couple has two children, Nayiv Estefan, 38 and Emily, 24.
MORE: Emily Estefan describes 'nerve-wracking' moment she joined mom Gloria onstage
Her First Hits
The band debuted their first album in 1977 called Renacer/Live Again, which includes their first hit: Renacer. In 1985 they launched Primitive Love with the song Conga, becoming one of Gloria’s most popular songs. Along with the band, the singer had other great hits such as Can’t Stay Away From You, Suave and Hot Summer Nights. Moreover, in 1986 they won three Billboard Music Awards.