CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON ONLY THEY COULD HAVE MADE THIS ALBUM 12" Vinyl LP Album

Vaya Records

The 1977 release of "Celia Cruz & Willie Colón: Only They Could Have Made This" marked a pinnacle in salsa's golden era. Produced by Willie Colón and Jerry Masucci, the album fused Cruz's commanding vocals with Colón's innovative arrangements. Captured by Lee Marshall's lens, the album cover visually echoed their royal titles. Reflecting the vibrant late '70s, it became a timeless salsa masterpiece, resonating globally.

 

CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON - Only They Could Have Made This Album Vaya Records 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

"Only They Could Have Made This" Album Description:

The release of the 1977 album "Celia Cruz & Willie Colón: Only They Could Have Made This" marked a significant moment in the vibrant world of salsa music. This collaborative masterpiece brought together two giants of the genre, the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz, and the King of Salsa, Willie Colón. The album, released on the Vaya Records label, not only showcased the incredible talents of these two iconic artists but also reflected the essence of the time period in which it was produced.

The year 1977 was a pivotal time for salsa music, with the genre reaching new heights in popularity and influence. Salsa, born from the fusion of various Latin and Afro-Caribbean musical styles, had become a global phenomenon, capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. The 1970s witnessed the golden era of salsa, and the release of this album contributed to the genre's continued ascendancy.

Produced by the dynamic duo of Willie Colón and Jerry Masucci, the album bore the imprint of their musical genius. Willie Colón, known for his innovative approach to salsa, and Jerry Masucci, co-founder of Fania Records, played pivotal roles in shaping the sound of salsa during this era. Their collaboration on this project ensured a seamless blend of Cruz's commanding vocals and Colón's distinctive musical arrangements.

The album cover, featuring a photograph by Lee Marshall, adds a visual dimension to the auditory experience. Marshall's lens captured the regal presence of Celia Cruz and the commanding stature of Willie Colón, visually echoing the royal titles bestowed upon them in the salsa realm. The album cover became an iconic representation of the union of these two salsa legends.

Musically, the album showcased a diverse range of salsa styles, from the rhythmic complexities of salsa dura to the soulful expressions of salsa romantica. Cruz's powerful and emotive vocals, combined with Colón's innovative use of trombones and percussion, created a rich tapestry of sounds that resonated with audiences globally.

In the context of the late 1970s, the album's release coincided with a period of social and cultural shifts. Salsa music served as a cultural bridge, connecting communities and transcending borders. The rhythms and melodies of "Only They Could Have Made This" became a soundtrack for celebrations, dance floors, and shared moments of joy during this vibrant era.

Genre: Salsa Music
Producers:  Produced by WIllie Colon & Jerry Masucci , Photography: Lee Marshall

Record Label Information:

 VAYA VS-66
Media Format:12" Vinyl LP Gramophone Record  

Year and Country:

 1977, Made in the USA
Band Members and Musicians on: CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON ONLY THEY COULD HAVE MADE THIS ALBUM VAYA LP
Track Listing of: CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON ONLY THEY COULD HAVE MADE THIS ALBUM VAYA LP
    Side One:
  1. Usted Abuso
  2. A Pap
  3. Plazos Traicioneros
  4. Pun Pun Catalu
  5. Zambullete
    Side Two:
  1. Tu Y Las Nubes
  2. Todos Somos Iguales
  3. Dulce Habanera
  4. Rinkinkatta
  5. Burundanga

 

Front Cover Photo Of CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON - Only They Could Have Made This Album Vaya Records 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON - Only They Could Have Made This Album Vaya Records 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

 Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Photo Of The Back Cover CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON - Only They Could Have Made This Album Vaya Records 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON - Only They Could Have Made This Album Vaya Records 12" Vinyl LP Album back cover

Close up of record's label CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON - Only They Could Have Made This Album Vaya Records 12" Vinyl LP Album Side One

"Only They Could Have Made This Album" Record Label Details: VAYA Records VS-66 ℗ 1977 Vaya Records Sound Copyright