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From the streets of Havana to the dancefloors of New York and beyond, "¡Puro Ritmo!" explores how Afro-Cuban music evolved into a defining sound in the U.S. This bilingual exhibition traces salsa’s roots and rise through nearly 300 objects. Highlighting artists from Tito Puente and Celia Cruz to local legends and hidden pioneers, "¡Puro Ritmo!" celebrates salsa as one of America’s great musical traditions.

A centerpiece of the exhibition is the presentation of five ensembles and five pairs of shoes worn by Celia Cruz, celebrated worldwide as the Queen of Salsa. Gifted by the Estate of Celia Cruz, the five dresses and a pair of shoes are now part of the Latino Museum’s permanent collection. The outfits will rotate throughout the exhibition’s two-and-a-half-year run, offering visitors multiple opportunities to experience Cruz’s vibrant stage presence.In addition to Cruz, the exhibition highlights iconic figures such as Tito Puente and Eddie Palmieri, as well as influential artists including Arsenio Rodríguez, Graciela, Ray Barretto and Willie Colón. It also explores the industry-shaping impact of Fania Records and its cofounders, Jerry Masucci and Johnny Pacheco.