One of the advantages of marrying into a Cuban family is finding out about all the awesome Cuban Salsa and Tropical music you never knew existed.

Putting on some really good Tropical is like caffeine for your ears....it just makes life go with more energy.

Benny Moré, Perez Prado, Buena Vista Social Club, Afro-Cuban All-Stars...all great stuff. But the best of the best, in my mind, is Celia Cruz. This woman could SING. Especially in her later years, when she had this fantastic rasp to her (really powerful) voice...she just sounds amazing.

If you're in the mood to try a little mĂşsica cubana, and aren't familiar with Celia Cruz, pick up a few sample tracks. Here are some of my favorites:

Azucar Negra
Por Si Acaso No Regreso
Cuándo Volverá
Tu Voz
Feliz En Tu Dia