Based on my extensive sample of two (see also: Cesaria Evora), I have determined that the key to being a successful female Afro-Latin singer is a) having a first name that ends in “a”; 2) having a last name that also ends in “a”; and 3) performing barefoot. This one’s for Cedric, whose choice of Susana Baca tickets as a birthday present years ago introduced me to her awesomeness.

Susana Baca AllMusic page