Xiomara Laugart

Cuban singer Xiomara Laugart is currently based in Massachusetts after making her name in her native country performing nueva trova music, a kind of politicised folk defined by its connection with Fidel Castro's revolution. In Cuba, Laugart is known simply as Le Negra in reference to her ethnic origins.

The artist hails from the Guantanamo province of Cuba and prior to turning professional she studied economics. After moving to New York she joined the acclaimed Afro-Latin band Yerba Buena which was founded by the Venezuelan musician and producer Andres Levin. Laugart sang on the band's seminal album 'President Alien' recorded in 2003 which went on to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album category.

After leaving Yerba Buena Laugart was cast into the lead role of the musical 'Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz', a biographical tribute to the the late Cuban-American singer. The show was an off-Broadway success in 2007 and went on to tour at venues across America. Her performance as Celia won Laugart widespread critical acclaim and provided the foundation for her successful solo career.