Biography

SureyaLa Dama de la Salsa

Born and raised in Guantanamo, Cuba, it was clear at an early age that Sureya Perez was blessed with a natural talent for music. Although Sureya often performed for her family, her first experiences on stage were in elementary school, where she was often chosen as lead singer for school events and recitals.

While in her early teens, Sureya relocated to Chicago’s northwest side and in addition to polishing her vocal skills, she began taking courses in classical & modern dance. As a member of the Resurrection Church Choir, she was chosen to represent Chicago at the Regional Catholic Church Conference. In Chicago, Local & regional talent shows soon followed, and in 1994 Sureya won BEST FEMALE VOCALIST at FESTIVAL BUSCANDO ESTRELLAS.

The following year Sureya won first place) at the OTI FESTIVAL INTERNACIONAL DE LA CANCION competition with her passionate interpretation of the Juan Gabriel Composition “De Mi Enamorate”. During her career, Sureya has perfomed with different orchestras, with whom she has appeared at numerous festivals, corporate events, and private affairs in different cities of the United States, and in Puerto Rico, Spain and Cuba. She has also made guest appearances with Ensemble Kalinda, a lecture/performance troupe sponsored by Columbia College’s Center For Black Music Research.

As a solo artist, Sureya has performed at Chicago hot spots such as Excalibur Nite Club, & De Cache, as well as various fundraising events for the Cuban American Chamber of Commerce. Currently, she is preparing material for her first solo CD that is tentatively scheduled for release fall of 2012. The album will feature a mix of Salsa, and Latin Pop.