Charlie Cruz got an early start in show business, singing backup for his father, the renowned singer Fenay Cruz. Born in Puerto Rico but raised in New Jersey, Cruz also paid his dues as a member of Domingo Quiñones's musical collective in 1996. By '99 he was ready to make his solo debut, working with producer Sergio George for his first album, Imaginate. It was a categorical success, as were his following releases Asi Soy, Ven a Mi, and Como Nunca, to name a few. Over the years, Cruz has become one of the most beloved figures in the salsa scene.