An impassioned homage to the divas who shook up our world and transformed American culture with their bold, dazzling artistry. What does it mean to be a “diva”? The term has been used both to deride and celebrate charismatic and unapologetically fierce performers like Aretha Franklin and the women of Labelle. In this brilliant and powerful blend of incisive criticism and electric memoir, Deborah Paredez―scholar, cultural critic, and lifelong diva devotee―unravels our enduring fascination with these icons.  American Diva journeys into Tina Turner’s scintillating performances, Celia Cruz’s command of the male-dominated salsa world, and the unparalleled excellence of Venus and Serena Williams. Exploring her childhood immersion in Rita Moreno’s powerhouse portrayal of  West Side Story’s Anita and her admiration of her fabulous Tía Lucia, Paredez chronicles these celebrated and skilled performers who boldly expressed American aspirations for freedom among Brown, Black, and gay communities. Filled with sharp insights and great heart,  American Diva is a spirited tribute to the power of performance and the joys of fandom. 15 illustrations