In April, the NPRDP announced that the 2024 Madrina (Godmother) will be Lisa Vélez, aka Lisa Lisa from Cult Jam.Born in Manhattan to a Puerto Rican family, Vélez is recognized as an iconic singer/songwriter and pioneer in the genres of Latin Hip-Hop, Freestyle and Pop music. Her hit songs, like “Can You Feel the Beat,” “Head to Toe,” and “Lost in Emotion,” have made generations of people sing and dance to her unique, Latino-inspired sound. An active performer, Lisa Lisa is touring this year. In 2025, her classic hit, “I Wonder If I Take You Home,” will mark 40 years since its release.
Additional Parade Honorees Announced include:
-Hijo de Borinquen (Son of Puerto Rico) Frankie Cutlass: DJ, Producer and recording artist who is celebrating the 30th anniversary of his classic Hip Hop song “Puerto Rico.”
-José “Piculín” Ortíz .Retired professional basketball player who played for the NBA and Puerto Rico’s Baloncesto Superior Nacional
–Andrea Navedo: Author and TV actor best known for her role asXiomara Villanueva in Jane the Virgin
–Liza Colón Zayas: Emmy Award-winning actress and playwright, currently starring as Tina Marrero in the The Bear
*Salsa Legend Tito Nieves is the Grand Marshall
Colorstream Media 