HAVANA (AP) - The Abreu brothers, Fabio and Diego, aged 19 and 17, are emerging as influential figures in Cuba's music scene. Initially appearing shy, they transform into confident performers, captivating audiences with a unique blend of traditional jazz at venues like the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a cultural center in downtown Havana. Their rise comes at a crucial time when established Cuban artists are leaving the island due to the ongoing economic crisis, creating an opportunity for young musicians to fill the void.
Fabio Abreu emphasizes their passion for music, stating, "We do what we like and we’re fortunate enough to make a living from what we love." The brothers are part of a new wave of artists revitalizing Cuba’s music landscape, characterized by small private venues that have proliferated over the last decade. This growth has been notably supported by the expansion of internet access on the island since late 2018, enabling artists to promote their work via social media and music videos, even on limited budgets.
The diversity in Cuba’s musical landscape is remarkable, as young musicians blend traditional sounds, such as timba and salsa, with modern genres, including electronic music and hip hop. Michel Hernández, a music journalist, notes that the migration of established artists has necessitated the emergence of this new generation, resulting in hybrid styles that mix rock, pop, and Afro-Cuban rhythms. One prominent new genre is "reparto," a fusion of reggaeton with Caribbean sounds, known for its explicit lyrics and roots in the working-class neighborhoods of Havana.
One such rising star is Melanie Santiler, a 23-year-old pop artist who has cultivated a significant online presence with 248,000 followers on Instagram and 73,000 on YouTube. She believes that emerging musicians are crucial in shaping the future of Cuban music, calling this a "decisive moment" for the scene. Another notable figure is Dasiel Mustelier, known as Wampi, aged 22, who combines saxophone training with his work in the reparto genre. Wampi has attracted over 712,000 followers on Instagram and 300,000 on YouTube and is on the brink of a European tour, collaborating with renowned artists like Cimafunk.
The current musical phenomenon, "reparto," is gaining traction internationally, thanks to artists like El Taiger and Bebeshito, who have successfully reached audiences in the United States. Wampi encourages his peers, stating, "Young people should take full advantage of this moment," highlighting the potential for Cuban musicians to gain global recognition in an evolving musical landscape. As these young artists navigate the challenges of limited resources and an informal music industry, they continue to innovate and redefine the sounds of Cuba, ensuring that the nation’s rich musical heritage endures while also embracing fresh influences.
