Mourning in Cuban music: Renowned producer and representative Paquito Cruz Terry passes away

The passing of Paquito Cruz Terry, a well-known producer and artistic representative who dedicated his life to promoting and showcasing the talent of the island, occurred in the early hours of this Tuesday, shocking artists, colleagues, and followers of Cuban music both within and outside the country.

Cruz Terry was a key figure in the music industry, working with prominent bands and solo artists nationally.

During his artistic career, he was a music producer and representative of the orchestra Manolito Simonet y su Trabuco, as well as of the Alianza Musical de Cuba project, significantly contributing to the positioning of these groups in the music scene.

Additionally, Cruz Terry was the driving force behind “Ataca Chicho”, a tribute album to the Cuban flutist and composer José Luis Cortés, known as "El Tosco", which was released in 2023.

After the news of his passing was announced, numerous figures from the artistic world have expressed their sorrow on social media. Musicians, producers, and fans have highlighted his professionalism, commitment, and passion for Cuban music.

The National Center for Popular Music expressed its deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting his joy, creativity, and commitment to Cuban music.

This is how we will remember you: with your contagious laughter, your eagerness to create, and your brilliant ideas in the realm of music. 'La Alianza Musical' is saddened today, but the directors who make it up express their gratitude, especially the members of Manolito y su Trabuco, with whom you traveled the world, your family for many years,” they said in a Facebook post.

Moreover, they reported that the final farewell will take place at the funeral home on Calzada and K, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

On her part, Marianela Dufflar, a communicator from the Artistic and Literary Promotions agency Artex S.A, expressed her sorrow over his passing and recalled his tireless work in Cuban music.

"Artex loses Francisco Cruz Terry, one of its most beloved artistic producers, a collaborator and creator of high-profile aesthetic and musical projects. Known as Paquito in the Cuban and international cultural scene, he set a standard with his creativity and passion for Cuban popular music. A true gentleman, kind and full of Cuban spirit," he wrote on his social media.

From those platforms, the internet user Roilán Rodríguez Barbán recalled his last conversation with Manolito Simonet about Cruz Terry, noting his dedication to music and his role as a fundamental pillar within the industry.

The director of the Salsa Mayor orchestra, Maykel Blanco, also shared an emotional message on his social media: "Another brother leaves us, the great Paquito. A representative of Manolito Simonet for life, may God embrace you in His arms, brother. I will always remember you with that fighting spirit, defending our music and your unique fashion combinations, which gave us so much reason to have fun."

So far, the cause of his/her death has not been revealed.

Frequently asked questions about the legacy of Paquito Cruz Terry and his impact on Cuban music