On a night filled with emotions and nostalgia, the troubadour Carlos Varela surprised the audience at the Leoni Torres concert this Friday in Madrid, as he took the stage amidst applause and exclaimed loudly: “Long live free Cuba!”.
The applause was immediate. In such a sensitive moment for Cubans inside and outside the island, Varela's gesture was more than symbolic: it was a shout of hope and resilience.
The artists performed “So That One Day You Return,” a song that Leoni wrote and sang alongside Pablo Milanés, and which now finds a new resonance with Varela's voice.
Leoni Torres was visibly moved during the concert by the musical reunion and the significance that the lyrics hold for so many Cubans living far from their homeland.
Varela recounted his experience on Instagram: “How beautiful and exciting it was to share the stage last night with my dear Leoni Torres at his fantastic concert in Madrid! Thank you, my brother, for your affection, your voice, and your humility. God bless you!”
The comments on social media quickly highlighted the experience as an "epic," "wonderful," "tremendous" moment, and a "dream come true" for those who were able to be there.
A fan wrote: “No one could replace Pablo Milanés in that song better than Carlos Varela.” Another summed up the collective sentiment with these words: “It brought together good music, elegance, and great lyrics… both say it all.”
In the midst of the worsening of repression in Cuba and the rising poverty that drives thousands of Cubans to emigrate, this song performed in Madrid struck a deep chord.
A verse like “While I remain here, and my days are passing by…” became the collective song of longing and the unwavering desire for family reunification.
That night, from a distant city in Europe, two Cuban voices remembered their loved ones on the island who are facing countless difficulties. They keep hope alive and dream of a change in Cuba... "so that one day you can return and everything will be in order".
Frequently Asked Questions about the Carlos Varela and Leoni Torres Concert in Madrid
Why was Carlos Varela's shout of "Long live free Cuba!" at the concert in Madrid significant?
The cry of "Long live free Cuba!" by Carlos Varela was a symbol of hope and resistance at a critical moment for Cubans, both on the island and abroad. This gesture resonated deeply due to the repression and poverty in Cuba, which have driven many to emigrate. The fact that it took place at a concert with Leoni Torres, an artist who is also critical of the regime, amplifies the message of longing for freedom.
What was the song performed by Carlos Varela and Leoni Torres, and what does it mean?
Carlos Varela and Leoni Torres performed "Para que un día vuelvas," a song written by Leoni Torres and Pablo Milanés. This song represents a collective expression of longing and the desire to return to Cuba, resonating with many Cubans living in exile and facing challenges far from their homeland.
What has been Leoni Torres' relationship with the Cuban regime?
Leoni Torres has had a tumultuous relationship with the Cuban regime since he publicly supported the protests on July 11, 2021. His critical stance led to reprisals, such as an attack on his son and the inability to work in the country, which ultimately drove him to emigrate. His statements and music reflect his desire for a free and democratic Cuba.
What is Carlos Varela's stance on the political situation in Cuba?
Carlos Varela has maintained a critical stance towards the Cuban regime, advocating for a democratic and prosperous Cuba. Although he avoids getting involved in partisan politics, his songs tackle themes of freedom and social rights that make the government uncomfortable. Varela dreams of a country where Cubans can develop their talent with full freedom.
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