The Cuban singer-songwriter William Vivanco announced that he has decided to settle with his family in Spain, where he will continue his artistic career.
In an interview with the independent portal Diario de Cuba, Vivanco revealed that he has been in Madrid for about two months and does not intend to return to the Island for the time being.
"I was able to leave Cuba with my wife and my child, and now we are here. They are not going to return; I will go back to Cuba when I can, when I have time," he expressed.
The troubadour thanked Madrid for welcoming him and revealed that he has a lot of work, unlike in Cuba, where "there is no future," as all his audience, the generations who enjoy his music, have moved to Europe or the United States.
"I want to showcase my art, share with the artists here, and in Cuba, I believe I have done everything I needed to do during this first phase of my life, which has lasted almost 50 years (I will be turning 50). For the next 50, I have something else in mind," he emphasized.
Born in Santiago de Cuba, William Vivanco gained popularity with his song "Cimarrón" and its distinctive and catchy refrain, "Lo tengo to' pensa'o."
He is one of the most multifaceted Cuban troubadours with albums such as "Lo tengo to pensao", "La Isla Milagrosa", "El Mundo Está Cambia'o" and "Mejorana".
In August 2023, the musician Robertico Carcassés, director of the group Interactivo -of which Vivanco was a part in Cuba-, decided to settle in Spain.
"What happens in Cuba affects me just like any other Cuban. Cuba is, as we would say, on fire. It has been on fire for many years. I'm going to take a break from the fire all the time," he stated.
Robertico denounced the regime's censorship and the degradation of Cuba's cultural environment due to the massive exodus of talented artists.
Around that time, he called for "the first Interactive concert in the diaspora" in Madrid, featuring Cuban artists residing outside the country, primarily in Spain, who would join him on stage.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Emigration of Cuban Artists and the Situation in Cuba
Why did William Vivanco decide to emigrate to Spain?
William Vivanco decided to emigrate to Spain because he believes there is "no future" for his artistic career in Cuba. The singer-songwriter mentioned that many of the generations that enjoyed his music have emigrated to Europe or the United States, which has led him to seek new opportunities abroad.
What impact does the emigration of artists have on Cuban culture?
The emigration of artists like William Vivanco, Maikel Amelia, and others represents a significant loss for Cuban culture. The departure of these talents weakens cultural production on the island and reflects the lack of opportunities and discontent with the current regime, driving many to seek a better future abroad.
How has the Cuban regime affected the decision of its citizens to emigrate?
The Cuban regime has significantly influenced the decision of many citizens to emigrate due to the lack of freedoms, political repression, and the precarious economic situation. Many Cubans do not see a future on the island and seek better opportunities and quality of life in other countries.
What challenges do Cubans face when emigrating to other countries?
Cubans who emigrate face challenges such as adapting to new cultures, finding employment, and overcoming the lack of initial support. Despite these difficulties, many value the opportunities and stability they find outside of Cuba, often having to learn new skills and confront prejudice as emigrants.
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