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The death of the salsa artist Paulo FG, in a traffic accident on the Malecón in Havana on March 1st, has shocked the community of Cuban music lovers and its artists.
The news has sparked a wave of reactions from Cuban musicians, who have expressed their sorrow as well as their admiration for the legacy of the "Sofocador de la Salsa."
Paulo Alfonso Fernández Gallo was born on January 11, 1962, and was one of the most representative voices of popular dance music in Cuba. From his beginnings in groups such as Adalberto Álvarez y su Son, Opus 13, and Dan Den, to the creation of his own band, La Élite, in 1992, his charisma and dedication on stage made him a prominent figure in Cuban music.
Reactions from Cuban musicians
Cuban musicians have come together in numerous messages of condolence following Paulito's death. Among the first to express their sorrow during this time were Alexander Abreu, Lenier Mesa, Diván, El Yonki, Osmani García, Dale Pututi, the duo Buena Fe, El Boni, El Kamel, Cándido Fabré, and Leoni Torres.
One of the most touching messages came from the singer Alain Daniel, who revealed the strong friendship he had with the salsa artist.
"I received news from Havana that I never wanted to hear: Paulo has passed away. An extraordinary artist, an irreplaceable talent, someone who marked my life in a way I will never be able to forget. (...) The hug that was left pending hurts me greatly," he expressed.
The singer and songwriter Randy Malcom expressed his disbelief at the death of Paulito FG: "I don’t know how to process this news. It hurts me too much. Rest in peace."
The iconic orchestra Los Van Van also bid farewell to the salsa singer: "With deep sorrow we say goodbye to our brother Paulo FG, the 'Sofocador' of Cuban music. How difficult it is when life takes away such a great artist, but his voice, his rhythm, and his legacy will forever remain in the history of our music."
Emilio Frías, the director of the orchestra El Niño y La Verdad, stated: "Of the greatest singers in Cuban music, the man who revolutionized and changed the game back in the 90s. Rest in peace, the suffocator of Havana. Timba is in mourning."
Aymee Nuviola recalled how Paulo FG helped her during a difficult time in her career: "You knocked on my door (...) and said: 'I'M COMING TO GET YOU TO OPEN MY CONCERTS WITH YOUR GROUP'. I never expected that."
She added that Paulo FG made that decision because she had supported him in the past when no one else did. "I am very sad about your sudden departure. I will be forever grateful for you, for your kindness, and for your support throughout my life. Rest in peace, Paulito FG," said Nuviola.
The musician Manolín, "El Médico de la Salsa", also shared some heartfelt words: "One of the greatest performers of our music has passed away, Paulo FG, the Sofocador of Havana. With enviable vocal abilities, he had all of Cuba and parts of the world dancing to his delightful timba."
The singer Norlam also expressed his sorrow: "What such sad news, my brother. Peace and light to you. I will always remember you as I met you, smiling and as the many pieces of advice you gave me. And how you helped and supported me when many turned their backs on me. You left without saying goodbye, my brother."
"Rest in peace, RockStar, as I always called you when we saw each other and you called me that. This news has left me very sad; Cuba will feel this deeply, we have lost one of the greatest of all time," said the musician David Blanco.
"I still can't believe it, I keep telling myself it's not true. All the light for you, my dear Paulo FG. Safe travels, friend and mentor... I prefer to remember you with your wonderful music and your beautiful smile..." expressed Laritza Bacallao.
Haila María Mompié also expressed her sorrow over the death of Paulito FG: "My heart is shattered into a thousand pieces. Safe travels to eternity, my beloved brother."
Other artists who also left farewell messages after the death of Paulito FG were actresses Yuliet Cruz and Eileen Acosta León, who expressed: "Life gave me the opportunity to know you and work with you, and I will always be grateful for that."
An indelible legacy
Paulo FG was not only an exceptional singer but also an innovator who knew how to blend salsa with other genres such as rock, ballad, and jazz.
His influence transcended borders, bringing his music to over 20 countries and prompting major salsa stars to cover his songs. Tracks like "El bueno soy yo," "Te deseo suerte," "Con la conciencia tranquila," and "Ilusión" shaped generations and solidified his legacy.
His unexpected departure has left a void in Cuban music, but his music will remain. The voice of the "Sofocador de la Salsa" will continue to resonate in the hearts of his followers and will especially continue to be danced to in Cuba and around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Death of Paulo FG and His Legacy in Cuban Music
How did Paulo FG die?
Paulo FG passed away in a traffic accident on the Malecón in Havana on March 1, 2025. His vehicle was struck by a tour bus, resulting in a fatal crash that shocked the Cuban music community.
What was the reaction of other Cuban musicians to the death of Paulo FG?
The Cuban music community expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Paulo FG. Artists like Alain Daniel, Randy Malcom, and Los Van Van shared heartfelt messages remembering the legacy and influence of the "Sofocador de la Salsa" in Cuban music. Many highlighted his talent and the impact he had on their personal careers and in the salsa genre.
What legacy does Paulo FG leave in Cuban music?
Paulo FG left an indelible legacy in Cuban music, being an innovator who skillfully blended salsa with genres like rock, ballad, and jazz. His music transcended borders, taking it to more than 20 countries and leaving an imprint on generations of artists. Songs such as "El bueno soy yo" and "Con la conciencia tranquila" became classics.
What did the Cuban government say about Paulo FG's passing?
The leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed his condolences following the death of Paulo FG, stating that his creations are part of Cuba's musical heritage. However, the government's reaction was merely protocolary and lacked a profound acknowledgment of the artist's cultural impact.
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