The world of Cuban music is in mourning following the sudden death of salsa musician Paulo FG on March 1, 2025, in a tragic traffic accident on the Malecón in Havana.
The news shocked her followers both inside and outside of Cuba, generating a wave of condolence messages from artists and fans. However, her passing has also revived one of the biggest controversies of her career: Her statements in 2008 about Fidel Castro.
The 2008 interview and its impact on the Cuban exile community
In 2008, during an interview on the program "Entre Nos," hosted by Patricia Arbulú on Miami's GenTV channel, Paulo FG sparked controversy by stating that he "has always believed in the Commander" and that he has been able to develop his music career in Cuba because: "Fidel has not deceived me."
His words provoked a strong reaction in the Cuban exile community, which considered his statements an affront to those who have suffered the consequences of the Castro regime.
Paulo FG tried to stay out of the political debate, arguing that his only interest was music, but the discontent caused by his words left a mark and sparked an intense discussion about the presence of Cuban artists aligned with the official line of the regime in Miami.
The declaration of persona non grata in 2020
Twelve years after his words of admiration for Fidel Castro, in 2020, Paulo FG was declared a persona non grata in Miami by mayor Francis Suárez, who stated that “artists who support the Cuban regime are not welcome in the city.”
The decision was driven by a campaign from the Cuban influencer Alex Otaola, who urged local authorities to ban the presence of musicians linked to the Cuban government.
At that moment, Paulo FG was in the United States due to the death of his brother Lorenzo Alejandro Fernández Gallo, but he refrained from commenting on the declaration of persona non grata. He returned to the island, and his focus was always on continuing his artistic career, despite the rejection from some segments of the Cuban exile community.
A musical legacy that transcends controversy
Despite the controversies surrounding his career due to his admiration for Fidel Castro, his death has brought together numerous Cuban artists in messages of condolence.
Musicians Inside and Outside of Cuba have expressed their sadness at the news of the singer and orchestra director's passing, highlighting his charisma, talent, and generosity. "Above all, Paulo was a great human being," declared a close friend of the singer.
Social media has been flooded with tributes, remembering his musical legacy and the impact he had on Danceable Popular Music in Cuba. His loss leaves a void in the music scene, and despite political differences, his talent and contribution to Cuban culture are undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Paulo FG and His Musical Legacy
How did Paulo FG die?
Paulo FG passed away in a tragic traffic accident on the Malecón in Havana on March 1, 2025, when his vehicle was struck by a tourist bus. The accident occurred at the intersection of 12 and Malecón, and although he was taken to Calixto García Hospital, he arrived in cardiac arrest and could not be revived.
Why was Paulo FG declared persona non grata in Miami?
In 2020, Paulo FG was declared persona non grata in Miami for his statements of admiration towards Fidel Castro in 2008. Mayor Francis Suárez stated that “artists who defend the Cuban regime are not welcome in the city”, a position supported by a campaign from Cuban influencer Alex Otaola.
What was the impact of Paulo FG on Cuban music?
Paulo FG fue una figura influyente en la música popular bailable en Cuba durante más de tres décadas. Their talent and charisma contributed to their recognition as one of the most representative figures of the genre. Participó en agrupaciones como Adalberto Álvarez y su Son, Opus 13, y Dan Den, antes de fundar su propia banda, La Élite, en 1992. Su música trascendió fronteras, llevando su estilo a más de 20 países.
What reactions did Paulo FG's death provoke among Cuban artists?
The death of Paulo FG generated a wave of messages of condolence and recognition from Cuban artists both on and off the island. Musicians such as Alexander Abreu, Osmani García, and the duo Buena Fe highlighted his legacy, charisma, and the influence he had on their careers. Social media was flooded with tributes, remembering his impact on Cuban music.
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