Related videos:
The leader Miguel Díaz-Canel lamented this Saturday the tragic death of the renowned Cuban musician Paulo Fernández Gallo, artistically known as Paulito FG, who died in a traffic accident on the Malecón in Havana.
"Painful goodbye to the beloved Paulito FG. Our heartfelt condolences to family, friends, and the people of #Cuba, who cherished him, along with other great artists, as one of their favorites. His creations and interpretations are an inseparable part of the Cuban musical heritage," said the leader through his account on X (Twitter).
Paulo FG, 63 years old, passed away this afternoon in a traffic accident at the intersection of 12 and Malecón, when his vehicle was struck by a tourist bus from the company Transtur that was traveling on the fast lane.
A doctor from the Calixto García Hospital, where he was transferred urgently, confirmed that the artist arrived in cardiac arrest, with resuscitation efforts proving unsuccessful.
The news was confirmed by Cuban television and caused a great sensation on social media.
The journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso shared on Facebook: "We regret to inform that this afternoon, the prominent Cuban musician Paulo Fernández Gallo, our Paulito FG, passed away due to a traffic accident. Our condolences to his family and friends."
The group Havana D’Primera also expressed its grief and highlighted the artist's significant contribution to Cuban music.
Born on January 11, 1962, Paulo FG was one of the most influential figures in dance music in Cuba over the last four decades, during which he was a part of the Cuban cultural system.
He participated in concerts and campaigns promoted by the government, including large events organized by UNEAC (Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba) and EGREM (Company of Recordings and Musical Editions).
However, unlike other Cuban musicians who have expressed openly political stances, Paulo FG did not stand out for controversial statements or confrontations with the system. His main focus was music, avoiding involvement in open political debates.
In recent years, amid the rise of social discontent and the growth of critical voices within the Cuban cultural scene, Paulo FG maintained a low profile on political issues and focused on his artistic career.
Frequently asked questions about the passing of Paulo FG and his legacy in Cuban music
How did the accident that caused Paulo FG's death happen?
Paulo FG passed away in a traffic accident at the intersection of 12 and Malecón in Havana, when his vehicle was hit by a tourist bus from the company Transtur. He was taken to Calixto García Hospital in cardiac arrest, but resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.
What was the Cuban government's reaction to the death of Paulo FG?
The ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed his condolences through his X account (formerly Twitter), mourning the passing of Paulo FG and highlighting his contribution to Cuban musical heritage. Díaz-Canel described Paulo FG as one of the favorite artists of the Cuban people.
What was Paulo FG's impact on Cuban music?
Paulo FG was one of the most influential figures in danceable popular music in Cuba over the last four decades. His ability to fuse salsa with other genres earned him national and international recognition. Songs like "El bueno soy yo" and "Te deseo suerte" are examples of his musical legacy.
What do other artists say about Paulo FG's death?
Several Cuban artists expressed their condolences and highlighted the impact of Paulo FG on their lives and careers. Alexander Abreu, leader of Havana D’ Primera, described him as the "driving force" of his life, while others like Dale Pututi and Buena Fe also shared heartfelt messages on social media.
Filed under: