Mourning in Cuban music: Three artists pass away in less than a month

These losses add to those of other Cuban artists who passed away last year.

Eduardo Sosa (i), Paulo FG (c), and Edesio Alejandro (d)Photo © Social media collage

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The Cuban music scene is undergoing a deep mourning period following the passing of three prominent artists in less than a month, leaving a void in the island's culture and among their followers.

The first to pass away was Cuban troubadour Eduardo Sosa, who died on February 12 at the age of 54, due to a hemorrhagic stroke he suffered on February 3, according to the Cuban Institute of Music (ICM).

Sosa underwent a surgical procedure that, according to the doctors, "achieved its objective", but it did not fully resolve the issue. He was admitted to the Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto Teaching General Hospital in Guantánamo province.

In the days that followed, his condition worsened due to respiratory complications and acute renal failure, which ultimately led to his passing.

Known for his unmistakable voice and his commitment to traditional Cuban music and the country's politics, Sosa left a legacy in the landscape of trova and singer-songwriter music on the island.

Days later, the artistic community suffered another blow with the tragic death of Paulo FG, an iconic Cuban salsa musician, in a traffic accident on March 1.

According to reports, the artist died immediately after colliding with a Transtur bus on the Malecón in Havana.

Known as "The Salsa Stifler", Paulo FG made a mark with his style and charisma, leaving a lasting impact on dance music in Cuba and Latin America.

Finally, the news of the passing of the renowned musician and composer Edesio Alejandro shocked lovers of Cuban music.

The artist passed away in Madrid on March 5 at the age of 66, after several years battling cancer.

With a prolific career and a body of work that transcended genres and borders, Edesio Alejandro established himself as one of the most innovative figures in Cuban music and cinema.

Social media has been flooded with condolence messages from fans, musicians, and cultural figures, who have remembered the invaluable contribution of these artists to the musical identity of the island.

Among them, Alexander Abreu, director of Havana D’ Primera, expressed: "With deep sorrow, we bid farewell today to another great one. Fly high, brother Edesio. Cuban music remains in mourning."

On her part, the singer Laritza Bacallao also shared some heartfelt words: "We have yet to recover, and another heavy blow comes. Thank you, maestro, for the music, teachings, advice, and for being such a wonderful human being to all of us. A big hug to my dear @cristianalejandromusic, to @idolka1968, and all his family and friends. Fly high, dear @edesio_alejandro_oficial."

Facebook screenshot/Laritza Bacallao

These losses add to those of other Cuban artists who passed away last year, including José Manuel Carbajal, artistically known as El Taiger, who died in October 2024.

His death shocked the Cuban urban scene, as he was considered a reference point for reggaeton on the island. His style and contributions to the genre made him one of the most influential figures of his generation.

With these losses, Cuban music dresses in mourning, but its legacy will continue to resonate in the notes and melodies they left as an inheritance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mourning in Cuban Music

Who are the recently deceased Cuban artists?

In less than a month, Cuban music has lost three prominent artists: Eduardo Sosa, a troubadour who passed away on February 12 due to a stroke, Paulo FG, an iconic salsa singer who died in a traffic accident on March 1, and Edesio Alejandro, a musician and composer who passed away on March 5 after battling cancer.

What was the cause of Eduardo Sosa's death?

Eduardo Sosa passed away due to a hemorrhagic stroke. Although he received treatment and underwent surgery, his condition was complicated by respiratory issues and renal failure, which ultimately led to his death.

What legacy does Paulo FG leave in Cuban music?

Paulo FG, known as "The Salsa Suffocator", left an indelible mark on Cuban and Latin American dance music. His charisma and unique style made his music a reference point in salsa, and his hits became a part of the Cuban musical heritage.

How did Edesio Alejandro's death impact the artistic community?

The death of Edesio Alejandro deeply shocked his colleagues and followers, who highlighted his innovation and contributions to Cuban music and cinema. His work transcended genres and borders, establishing him as an innovative and beloved figure in Cuban culture.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.