The sonero Cándido Fabré took advantage of a performance at a nightclub in Cuba to share a message with his audience directed at the influencer Alexander Otaola.
The video was published on the Instagram profile Cubanos por el Mundo. It does not specify the date or location of Fabré's statements. However, it ironically warns that the improviser is an "eternal lover and admirer of Otaola".
"Social media is controversial, but I like it. Otaola... I love that Otaola talks about me. I know he likes me and I know he recognizes me. The thing is, he has to work, he has to go against the current to earn money," said the popular musician.
The Cuban audience was excited, and some voices shouted insults at the influencer. So far, Otaola has not given any significance to this unexpected "confession of affection," or attempt at provocation.
Fabré also spoke about the importance of social media for artists. He emphasized that, thanks to controversies and the impact of certain posts, musicians can maintain their popularity among Cubans even when state media remove them from their programming schedules.
"Thanks to social media, because it keeps us connected to many who are not favored by the radio, newspapers, or television. It helps people learn about us," he said.
In 2023, Fabré dedicated a chorus to Otaola at a popular festival in Camagüey. On that occasion, the influencer did respond, ironically stating that he felt "grateful for the tribute".
"The idea that Cándido Fabré has had is to dedicate a choir to me in the streets of my hometown Camagüey. For me, this is truly an honor. This is a sublime moment for me; I thought that no one in Camagüey knew who I was, but I realize that if Fabré created this choir, and the audience also danced, it means that the people in Cuba do know who I am," said Otaola.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Controversy between Cándido Fabré and Alexander Otaola
What message did Cándido Fabré send to Alexander Otaola?
Cándido Fabré took advantage of an artistic performance in Cuba to send a message to Alexander Otaola, stating that he likes Otaola talking about him on his shows. Fabré expressed that, although Otaola has to go against the grain to make money, he feels that the influencer recognizes him and appreciates it.
Why does Cándido Fabré value social media for Cuban artists?
Cándido Fabré emphasized the importance of social media for Cuban artists, as these platforms allow musicians to stay connected with their audience and continue to be recognized, even when the official media in Cuba remove them from their programs.
How has Alexander Otaola reacted to the mentions of Cándido Fabré?
So far, Alexander Otaola has not publicly acknowledged Cándido Fabré's message. However, on a previous occasion, when Fabré dedicated a chorus to him in Camagüey, Otaola ironically responded that he felt "grateful for the tribute."
What impact do controversies on social media have for Cuban artists?
Social media controversies have a significant impact on Cuban artists, as they can increase their visibility and maintain their relevance to an audience that otherwise might not have access to their work due to the restrictions of official media in Cuba.
Filed under:
