The Cuban reggaeton artist El Uniko has once again spoken out against Alexander Delgado, a member of Gente de Zona, for what he considers an attempt to appropriate the genre, one of the most popular urban styles among young Cubans.
In a video shared on his social media, El Uniko openly questioned Delgado's recent foray into the genre after collaborating with artists like Chocolate MC in his latest music productions.
“You're not that important within the movement because you don't deserve it. We don't have a personal conflict, unless it's El Monarca who took it personally and blocked me. But that's the reality,” stated El Uniko, visibly upset.
According to the urban artist, during the years when the group barely generated income, figures like Alexander Delgado showed no interest in supporting the movement.
“All the time we were making this music, when it wasn’t bringing in a dime and they were already making money, we sought support from him, and they never wanted to help us. And now you want to come at the last minute when we are the movement that is leading… and you want to tell the world that you’re part of it? No, you are not part of it,” he stated.
The controversy between emerging artists and established names like Gente de Zona is not new. On June 20, El Uniko had already criticized Dale Pututi and Alexander Delgado himself for their recent association with the genre. On that occasion, he also questioned attempts to erase the contributions of the movement's pioneers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Controversy Between El Uniko and Alexander Delgado Regarding the Genre of Distribution
Why does El Uniko criticize Alexander Delgado and Gente de Zona?
El Uniko criticizes Alexander Delgado and Gente de Zona for attempting to "take over" the reparto genre, stating that they do not authentically represent the movement that originated in the Cuban neighborhoods. According to El Uniko, while reparto was not generating income, figures like Delgado showed no interest in supporting it, but now seek to profit from the success of the genre.
What is gender distribution and why is it important?
The reparto genre is an urban musical movement that originated in the neighborhoods of Cuba, characterized by catchy rhythms and straightforward lyrics. It has gained popularity, especially among young people, and is attaining international recognition. This genre is significant because it represents an authentic voice of the streets and Cuban reality, and its international acknowledgment, such as that from Billboard Latin, validates its cultural impact.
How has Alexander Delgado reacted to the criticisms of cultural appropriation?
Alexander Delgado has defended his foray into the reparto genre, arguing that he seeks to attract an international audience to this music and emphasizes his connection to Cuban music despite his international success. Delgado insists that his intention is to celebrate reparto and not to erase the contributions of its pioneers, calling for unity among Cuban artists.
What is El Uniko's stance on the political situation in Cuba?
El Uniko has been critical of the Cuban government and has defended the freedoms of the Cuban people at key moments, such as on July 11th. However, he has expressed that his main interest is his own freedom and well-being, emphasizing that he will stand with the people if they decide to protest, but he will not do for others what they do not do for themselves.
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