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With Israel Rojas, leader of the duo Buena Fe, the saying holds true that those who get used to crying forget how to laugh: if a few months ago the artist caused a stir by admitting he has lost followers in Cuba, he now returns to the fray by engaging in the controversy surrounding the figure of El Bebeshito.
Now Rojas complains that, in today’s music, what is considered "correct" is for the artist to proclaim themselves as the best in the world and for their representatives to seek out a “scandalous controversy” to stay in the spotlight, regardless of whether that undermines artistic quality.
“Not even when we have been 'close' would it occur to me to say or allow someone to say that we are better than any other contemporary artist or those from the past,” he wrote on Facebook.
The musician stated that he has always believed that the evaluation of a work should come from "external specialized voices," and that criticism, even negative, serves as a stimulus to progress and refine the work. However, if that were the case, he would be inundated with awards, just as he increasingly receives voices condemning his lyrics.
"I prefer to continue learning about the role of art, creative techniques, the society I am committed to, contemporary psychology, and sociology," he stated.
His message does not directly mention El Bebeshito, but it arrives amid a media storm.
The controversy began when producer Roberto Ferrante described the reggaeton artist as a "great Cuban artist" and placed him at a level that, for some, bordered on comparison with music legends.
Among the most recent responses was that of Cándido Fabré, another artist from the Cuban officialdom, who acknowledged the success of the reggaeton artist but rejected any attempts to compare him or place him above figures like Benny Moré, Celia Cruz, or Ismael Rivera.
Fabré called for "respect for the greats" and emphasized that these artists "are not trends, they are eternal like the Beatles."
The phrase sparked a flurry of comments, among supporters and critics, who quickly recalled historical figures such as Moré, Cruz, Rivera, and other icons of Latin music.
In recent days, several articles and analyses have addressed Ferrante's career, the rising journey of El Bebeshito, and the controversy surrounding how achievements in contemporary music are measured against the indelible impact of the greats.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Controversy Involving Israel Rojas and El Bebeshito
What did Israel Rojas think about the self-proclamation of artists as the best?
Israel Rojas, leader of the duo Buena Fe, criticized the trend of some artists to self-proclaim as the best in the world. He argues that the assessment of a work should come from specialized voices outside of the artists themselves. He stated that, although Buena Fe has been "popular," he would never consider saying they are better than other contemporary or past artists.
Why was there controversy surrounding El Bebeshito?
The controversy erupted when producer Roberto Ferrante referred to El Bebeshito as "the greatest Cuban artist of all time," even surpassing legends like Benny Moré and Celia Cruz. This statement sparked a wave of criticism and debates regarding the comparison with historical figures of Cuban music.
What was the reaction of other artists to the statements about El Bebeshito?
Cándido Fabré, an artist from the Cuban establishment, acknowledged the success of El Bebeshito but categorically rejected comparisons to legends like Benny Moré, Celia Cruz, and Ismael Rivera. Fabré emphasized that these artists are "eternal" and should not be compared to fleeting trends.
How has El Bebeshito responded to the controversy?
El Bebeshito has chosen public silence in response to the controversy generated by Ferrante's statements. His only response was to give a "like" to Ferrante's post on Instagram, which was interpreted as a gesture of support.
How is the greatness of an artist measured in the current Cuban context?
The greatness of an artist in the current Cuban context is intensely debated. It is believed that it should be measured by cultural impact, career trajectory, and legacy, beyond temporary commercial successes. The comparison of El Bebeshito with legends like Celia Cruz and Benny Moré has reopened this debate, highlighting the importance of influence and international recognition.
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