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The Cuban broadcaster, producer, writer, and radio director Jaime Almirall-Suárez, creator of the popular program Esto NO tiene nombre, passed away in the United States, as confirmed on Monday by colleagues and friends on social media.
Carlo Figueroa, president of UNEAC in Sancti Spíritus, described him as a “rooted broadcaster, prolific, quintessentially Cuban, who filled the soundtrack of several generations of Cubans.” He recalled that, even from a distance, he maintained a constant connection with his friends and admirers, sharing through Messenger, WhatsApp, or email “monumental creations” from his later years. “He placed his name long ago on the list of illustrious masters,” he added.
The writer and television program director Yin Pedraza Ginori described him as one of the creators who should be mentioned "when the true history of Cuban radio is written, without censorship," and lamented that the "stifling circumstances" on the island forced him to emigrate, depriving listeners of programs "where talent, originality, and good taste prevailed."
The Cuban writer, screenwriter, and comedian Ramón Larrea reminisced about a friendship that spanned decades and shared anecdotes, such as the 1989 Caracol award, when Almirall-Suárez joked about his outfit and presented him with the tape from that day's show.
Almirall-Suárez worked in Cuban radio for 32 years, 11 of which were at the station Radio Progreso, where he founded and hosted Esto NO tiene nombre. His career was recognized with multiple national awards and honors from UNEAC, including the Grand National Prize in 1992 and 1993, as well as the Distinction for Cuban Culture, as reported by the specialized blog Haciendo Radio,
Among his award-winning works are productions dedicated to Brindis de Salas, Bola de Nieve, and The Beatles, as well as research on Cuban son, zarzuela, and Mozart. He graduated with a degree in advanced music studies from the Ignacio Cervantes Professional Development Institute, and his training in radio was self-taught, with mastery of modern production techniques.
He had been residing in Miami since 1993, after a distinguished career in Cuban radio. Friends and colleagues have mourned his passing and highlighted the professional and human legacy he leaves for Cuban culture.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Legacy of Jaime Almirall-Suárez and the Situation of Cuban Radio
Who was Jaime Almirall-Suárez and what was his contribution to Cuban radio?
Jaime Almirall-Suárez was a prominent broadcaster, producer, writer, and radio director from Cuba, known for his program "Esto NO tiene nombre". His career in Cuban radio spanned over three decades, and he was recognized with various national awards. His legacy includes productions about iconic figures like Brindis de Salas and The Beatles, as well as research on Cuban son and Mozart. Despite his exile, he maintained a connection with his audience and colleagues in Cuba.
Why did Jaime Almirall-Suárez have to emigrate from Cuba?
Jaime Almirall-Suárez emigrated from Cuba due to the "suffocating circumstances" of the regime, which limited his ability to create innovative and tasteful radio programs. His departure from the island deprived Cuban listeners of his talent and originality. This case reflects a common pattern among Cuban artists who seek freedom to express themselves outside of government control.
What is the impact of the political situation on Cuban radio and culture?
The political situation in Cuba has had a negative impact on the radio and culture of the country, forcing many talents to emigrate in search of creative freedom. This has resulted in a significant loss of diversity and innovation in Cuban media, with the regime prioritizing ideological control over cultural and artistic development.
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