The official singer-songwriter Raúl Torres released a new song on August 13 dedicated to Fidel Castro, on the occasion of the 99th anniversary of the birth of the Cuban dictator.
The song, titled “I Am for Fidel”, is part of the regime's campaign to revitalize the figure of the deceased ruler. It is a nostalgic chant, in an elegiac tone, that mourns the absence of the tyrant.
Torres resumes the reverent style that has characterized other works of his, such as "Riding with Fidel" or "The Return of the Friend," dedicated to Hugo Chávez.
“Loyalty will remain with us forever, how we miss you, dad,” sings Raúl Torres in one of the verses of his new song. The debut is not coming through the radio or national television, but was shared on the musician's own social media.
It was accompanied by a popular Cuban singer, Vania Borges. The chorus evokes the figure of Fidel Castro as a symbol of guidance and hope, while also emphasizing a supposed sense of collective loss following his death.
In parallel with the launch, Torres posted a message complaining about Facebook's algorithm, claiming that the social network limits the reach of his content.
The troubadour, whose song "Homeland or Death for Life" was deemed by Google as the worst song of 2021, continually reaffirms himself as a singer of the regime, even amidst a severe crisis that has eroded the ideological foundations of the so-called "continuity" of communism in Cuba.
Frequently asked questions about the new song by Raúl Torres dedicated to Fidel Castro
What is the purpose of the new song by Raúl Torres titled "Soy por Fidel"?
The song "I Am for Fidel" by Raúl Torres seeks to revitalize the figure of Fidel Castro ahead of his centenary in 2026. It is part of a campaign by the Cuban regime to exalt the image of the former leader, using it as a symbol of guidance, hope, and reconciliation, despite the ideological crisis the country is experiencing.
How has Raúl Torres' music been received in the current Cuban context?
The music of Raúl Torres has been the subject of controversy due to his alignment with the Cuban government. His compositions have been used as political propaganda, which has garnered him both followers and critics. His work has been overlooked in cultural institutions such as the Museum of Cuban Music, leading the artist to publicly express his discontent.
What has motivated Raúl Torres to continue composing songs for political figures?
Raúl Torres has established himself as a troubadour aligned with the Cuban regime, using his music to glorify leftist political figures in Latin America. His motivation appears to be linked to his loyalty to the authorities, which has allowed him to remain a tool of the government for political propaganda, despite the criticism and ridicule he has faced.
What impact has the song "Soy por Fidel" had on the public perception of Raúl Torres?
The song "Soy por Fidel" reinforces Raúl Torres's image as an officialist singer. Although he has maintained his relevance within state propaganda, his insistence on glorifying figures like Fidel Castro in the context of economic and social crisis has generated backlash among segments of the population who view these actions as an attempt at political manipulation.
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