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With a voice occasionally choked with emotion, Alfredito Rodríguez recalled the day he closed the door of his apartment in Havana and left Cuba. That moment, he confessed, still lingers with him like a fresh wound.
The beloved musician and host passed away this Thursday, at the age of 74, leaving a deep void in Cuban culture and in the hearts of several generations who grew up with his voice, humor, and kindness.
"I wouldn't wish it on anyone. I'm still crying because I was leaving the love of so many people," said Alfredito Rodríguez while recalling his departure from Cuba, during an interview given four years ago on the show La Casa de Maka, a talk and open conversation program that brings together figures from Cuban art and culture in Miami.
With tears in his eyes, the beloved artist shared that, before departing, he received a gift that he would cherish for the rest of his life: an image of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, given to him by Hortensia, the wife of the broadcaster Manuel Ortega.
“She told me that no one would take care of her like I would. The day I left Cuba, I went with a backpack and the Virgin tucked inside. She is still in my house and will be there as long as I live. That was my only luggage,” she confessed.
The interpreter explained that his departure was not an easy decision, but it was necessary.
"I was leaving my hometown, the people who had helped me in this humble journey. I have done my part, what I could, what I knew, but my children needed to soar. If they shine and have wings, I am also a bird that flies," she expressed.
He also recalled how his son, the talented musician Alfredo Rodríguez Jr, was prevented from returning to Cuba to participate in International Jazz Day at the invitation of Quincy Jones.
"They denied him entry. Nobody can understand that. A young man who just wants his music to take flight, who loves Cuba and has harmed no one. What madness!" he lamented.
Alfredito recounted that he even left with his dog Lucas, leaving behind his life and career in Havana.
"We went to Mexico, and when my children decided to keep flying, I did as well. I don't regret it. If they are well, I am well," she stated.
Upon arriving in Miami, he acknowledged that the first years were tough.
"Coming is tough. You come playing artistically all by yourself with the New York Yankees. But as long as there’s one person listening, the artist is there. There are no supporting roles. There’s love, passion, respect for whoever is listening, whether it’s one or ten thousand," he said with his usual humility, the same humility that has always been with him.
During the conversation, the artist also reflected on the affection of the Cuban audience, both on the island and abroad.
"They are angels who come to sing to you and support you. They tell me, 'I fell in love with one of your songs,' or 'my son is named after you.' That is worth more than anything," he commented, moved.
"That audience is not your rival; they are your friends. You must cherish them because they came to see you. Sometimes they put on their best shirt to listen to you. It's important to always stay grounded. As Martí said, all the glory of the world fits in a grain of corn," he expressed wisely.
Proud of his children and grateful for life, Alfredito confessed that his family has always been his greatest strength.
"For me, family is the most sacred thing. My children are my reason for living. I talk to them ten times a day. My son is an extraordinary musician, and Daniel is my sweetheart, kind and good. If they fly, I fly with them," she affirmed.
More than a musician, Alfredito Rodríguez was a symbol of sensitivity, decency, and love for his people.
His time at La Casa de Maka left one of the most heartfelt testimonies of an artist who, beyond his talent, was a man deeply loved by his people.
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