The Cuban singer Mirtha Medina reacted with deep sorrow to the death of musician Alfredo Rodríguez, with whom she shared one of the most successful periods of Cuban ballad in the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s.
In statements to Martí Noticias, Medina admitted that the news took her completely by surprise.
"I am devastated because, on top of that, I didn't even know he was sick. This news has left me in shock, truly impacted," she expressed.
Mirtha recalled Alfredo not only as a colleague but also as a close friend and an exceptional artistic partner.
"He has always been a great friend, an incredible companion. We worked together for many years, and he has always been a wonderful person, very talented and very supportive. I have never thought differently of him; on the contrary," he assured.
Both artists were central figures in Cuban song and formed one of the most beloved duos among the public. Mirtha emphasized that their professional relationship was always impeccable and based on mutual respect.
"We have worked in Cuba and here, even in Miami. We did a show featuring the songs that we made very famous in Cuba. They were songs that resonated extraordinarily well," he recalled.
Among those topics, Mirta particularly highlighted one that left a mark on an entire generation: "Saying 'It's always the same' was, I don’t know... saying it in Cuba was something very significant."
The song became a必reference point in Cuban romantic music and solidified the popularity of both.
The artist recalled another song composed by Vicente Rojas, referring to "Es que tengo otro amor," which she and Alfredo performed together and that was hugely well-received. "The work was always impeccable from both of us," she emphasized.
Mirtha confessed to feeling proud of having shared the stage with Alfredo Rodríguez.
"I feel very proud to have worked with him. I am very sad, I am still… I still can't believe it, honestly," she stated.
In a more intimate tone, he also spoke of the faith they shared. "I know that at this moment he is in heaven, he was very religious, he believed in God, just as I do. And amen for him," he concluded.
On Thursday, the family of Alfredo Rodríguez announced his passing at the age of 74 in the United States, where he had lived for many years.
The news sparked an avalanche of messages of condolences among musicians, fans, and figures of Cuban culture.
Rodríguez was one of the most respected voices in ballad music and left a deep mark both for his talent and for his personal integrity.
His legacy is marked, among other milestones, by his historic collaboration with Mirta Medina, a duo that defined an era of romantic music in Cuba.
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