The Cuban singer Haila María Mompié dedicated some heartfelt farewell words to her great friend Ryū Murakami, the renowned Japanese writer and music producer who passed away on October 17 at the age of 74. Through her social media, the artist fondly recalled the moments they shared over the years and the deep friendship that united them due to their passion for Cuban music.
In an Instagram post, Haila shared a heartfelt message recalling the trips to Japan, the recordings, and the experiences they shared together.
"Dear Ryu, I don’t know how to say goodbye to someone who leaves so much love in my heart. You were a great man, a cherished friend, and a deep lover of Cuban culture. I hold onto every trip I made to Japan to see you, our recordings, and so many beautiful moments we shared. Our friendship was a gift that I will always carry with me," the singer wrote.
His words reflect the affection he felt for Murakami, who for decades helped bring Cuban music to Japanese stages and with whom he maintained a close professional and personal relationship.
One of the most heartfelt moments of her farewell came when Haila admitted that she planned to return to Japan next year, but this time she would no longer be able to reunite with her friend.
"It hurts me to know that next year, when I return to Japan, I will no longer be able to hug you. I will be left with that pending hug, but also with the gratitude of having had you in my life," he expressed.
Ryū Murakami was a key figure in promoting Cuban music in Japan. His connection with the island began in 1991, when he visited Cuba and was fascinated by its rhythms, especially timba.
During that encounter, he met José Luis Cortés, known as "El Tosco," the founder of NG La Banda, with whom he began a musical collaboration that led to several recordings, including "Murakami Mambo," a song dedicated to the Japanese writer.
His enthusiasm for the island's music led him to create the Murakami Label, affiliated with Sony Music, and to organize for years the concert series "Ryu's Cuban Night," which allowed the Japanese audience to enjoy artists such as Issac Delgado, Bamboleo, and Tania Pantoja.
Haila Mompié was also part of those musical projects. Between 2000 and 2002, she performed in Japan and participated in initiatives that connected her with the Japanese producer. In 2011, the label Murakami released the album TANIA vs HAILA, alongside Tania Pantoja, another chapter of an artistic collaboration that lasted for years.
Murakami passed away at his home on October 17, although the news of his death was made public on Thursday, the 23rd. His publisher and office reported his passing without specifying the causes and noted that the funeral was held privately, attended by his closest family members.
The passing of the writer also recalls his close relationship with El Tosco, who died in April 2022, and was one of the first figures to introduce him to the world of Cuban popular music.
Haila concluded her tribute with words full of affection, gratitude, and nostalgia for all the memories she will cherish of her friend.
"Rest in peace, my friend. May the light, music, and all the love you planted accompany you. Safe travels, Ryu. Farewell."
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