Manuel González Hernández, known as Manolín, is a Cuban singer and songwriter, a graduate in medicine, which is why El Tosco dubbed him the doctor of salsa. Manolín was born in Guantánamo, Cuba, on March 18, 1965.
Manolín is one of the most interesting and controversial figures in Cuban timba and a significant presence in the island's music scene during the 1990s. This medical student turned singer-songwriter had his first musical opportunity with the group NG La Banda, where he served as a backing vocalist and guest composer. Manolín never received formal training as a singer, but his stage presence and, notably, his songwriting skills set him apart as an inspired performer brimming with grace and charisma.
After his time with NG La Banda, he began his solo career and in 1993 released his first album, Una Aventura Loca, which made him well-known throughout Cuba. This was followed by Para mi gente (1995), which includes the single La bola, his most emblematic song for which he won the El Artista Cubano award in 1996, De buena fe (1996), and Jaque mate (1998).
By the late '90s, Manolín reached the top of the Havana hit parade. His band filled the nightclubs, and he provided original songs to groups like La Charanga Habanera, NG La Banda, and Bamboleo, achieving resounding success on stages around the world.
The first setbacks in Manolín's career arise when he calls on the Cuban community in Miami in his songs to "extend a hand." His lyrics promoting friendship between Cubans from the island and Cubans from Florida are frowned upon by the government and are quickly banned in Cuba. He then decides to travel to Miami, where he stays for a time, but not permanently. At one point, it was thought that he would be the bridge that united all Cubans around the world through music. Everyone is surprised when Manolín chooses to return to Havana after having loudly proclaimed his ties to the U.S. and the unity of all Cubans.
His second career in the Cuban capital is not what he expected, and he returns to Miami, where he also performs in Europe, particularly in Italy, where his music has always been well-received. Manolín then incorporated the master Tomasito Cruz, former conguero of Paulito FG, into his band, and the talented young pailero Angel "Pututi II" Arces has returned to his side after a several-year hiatus. The combination of these two percussionists along with the young phenomenon Reinier Guerra on drums and the unforgettable keyboardists Eduardo "Chaka" Nápoles and Luis Bu provided Manolín with what is possibly the hottest timbera essence in history.
He signed a contract with BMG Latino to record a pop music album.
Manolín is very active on social media, and his controversial statements on political issues and current Cuban cultural and political affairs are frequent.
