Manolín, the doctor of Salsa

Manuel González Hernández, known as Manolín, is a Cuban singer and composer, graduated in medicine, which is why El Tosco nicknamed him the doctor of salsa. Manolín was born in Guantánamo, Cuba, on March 18, 1965.

Manolín is one of the most fascinating and controversial figures in Cuban timba and a significant phenomenon in the island's music scene during the 1990s. This medical student turned singer-songwriter had his first musical opportunity in the neighborhood of 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 especially his songwriting skills set him apart as an inspired performer full of grace and charisma.

After leaving NG, the band started their solo career and in 1993 released their first album, Una Aventura Loca, which brought them recognition across Cuba. This was followed by Para mi gente (1995), which included the single La bola, their most emblematic track that earned them the El Artista Cubano award in 1996, as well as De buena fe (1996) and Jaque mate (1998).

By the late 90s, Manolín reached the pinnacle of the Havana hit parade. His band filled nightclubs, and he provided original songs to groups like La Charanga Habanera, NG La Banda, and Bamboleo, achieving remarkable success on stages around the world.

The first setbacks in Manolín's career arise when he calls on the Cuban community in Miami to "lend a hand" in his songs. His lyrics advocating for friendship between Cubans from the island and those from Florida are viewed unfavorably by the government and are quickly banned in Cuba. He then decides to travel to Miami and stays there for a while, but not permanently. At one point, he was thought to be the bridge that would unite all Cubans worldwide through music. Everyone is surprised when Manolín chooses to return to Havana after openly declaring his ties to the U.S. and the unity of all Cubans.

His second career in the Cuban capital did not meet his expectations, so he returned to Miami, where he also performs in Europe, particularly in Italy, where his music has always been well-received. Manolín then brought on board Maestro Tomasito Cruz, a former conguero for Paulito FG, and the talented young timbalero Angel "Pututi II" Arces has rejoined him after several years away. 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, has given Manolín what is possibly the hottest timbera sound 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 regarding political and cultural issues in Cuba are frequent.