The music scene in Cuba certainly captures the Caribbean island’s fusion of cultures. Anyone taking a stroll around the capital city of Havana will hear the music coming from bars and clubs or street performers enchanting passers-by with their instruments. From street music to world-renowned bars and nightclubs, here’s everything you need to know about Cuba’s exciting music scene.
Cuba’s Music in short
Cuba is one of the most musical places on earth, and you’ll have countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the distinct and enchanting Caribbean tunes when you visit. Music in Cuba is best described as a marriage between the Spanish guitar and the African drums. Various Latin music and dance styles such as ‘Son’, which eventually gave birth to Salsa, Timba, Latin Jazz, Bolero, Guaguanco, Cha Cha Cha, Mambo and several others have originated from this tiny island
Salsa is one of the most popular Cuban dances and musical genres. Technically, Salsa originates from New York, but Cubans are the most famous for it. Salsa combines styles of Afro Cuban, Afro Caribbean, swing and hustle, cha cha cha, and mambo. Salsa dancers would love to welcome you on the dancefloor, but if you’re too shy to groove, you can simply enjoy the music and live performances.
Cuba’s Lively Street Music
If you want to hear the best of Cuba’s street music, Havana is the place to visit. Here, you’ll find a variety of talented performers serenading crowds with the most soulful tunes of Afro-Cuban jazz, Salsa, and Mambo. Some upscale cafes and restaurants employ bands to serenade you while you eat local or international cuisines. If you visit the smaller cafes and restaurants, you can enjoy ‘son’ music made popular by the movie ‘Buena Vista Social Club’. Don’t forget to visit Calle Obispo, which is routinely filled with street acts.
Famous Clubs With A Distinct Cuban Flavor
With such a dazzling music scene, there’s no doubt that Cuba will serve you some of the finest clubs, such as Casa de la Musica, La Zorra Y El Cuervo, and Tropicana. If you’re looking for a night to let go of stress and groove to some of the best music, you need to hit the night scene in Cuba.
Casa de la Musica
Popularly known as the ‘House of Music’, Casa de la Musica is one of the trendiest places to hear live music. The atmosphere depends on who’s playing, but the main act usually occurs in the early morning. If you’re looking for a club with an impeccable reputation, this is the club to hit.
La Zorra y el Cuervo
Renowned as Havana’s top spot for live Latin jazz music, La Zorra y el Cuervo is a cosy club that has attracted some of the finest musicians in the world. The club features new performers almost every night, and their cocktails are just as good.
Tropicana
Tropicana is one of Cuba’s most iconic nightclubs known for its extravagant performances. Many tourists flock to Havana just to watch its cabaret shows. From the sparkling costumes to the passionate music and dancing, Tropicana never fails to deliver world-class entertainment.
Cuba’s Iconic Bands
We can’t start without mentioning the Buena Vista Social Club, Cuba’s most famous musical ensemble. In 1997, the group released a self-titled album that introduced their elegant tunes to the world scene. The ensemble was even featured in a film selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry. The success of their film and album sparked a renewed interest in traditional Cuban music.
Cimafunk has made a name for himself in the current generation of Cuban musicians. Reminiscent of James Brown, this Cuban funk artist has revolutionised the island’s music direction with his bold combination of Cuban and African rhythms.
Los Van Van is another popular Cuban group. With more than 20 virtuosos in the band, Los Van Van takes ‘son’ (traditional Cuban music) to a whole new level by combining it with non-Latin jazz.
Where Can I Enjoy Music And Dance In Cuba?
The Callejón de Hamel, Havana, comes to life at noon to the tunes of Rumba. Inside, you’ll see gifted musicians making the most of traditional percussion instruments like the guagua, claves, or the conga. The Fábrica de Arte Cubano, Havana, draws diverse crowds with their movies, live dance and music, and theatre. For a small entry fee, you can enjoy some of the best acts in Cuba.
If you want to groove to some old-timers, the Casa de la Trova in Santiago de Cuba is the place to be. This 19th-century salon has different bands performing every day. Cuba’s streets are also often filled with carnivals and mass performances. In July, the streets of Santiago light up with carnivals, and the annual “Old Havana: City In Movement” festival is one of the most unique and extravagant street shows you’ll ever see.
Final thoughts
Cubans breathe music and dance, so there’s no doubt that Cuba is one of the most musical islands on earth. From street performances to carnivals and live shows in cafes, restaurants, and clubs, Cuba is a country with music in its soul. If you’re a lover of music, make sure Cuba is on your list of must-visit countries.
