The Top 10 Musicians In Modern Times From Cuba

Cuba has long been recognized as a cultural powerhouse, particularly in the realm of music. With its unique fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences, the island nation has contributed immensely to the global music landscape. Cuban music has birthed and influenced genres such as son, salsa, mambo, cha-cha-cha, and jazz, blending traditional sounds with modern styles to create a vibrant and evolving scene.

In modern times, Cuban musicians continue to uphold the island’s rich musical legacy while pushing the boundaries of innovation. Here are the top 10 modern musicians from Cuba who have made a lasting impact on both the national and international music scenes.

1. Buena Vista Social Club

While not a singular artist, the Buena Vista Social Club is an iconic collective that has played a pivotal role in popularizing Cuban music globally. Their self-titled 1997 album and subsequent documentary introduced a new generation to traditional Cuban son, bolero, and guajira. Legendary musicians like Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer, and Omara Portuondo were part of this ensemble, and their music transcends generations. Despite being a throwback to earlier Cuban styles, the Buena Vista Social Club has left an indelible mark on modern Cuban music and continues to be influential long after their formation.

2. Los Van Van

Founded in 1969 by bassist Juan Formell, Los Van Van is one of the most important and enduring Cuban bands of all time. Known for their innovative use of electric instruments and combining traditional Cuban rhythms with modern sounds like funk, rock, and jazz, they helped create a genre known as songo. The band’s ability to fuse traditional dance music with contemporary styles has earned them widespread acclaim, both in Cuba and internationally. Even after Formell's passing in 2014, the band continues to be a force in the Cuban music scene, performing and releasing new music to this day.

3. Cimafunk

A rising star in Cuban music, Cimafunk has taken the world by storm with his unique fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms and funk. His stage name is a combination of "cimarrón" (the Spanish word for escaped slaves) and funk, symbolizing his commitment to honoring Afro-Cuban roots while creating modern, genre-defying music. Cimafunk’s 2017 hit "Me Voy" became an instant anthem, blending Cuban rhythms with a groovy, funk-driven sound. His electrifying performances and charisma have gained him a massive following both in Cuba and abroad, making him one of the most exciting figures in contemporary Cuban music.

4. Daymé Arocena

Daymé Arocena is a powerhouse vocalist and composer whose music blends Afro-Cuban jazz, soul, and R&B. Arocena’s deep connection to her Afro-Cuban roots and her ability to mix traditional Santería chants with modern jazz makes her one of the most innovative artists in Cuba today. Her albums, such as Cubafonía (2017), have received critical acclaim for their fresh take on Afro-Cuban music, while her rich, soulful voice has earned her comparisons to legendary singers like Celia Cruz. Daymé Arocena continues to push the boundaries of Cuban jazz and is a prominent figure on the international music stage.

5. Gente de Zona

Gente de Zona, the dynamic reggaeton duo consisting of Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcom, has been a dominant force in Latin music since their breakthrough collaboration with Enrique Iglesias on the global hit "Bailando." Their unique fusion of reggaeton, salsa, and hip-hop has earned them legions of fans worldwide and brought Cuban urban music to the forefront of the international stage. Songs like "La Gozadera" (with Marc Anthony) and "Traidora" have become anthems in Latin music, and Gente de Zona’s infectious energy and danceable beats continue to keep them at the top of the charts.

6. Leoni Torres

Leoni Torres is a popular Cuban singer-songwriter known for his romantic ballads and fusion of traditional Cuban music with contemporary pop. Beginning his career as a member of the group Charanga Habanera, Torres later launched a successful solo career, releasing hits like "Es tu Mirada" and "Me Quedo Contigo." His ability to craft heartfelt, soulful songs has made him a favorite in both Cuba and among Latin American audiences. Torres’ collaborations with international artists such as Pablo Milanés and Gilberto Santa Rosa have further solidified his status as one of Cuba’s top modern musicians.

7. Issac Delgado

Known as “El Chevere de la Salsa,” Issac Delgado is one of the leading figures in modern Cuban salsa music. Delgado's smooth voice and innovative approach to salsa have earned him a massive following both in Cuba and abroad. He began his career as the lead singer of NG La Banda before launching a successful solo career. Delgado’s music, characterized by its infectious rhythms and expert musicianship, blends traditional salsa with modern influences like jazz and pop. Albums like Supercubano and En Primera Plana showcase his versatility and enduring appeal in the world of Latin music.

8. Orishas

One of the most influential Cuban groups in the hip-hop scene is Orishas, a group that blends rap with traditional Cuban sounds like son and rumba. Formed in the late 1990s, Orishas revolutionized Cuban music by introducing the island to hip-hop with a distinctly Cuban flavor. Their debut album A Lo Cubano was a groundbreaking release, combining social commentary with infectious Cuban rhythms. Despite breaking up for a period, the group has reunited and continues to release music, maintaining their status as one of Cuba’s most innovative and genre-defying acts.

9. Omara Portuondo

Though her career spans decades, Omara Portuondo continues to be a significant figure in modern Cuban music. As the only female member of the Buena Vista Social Club, Portuondo’s sultry voice and commanding stage presence have made her a beloved icon of Cuban music. Even in her 80s, Portuondo remains active in the music scene, touring internationally and collaborating with contemporary artists. Her contributions to traditional Cuban music, especially bolero and son, make her one of the most enduring and influential musicians in the country’s history.

10. Paulo FG

Paulo FG, or Paulo Fernández Gallo, is a prominent figure in Cuban timba music, a genre that blends salsa, jazz, and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Known for his charismatic performances and energetic style, Paulo FG has been at the forefront of Cuba’s modern dance music scene since the 1990s. Songs like "Te Boté" and "Ven a Mi Habana" have become staples in Cuban dance halls, and his band, La Élite, is considered one of the best timba groups in the country. Paulo FG’s dedication to modernizing traditional Cuban rhythms while maintaining their essence has earned him a lasting place in Cuban music.

Conclusion

Cuba’s musical legacy continues to thrive in modern times, with artists pushing the boundaries of traditional sounds while embracing global influences. From the timeless elegance of Omara Portuondo to the genre-defying innovation of Cimafunk and Orishas, Cuban musicians are shaping the future of global music. These top 10 musicians represent the diversity and vibrancy of modern Cuban music, each contributing their unique voice to the island’s rich cultural tapestry.

As Cuban music continues to evolve, these artists are ensuring that the island’s musical heritage remains alive, relevant, and influential on the world stage. Their success is a testament to Cuba’s ongoing role as a cultural and musical powerhouse.