The Cuban Roots Behind TikTok Sensation "Rosa, qué linda eres"

The song "Alibi" by Sevdaliza, Pabllo Vittar, and Yseult has become a viral sensation on TikTok, thanks to its catchy chorus featuring the phrase "Rosa, qué linda eres." This sultry melody has captured the attention of millions of users on the social media platform, who have used it in a multitude of videos. But did you know that the origin of this phrase is Cuban?

The phrase "Rosa, qué linda eres" comes from a sample of the 1927 song of the same name, performed by the Sexteto Habanero, a classic in Cuban music. This track, considered a masterpiece of Cuban son, was later reinterpreted in Colombia by Magín Díaz and popularized by artists such as Carlos Vives, Irene Martínez, and Joe Arroyo.

The use of this snippet pays homage to Cuba's rich musical tradition, reviving the song in a global context. In "Alibi," Sevdaliza, Pabllo Vittar, and Yseult perform the lyrics in a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, English, and French, while the song's central message celebrates female empowerment and sisterhood.

The origins of the song "Alibi" have been highlighted by TikTok users like @cubita.blog, who summarized the roots of the hit musical. The fact that, nearly 100 years later, the song by Sexteto Habanero continues to be reinterpreted and resonate internationally demonstrates the cultural richness of Cuban music in Latin America and around the world.