In the vibrant realm of Cuban music, a fresh name is making waves—Mamá Estoy Brillando. At just 24, this Havana-born artist, whose real name is Wilfredo Alejandro Sosa Espinosa, has quickly risen to prominence as one of the island's most promising musicians. Hailing from the Vedado neighborhood, his tracks like "La época del amor" and "El Verano de mi vida" are resonating deeply with Cuba's younger generation. Yet, Wilfredo's journey in music spans over four years, having started during the pandemic's lockdown in 2020.
In an exclusive conversation with CiberCuba, Wilfredo, or "Will" as he is known, shared how he initially pursued a degree in Physical Culture but found his true calling during the quarantine. "I began making music in 2020, right before the lockdown. During that time, I taught myself through online tutorials. By the end of quarantine, I had the skills to create music," he recounted.
Musical Influences and Unique Style
Mamá Estoy Brillando's songs are a fusion of international and local influences, infused with positivity and optimism. "I feel this year, I've discovered how to blend what I love from abroad with what makes us unique as Cubans. It's something that resonates both with the street crowd and myself," he explained with enthusiasm.
Despite his rising success, the singer acknowledges the hurdles he has faced, including criticism of his musical style and even his name. "Initially, people thought my name was odd, but unique things often succeed. What I was doing had been around for years elsewhere, but here it seemed strange. Still, I've remained true to myself," he affirmed.
Currently, Mamá Estoy Brillando is captivating audiences with his fresh sound and lyrics. His latest release, a collaboration with fellow Cuban artist Chris Tamayo, titled "JLO & BEN," has garnered over 140,000 views on YouTube.
An Insight into the Artist's World
Question: Tell us a bit about yourself. Where in Cuba are you from? What about your education and career?
Answer: My real name is Wilfredo Alejandro Sosa Espinosa, and I'm from Vedado, Havana. I attended the Tomás David Royo high school and began a degree in Physical Culture, but the pandemic intervened. I shifted to music and never looked back once quarantine ended.
Q: When and how did you start your musical journey?
A: I started in music in 2020, right before the lockdown. During quarantine, I learned everything through tutorials, and by the end, I knew how to make music.
Q: What musical genres inspire you, and how do they influence your style?
A: I'm inspired by many things, especially Kanye West. He's the artist I listen to the most, and I consider him a guide. I love authentic things and try to find good in everything. I also enjoy 'reparto,' which has a unique Cuban touch.
Q: Who are your favorite Cuban artists?
A: If I had to choose, it would be El Taiger, though he is no longer with us.
Q: Can you share some upcoming projects or collaborations?
A: I have several projects in the works, mostly songs, following a recent viral project. I'm in a musical phase where I feel I've found myself. Every year I say this, but now I truly believe it. I've discovered how to mix my outside influences with what I love here in Cuba.
The Road Ahead
Q: How do you envision your career in the next five years? What are your goals?
A: I foresee good things coming, whether here in Cuba or elsewhere. I love being here, and in five years, I hope to be happy and inspire others. My goals are simple: to be at peace, to have freedom, and to ensure my family and friends are well. With hard work, everything else will follow.
Q: You're particularly popular among Cuba's younger generation. What message would you like to convey to them?
A: A neighbor told me she appreciates that, despite my young age and audience, my music doesn't promote negative messages like drugs or violence. I want to encourage them to live life, enjoy it, and find what they love. Being healthy and having good moments is important, and that's the message I want to share.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge as a singer in Cuba?
A: Honestly, it's been dealing with people's lack of exposure to new ideas. Now I'm getting recognition, but I've been at this for four years, evolving without losing my essence. Many didn't believe in me or my name, but unique things succeed. Initially, they seem odd, but they become accepted over time. It's partly due to limited internet access. I was doing things happening elsewhere that weren't known here, so they seemed strange.