On what would have been the 76th birthday of the renowned Cuban musician Adalberto Álvarez, his son shared a heartfelt tribute, keeping his father’s memory alive. Brayan Álvarez took to Facebook to express his profound admiration and commitment to preserving his father's legacy.
"Today marks the birth of a genius whom I was fortunate to have by my side for 22 years, admiring him every single day and striving to learn from him at every moment," Brayan reflected. "With each passing year, your absence is felt even more deeply, both as a human being and as a musician, for all the new generations trying to follow in your footsteps."
Brayan continued, "Not a day goes by when I walk down the street and someone doesn't stop me to talk about you, or I don't hear someone proudly say from afar, 'Look, there goes Adalberto's son.' I can confidently say that you have been, are, and will be so great that your legacy and story will never die. So, on your birthday, I can only congratulate you and thank you for teaching me so much in life. I love you, Dad, and I hope you’re enjoying your day from heaven."
Adalberto Álvarez passed away on August 31, 2021, from complications related to COVID-19 after being hospitalized for several weeks at the Pedro Kourí Hospital in Havana. Shortly after his father's passing, Brayan, a talented pianist who began studying music at a young age, vowed to uphold his father's musical legacy by taking over the leadership of Adalberto Álvarez y su Son, the ensemble his father led.
"I know you’re by my side, helping me and giving me strength to continue the immense legacy you entrusted to me," Brayan declared. "Today, I take on this responsibility with great pride, and I promise you, Dad, that I will dedicate my life to your work. Though I am only 22, I spent those years by your side, learning from the Genius and Master that you are. I will always speak of you in the present because you remain with us through your songs and in our hearts," he wrote on the orchestra's official account.
His sister, Dorgeris, also commented on the post, affirming, "It will be so, my brother, and we are all with you to ensure that Dad’s legacy never dies."