Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed his sorrow on Saturday over the tragic passing of esteemed Cuban musician Paulo Fernández Gallo, widely recognized by his stage name, Paulito FG. The musician lost his life in a traffic accident on Havana's Malecón.
"A painful farewell to our beloved Paulito FG. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends, and the people of #Cuba, who cherished him alongside other great artists as one of their favorites. His works and performances are an indelible part of Cuban musical heritage," Díaz-Canel conveyed through his account on X (Twitter).
At 63, Paulo FG met his untimely demise this afternoon at the intersection of 12 and Malecón, when his vehicle was struck by a Transtur tour bus traveling on the expressway. A doctor from Calixto García Hospital, where he was rushed, confirmed that the artist arrived in cardiac arrest, and resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful.
The news was corroborated by Cuban television and sparked widespread shock on social media platforms. Journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso shared on Facebook, "We regret to inform you that this afternoon, the distinguished Cuban musician Paulo Fernández Gallo, our Paulito FG, passed away due to a traffic accident. Condolences to his family and friends."
The band Havana D’Primera also voiced their sorrow, highlighting the artist's significant contributions to Cuban music. Born on January 11, 1962, Paulo FG emerged as a leading figure in Cuba's dance music scene over the past four decades, becoming an integral part of the country's cultural landscape.
He participated in concerts and campaigns endorsed by the government, including large-scale events organized by UNEAC (Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba) and EGREM (Recordings and Musical Editions Company). Unlike some Cuban musicians known for their overt political statements, Paulo FG focused primarily on his music, steering clear of public political debates.
In recent years, amid rising social unrest and increasing critical voices within Cuba's cultural sphere, Paulo FG maintained a low profile on political matters, dedicating his efforts to his artistic career.
Paulo FG's Legacy and Impact on Cuban Music
What caused the death of Paulo FG?
Paulo FG died in a traffic accident when his vehicle was hit by a Transtur tour bus on the Malecón in Havana.
How did the Cuban community react to Paulo FG's passing?
The news of Paulo FG's death was met with widespread shock and mourning on social media and was confirmed by Cuban television.
What was Paulo FG's stance on political matters in Cuba?
Paulo FG is not known for making overt political statements. He focused on his music and avoided engaging in public political debates.