In a heartfelt live tribute, Cuban singer Mayito Rivera honored the late Paulito FG, highlighting his significant contributions to Cuban music and the void his passing leaves in the world of timba. Performing in Peru alongside Los Van Van and Pedrito Calvo, Rivera shared his grief through an emotional reel, celebrating the greatness of the artist.
"A legend among legends, Mr. Paulito FG. Today, my Son doesn't even serve to dance, you'll hear it too. Timba is in mourning, all of Cuba is in mourning. Timba mourns, my neighborhood mourns, the community mourns, reggaeton mourns, the drums mourn, guaguancó mourns. That's why the timberos of Peru raise their hands," Rivera declared, moving his audience deeply.
The former Los Van Van member concluded his tribute with a chorus in honor of Paulito FG, emphasizing his enduring influence on Cuban music: "I will always remember you, timbero." His words conveyed the deep respect and admiration the Cuban musical community holds for the artist, whose legacy in timba is unforgettable.
The performance at the Club Lawn Tennis this past Saturday, promoted on social media by El Tren de la Música Cubana as a “concert for the ages,” brought together not only current members of the iconic orchestra but also distinguished former members like Mayito Rivera and Pedrito Calvo. This emotional musical gathering paid homage to Paulito FG, famously known as the “Sofocador de la Salsa Cubana.”
Mandy Cantero, a singer from Los Van Van, also dedicated a heartfelt tribute to Paulito FG. "When a singer of such magnitude leaves us, culture dies a little, our hearts die a little. 'El Sofocador' has left us, a giant among giants. Forgive me, he was a giant, and today my heart weeps," Cantero remarked in his spontaneous tribute.
Paulito FG tragically passed away on Saturday in an accident along the Malecón de La Habana. On Sunday, hundreds gathered to pay their respects, first at the funeral home on Calzada and K, followed by a large procession through the streets of Havana, moving to the rhythm of "La Especulación de La Habana."
The artist was finally laid to rest at the Cemeterio de Colón, where followers, family, and colleagues gathered to give him a final farewell.
Paulito FG's Legacy in Cuban Music
Who was Paulito FG?
Paulito FG was a renowned Cuban musician, known as the "Sofocador de la Salsa Cubana," who left a significant mark in the genre of timba.
What is timba?
Timba is a genre of Cuban music that blends elements of salsa, jazz, funk, and Afro-Cuban rhythms, known for its energetic and complex sound.
How did the Cuban musical community honor Paulito FG?
The Cuban musical community paid tribute to Paulito FG through heartfelt performances and tributes, including a concert in Peru and a large procession in Havana.