Radio Host Frank Abel Remembers Paulito FG's Heartfelt Gift of a First Suit

Following the passing of renowned Cuban musician Paulito FG, numerous artists have shared cherished memories of him. Among them, Cuban radio host Frank Abel fondly recalled a significant gesture Paulito made several years ago in Cuba.

During an episode of "Destino Tolk" dedicated to Paulito FG, Frank Abel recounted, “I have a wonderful memory of Paulo. Once, while I was presenting Cubadisco—the national Cuban music fair that showcases the country's discography—I found myself in an awkward situation. The event includes both an opening and an awards gala, and I had been a presenter there for seven years. One day at the Karl Marx Theater, the outfit I wore didn’t look right on camera; it was an odd combination with a vest that made me look bulky.”

Frank Abel remembered how Paulito FG approached him after the theater performance, saying, “Frank, I didn’t like how you looked.” The radio host explained that he had nothing else to wear and mentioned that in Cuba, presenters usually appear on camera in their own clothes.

Gratefully, Frank Abel recalled that the next day, Paulito FG showed up at the radio station where Abel worked, bringing with him a suit. “It was my first suit, a complete ensemble of good quality in a sand color, and he gifted it to me,” Abel shared. “He didn’t have to do that; I wasn’t a close friend of Paulo. He might have liked me, but we didn’t have a personal relationship. He told me that it bothered him to hear people criticize my appearance, so he decided, ‘This guy is going to look sharp at the closing event.’”

During the program, Frank Abel also took time to inform Dominican hosts about Paulito FG's artistic journey, his popularity among Cuban audiences, and the significant impact he had on music, particularly in salsa and Cuban timba.

Tragically, the Cuban musician passed away on March 1st in a traffic accident along Havana's Malecón.