The state-run program, Roundtable, recently focused on the influence of Reparto on contemporary Cuban society, examining its cultural, social, and political implications, alongside its growing popularity among the masses. Interviews conducted with Cubans on the streets of Havana revealed a consensus that many reggaeton songs feature inappropriate language and seem to be spiraling out of control. However, they acknowledged that some artists have successfully distanced themselves from such norms, earning public approval. Among those praised for their "good lyrics" were Jacob Forever and El Chacal.
While the experts present avoided naming musicians who defend this artistic expression, the program showcased images of notable Reparto figures, including El Taiger, Oniel Bebeshito, Ja Rulay, the duo Charly & Johayron, Velito el Bufón alongside Alexander Abreu, Chocolate MC, Lenier Mesa, Dany Ome, and Kevincito el 13.
Is Reparto a Musical Genre?
Musicologist Lea Cárdenas illuminated that within academic circles, there is still debate on whether Reparto qualifies as a standalone musical genre. "The Cuban musicological community hasn't reached a consensus on this matter. For a form of expression to be classified as a genre, it needs to exhibit sustained, unique characteristics and rhythmic patterns over time," she explained.
According to Cárdenas, Reparto emerged around 2010 as an evolution of Cuban reggaeton, rooted in tracks like "El Guachineo" and "Bajanda" by Yosvanis Arismin Sierra Hernández, known as Chocolate MC. "Reparto is an entirely native expression of Cuban music, closely linked to popular dance music," she added.
In response to a query from official journalist Arleen Rodríguez Derivet about whether this music remains Cuban when performed in Miami, Cárdenas was unequivocal: "It is Cuban."
A Powerful Yet Risky Social Expression
Luis Emilio Aybar, director of the Juan Marinello Institute, emphasized that "Reparto holds significant sway in Cuban society, influencing cultural preferences and practices." To him, discussing this urban expression is inherently political. Aybar acknowledged the presence of negative elements within this music style, but insisted they aren't exclusive to reggaeton or Reparto.
"The rhetoric of male superiority, boasting more women, wealth, assets, success, and even violent dominance, often contains vulgar and sexual language, which can be off-putting," Aybar stated. He maintained that the institutional stance has been clear: "Neither demonize Reparto nor praise it uncritically."
Urban Music and the Cuban Cultural Industry
Fernando León Jacomino, the Deputy Minister of Culture, discussed structural challenges faced by Cuba's music industry, highlighting the lack of resources to host concerts and events featuring group performances. "The total cost of a show often exceeds the artistic value by three to five times," he explained, illustrating why even renowned artists like Van Van, Alexander Abreu, or Manolito Simonet struggle to tour regularly across the country.
On the subject of official promotion circuits, Jacomino noted that urban genre artists need cultural institution evaluations to participate. "These groups work based on supply and demand, earning according to their billing. They're required to maintain quality and aesthetic standards but operate independently, responding to market demands, which entails other regulatory mechanisms," he detailed.
Jacomino also blamed the U.S. embargo for affecting the music industry while admitting that traditional promotion "no longer works as it once did," acknowledging the significant impact of social media over state media.
A Culture Reflecting Society
Researcher Yanelis Despaigne warned about the dangers of ignoring the social context of the urban phenomenon. "This music is consumed across all social strata in Cuba," she noted. She cited recent studies suggesting that some see being "reparteros" as a pathway to upward mobility and prosperity. "These are preliminary studies we should pay attention to," she cautioned, concerned about the direction Cuban society is taking.
Aybar concluded, "We need to worry not just about what's in the songs but about what's happening within various social groups" in the nation.
Despite the cultural institutions' conciliatory stance trying to balance Reparto without outright condemnation, it's evident that many values promoted by this music clash with the principles the State claims to uphold. The official rhetoric stops short of taking responsibility for the ecosystem that fostered this expression's rise, pointing to its effects without addressing the root causes: the social, economic, and educational crisis pervading Cuban society. If Reparto mirrors street realities, the issue lies not only in the music but within the society that embraces it.
Understanding the Impact of Reparto in Cuba
What is Reparto in Cuban music?
Reparto is a musical expression that originated in Cuba around 2010 as an evolution of Cuban reggaeton. It is characterized by its unique rhythmic patterns and cultural ties to popular dance music.
Why is Reparto controversial in Cuban society?
Reparto is controversial due to its often vulgar and sexually explicit lyrics that promote values conflicting with those upheld by the Cuban government, such as male superiority and materialism.
How has the Cuban government responded to Reparto music?
The Cuban government has adopted a cautious stance, neither condemning nor fully endorsing Reparto music. It acknowledges the genre's influence while warning against its negative elements.