Luis Emilio Aybar, head of the "Juan Marinello" Cuban Institute of Cultural Research, recently stirred social media debates by declaring that "talking about reparto is a political act." His remarks were made during an appearance on the state-run television program Mesa Redonda, which focused on reparto as a form of urban music in Cuba.
Aybar acknowledged the influence of this genre on Cuban society, particularly among the youth, and emphasized that the Ministry of Culture's stance is neither to demonize nor uncritically praise it. He highlighted the significant social impact of reparto, noting its often explicit language and controversial lyrics that mirror issues within Cuban society.
According to Aybar, the genre often reflects a narrative of male superiority characterized by having more women, wealth, and success, sometimes through violent means. He admitted that its vulgar and sexual content can provoke backlash. However, he argued that such negative elements aren't unique to reparto or reggaeton.
The Ministry of Culture's past marginalization of reggaeton and its artists in official spaces raises questions about their current position. Many artists have forged their paths independently, navigating alternative promotional circuits dictated by market dynamics. This reality was echoed by Fernando León Jacomino, Deputy Minister of Culture, who attributed this trend not to the music style but to Cuba's economic crisis, which has also impacted the cultural system.
Cuban Public's Reaction to the Reparto Controversy
The official statements regarding reparto sparked reactions on social media, with many users expressing skepticism and sarcasm towards the government's stance. One user quipped, "Oh well... it's easier and more entertaining to talk about reparto than to explain how to fix the blackouts, hunger, and misery. Bread and circuses... Wow Pedro."
Another commented, "Reggaeton and reparto are the products of revolutionary upbringing: vulgarity, machismo, and more. They're the 'new men' once envisioned as the future."
Some chose to take a humorous angle on Aybar's words. "So... Revolution is the historical sense of 'totaila,'" someone joked.
Journalist Ernesto Morales added his voice: "Next time you hear 'está pa’ darle brocha, está pa’ darle hacha,' remember it aligns ideologically with Blas Roca Calderío's vision. Just wait until Raúl Torres realizes that Kevincito El 13 might get honored on Mesa Redonda before he does."
In the current sociopolitical climate—marked by a severe economic downturn, rising social discontent, and a youth increasingly detached from official rhetoric—the attempt to reframe reparto may seem more like a symbolic appropriation than a genuine acknowledgment of its cultural significance.
Understanding the Reparto Debate in Cuba
What is reparto in Cuban music?
Reparto is a genre of urban music in Cuba known for its influence among young people. It often features explicit language and controversial lyrics that reflect societal issues.
Why did Luis Emilio Aybar's statements cause controversy?
Aybar's claim that discussing reparto is a political act touched a nerve as it highlighted the genre's cultural impact and brought attention to the Ministry of Culture's historical marginalization of such music.
How has the Cuban public reacted to the Ministry of Culture's stance?
The public has reacted with skepticism and sarcasm, questioning the government's priorities and drawing connections between the genre and broader social issues.