Cuban Music Scene Mourns: Artists Pay Tribute to Edesio Alejandro's Passing

This Wednesday, a wave of grief swept through Cuba's artistic community as numerous musicians and artists reacted to the passing of Edesio Alejandro. Known as a distinguished musician, producer, and arranger, his influence on Cuba's culture, cinema, and arts is undeniable.

Actors, musicians, and close friends have shared their sorrow, lamenting the loss of a man whose music has touched generations and made significant contributions to the national film industry. Lena Burke, a renowned singer, took to social media to express her sadness over the loss of "a great musician, producer, arranger, and a brother to my parents, Rey and Malena, from their school days in Cuba." In her heartfelt message, Lena extended her condolences to Edesio's wife, Idolka, and his son, Cristian, emphasizing the affection and admiration she held for the late artist.

Meanwhile, actress Heydy González shared an emotional tribute highlighting Edesio Alejandro’s profound humanity and musical brilliance. "His legacy transcends time, leaving an indelible mark on music and in the hearts of all who admired and loved him," she wrote, joining her grief with that of the musician's family and wishing for his memory to endure eternally.

Another prominent figure in Cuban music, Ernesto Blanco, expressed deep sorrow over Edesio's passing, noting the recent blows to Cuban music following the tragic accident that claimed iconic salsa singer Paulito FG on Saturday. "Cuban art is in mourning," he remarked somberly.

Musicians such as Baby Lores and Elmer Ferrer added their voices to the tributes, describing Edesio as a "giant" in the realm of Cuban music. The Casa de Maka, through their social media, emphasized Edesio's musical legacy, stating that although "he is physically gone, his essence and art remain eternal."

Ian Padron and Héctor Noas also offered their farewells to Edesio, praising not only his talent but his immense humanity. Héctor, deeply moved, confessed that despite being aware of Edesio’s struggle for life, the news of his passing was heartbreaking. "I will especially miss the friend, the great human being that he was," Noas shared, directing his thoughts to Edesio’s wife and son.

In a collective expression of sorrow, the group Havana D'Primera also paid their respects, bidding farewell to the musician with a message that encapsulates the broader grief felt across Cuba’s music scene: "Cuban music continues to mourn." Edesio Alejandro's departure leaves an irreplaceable void, yet his legacy will endure in every note and corner where his art is cherished.

Edesio Alejandro passed away this Wednesday in Spain at the age of 66, after battling cancer for several years. The esteemed guitarist died shortly after 3:00 pm in a hospital in Alcalá de Henares, northeast of Madrid, where he lived with his wife Idolka de Erviti, following a decline in his health. The renowned artist had been suffering from prostate cancer for over four years.