The story of Reynier Mariño, a Cuban guitarist and a leading figure in flamenco on the island, is one of remarkable transformation. Earlier this May, he opened up about how alcoholism led him to lose everything—his career, family, and health—and how he managed to rebuild his life after two stays at Havana's Psychiatric Hospital and achieving nine years of continuous sobriety, as he shared with Cubalite.
Born on September 20, 1979, in Havana, Mariño crafted a flourishing career as a flamenco guitarist, having trained at Cuba's premier musical institutions and earning a degree from the Royal Academy of Music in Madrid. He studied under renowned musicians like Leo Brouwer, Manolo Sanlúcar, and Tomatito.
In 2003, he released "Alma Gitana," the first flamenco album recorded in Cuba, and moved to Spain in 2006 before settling in Uruguay. There, he consistently filled the Zavala Muñiz Hall at Montevideo's Teatro Solís.
Descent into Alcoholism
It was in Uruguay that his battle with alcohol began, sparked by a sip of rum at a bar known as El Tartamudo. "After that first day, I kept returning, not to play music, but for the rum," he revealed on journalist Indira Román's podcast. His addiction spiraled, leading him to abandon major performances, strain his family ties, and return to Cuba without a solution.
Once back in Cuba, he encountered musicians DJ Unic and El Chacal and delved into the reggaeton scene. "I wanted to continue the cycle," he confessed, understanding his own role in his downward spiral.
Turning Point and Recovery
His first stint in Mazorra lasted 45 days, but he emerged unrehabilitated and continued drinking. The breaking point came at Pazillo Bar, where his drunken state led to a fall, breaking a glass, and injuring himself. "I realized I had let down my parents, left the girlfriend I loved, and lost my career," he admitted.
Returning to Mazorra, he received specialized support, but true change began when he joined Alcoholics Anonymous after his release. "What saved me was reaching a point where I felt like dying. I would go days without eating, embracing the sharp sting of strong rum," he shared.
Today, Mariño has maintained his sobriety for nine years without relapse. He strictly avoids even non-alcoholic beverages like piña coladas, beer, mojitos, and cola drinks that remind him of a Cuba Libre.
Sharing His Story
As an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, Mariño now gives talks to those battling addiction, using his personal journey as a beacon of hope. "An alcoholic only trusts another alcoholic. That's why so many believe in me—because of my story," he stated.
He also shed light on the genetic aspect of his addiction; his father, Manuel Mariño, was an alcoholic who recovered without medical help, unknowingly passing on the predisposition. "For me, it was worse because I inherited it, something I never imagined could happen," he explained.
"I'm an alcoholic who hasn't drunk in many years, but I'm still an alcoholic. Alcoholism isn't curable," he concluded, sharing the message he now brings to others fighting the same battle.
Understanding Reynier Mariño's Struggle with Alcoholism
What triggered Reynier Mariño's alcoholism?
Reynier Mariño's struggle with alcohol began in Uruguay after he started drinking rum at a bar called El Tartamudo, which led to a dependence on alcohol.
How did Reynier Mariño achieve sobriety?
Mariño achieved sobriety after two stays at Havana's Psychiatric Hospital and by joining Alcoholics Anonymous, maintaining his recovery for nine years without a relapse.
What role does Reynier Mariño play in Alcoholics Anonymous?
Reynier Mariño is an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, sharing his experiences and providing motivational talks to support others struggling with addiction.