Cuban singer Aymée Nuviola has delivered a scathing critique of the Havana regime in an interview with Spanish newspaper El Debate, published on Saturday, October 10. This comes just before her free concert in Madrid celebrating Hispanic Day.
The artist placed blame on Cuban authorities for the declining living conditions on the island, arguing that their primary goal seems to be clinging to power, even as citizens endure blackouts, shortages, and struggles to meet basic needs.
Adaptation to Crisis Becomes Routine
During a conversation with journalist Pilar L. Arreaza, Nuviola expressed her sorrow over the Cuban people's ability to adapt to increasingly dire circumstances. She detailed how families are forced to find alternative ways to cook, endure extended power outages, and lower their expectations of what it means to live with dignity.
The singer warned of the danger when hardships become normalized as part of daily life. In her words, living in Cuba isn't truly living—it's surviving.
Nuviola attributed this decline to decades of failed policies and the leaders' unwillingness to change the country's course.
Personal Costs of Speaking Out
The singer also touched on the personal toll of exile. She shared that her father, who is over 80, still resides in Cuba, and she, along with other family members, sends him essential items such as hygiene products, food, and medicine from abroad.
Additionally, she condemned the sight of products labeled as international donations being sold in dollar stores during her visits to the island.
Regarding her ties to Cuba, Nuviola revealed that she currently cannot return to the country, linking this situation to her outspoken criticisms of the regime. She recalled previous visits where she participated in musical projects but stated that the risk of reprisal won't silence her. The interview did not clarify whether there is an official travel ban.
Discussing Celia Cruz, whom she portrayed on television, Nuviola acknowledged the legendary singer as a symbol of a Cuban woman and artist shaped by exile. Yet, she emphasized that political beliefs are personal choices, not something one adopts to emulate others.
The Grammy and Latin Grammy winner also spoke about the challenges she has faced as a woman in son and salsa music, noting that it was Óscar D'León who dubbed her La Sonera del Mundo.
Free Concert in Madrid This Sunday
Nuviola's remarks come a day before her performance in the Spanish capital as part of Hispanidad 2026. Her concert is scheduled for Sunday, October 11, at 7:00 PM, at the multi-purpose esplanade of Madrid Río, in Arganzuela, near Matadero Madrid. According to the official program by the Community of Madrid, admission is free.
The venue is crucial for attendees to note: initially announced for Puerta del Sol, the event was relocated to Madrid Río. On the same day, Cimafunk is also set to perform there at 9:00 PM, as part of the free Hispanic Day concerts.
CiberCuba reported in September on Aymée Nuviola's participation in these celebrations and later provided details about the concert lineup and Cuban artists. In her recent interview, the singer mentioned that one of the songs with a special connection to Cuba that she will perform in Madrid is "Pan para Yolanda," recorded with Spanish artist Melendi.
Understanding Aymée Nuviola's Stance Against the Cuban Regime
What are the main criticisms Aymée Nuviola has of the Cuban government?
Aymée Nuviola criticizes the Cuban government for prioritizing the retention of power over the well-being of its citizens, resulting in poor living conditions marked by blackouts, shortages, and basic needs shortages.
How does Aymée Nuviola describe the living conditions in Cuba?
Nuviola describes the living conditions in Cuba as survival rather than living, where adapting to hardship has become routine for many citizens.
Why can't Aymée Nuviola return to Cuba?
Aymée Nuviola suggests that her inability to return to Cuba is linked to her vocal criticisms of the regime, although it is not clear if there is a formal ban.