MIAMI, United States. – Despite its current state, the beauty that distinguished Havana since its foundation has inspired musicians and artists. The architecture and the people who inhabit the city have left an indelible mark on the cuban music.
Below is a list of 10 songs dedicated to Havana that try to capture -and almost always succeed- the essence and soul of the Cuban capital.
“Beautiful Havana” – Zafiros
It is the theme of the sapphires that Cubans perhaps better recognize for that special way in which the vocalists knew how to give their own style to the Havana theme, especially from the choral work.
“Habaname” – Carlos Varela
This song like no other manages to capture two things in its favor within the long songbook dedicated to Havana: the unmistakable melancholic tone of Carlos Varela, which gives it a special stamp, and a feeling of pain at the passing of time on the Cuban capital. .
“Havana” – Camila Cabello ft. Young Thug
Camila Cabello pays tribute to her roots in “Havana,” a song that combines elements of modern pop with Latin rhythms. Although the lyrics are not exclusively focused on Havana, the song evokes the energy and flavor of Cuban culture through its catchy chorus. Camila sings: “Half of my heart is in Havana.”
“Havana DC” – Willy Chirino
This song by Cuban singer Willy Chirino is a nostalgic tribute to the capital of Cuba. The lyrics describe the beauty and charm of the city and how he misses being away from it.
“Today my Havana” – Xiomara Laugart
This theme remains in the memory of Cubans in the beautiful voice of Xiomara Laugart. Coupled with that, the contradanza rhythm and the personification of Havana as a colonial lady create an image that is unforgettable in the collective memory. The theme was composed in 1984 by the Cuban troubadour José Antonio Quesada.
“Havana yes” – Van Van
This theme has the peculiar value of synthesizing the feeling of Havana, but in a popular and danceable way, something that has always distinguished Van Van.
“White sheets” – Gerardo Alfonso
This theme is a synthesis of local color and everyday gestures from Havana. It is “a song that communicates the collective feeling of Cubans,” said its own author.
“It’s hot in Havana” – Kelvis Ochoa
Kelvis Ochoa, in this catchy and upbeat song, sings about the tropical heat and atmosphere of Havana. The lyrics describe how the city’s energy and warm climate influence the mood and behavior of its inhabitants.
“Postcard from Havana” – Joaquín Sabina
This theme contains the vision of a visitor who falls in love with things in Havana, and even more, with things that that city reveals of an entire national culture. In the hoarse voice of its author, it is a true gem.
“Female City” – Alex Cuba and Kelvis Ochoa
In “Ciudad Hembra”, Alex Cuba and Kelvis Ochoa unite their talents to pay tribute to Havana. The song highlights the charm and sensuality of the city. The lyrics convey the pride and admiration of both musicians for the city.
