During my younger years, I was convinced that the best musicians were those who sold the most records. Obviously this is a statistic to be taken into account when critically evaluating a career, but of course, it is not necessarily the most important criteria.
As time went by, I became aware of the transcendence of art rooted in the sensibilities of members of society, as the coherent response in the professional evolution of an artist, made evident by impressive acceptance of his or her work, to thus become deeply embedded in the souls of followers.
This rare privilege can only be achieved through the unique talent deployed by each individual. It is an exquisite state of grace, and the foundations that sustain it must be preserved with infinite care.
To be recognized by the many strata in Cuba’s complex, diverse society is a source of such valuable pride that our musicians simply know that they cannot afford to pay the price of disregarding this sovereign act of love.
That is why, when arrogance and conceit betray this priceless gift, regret for what has been lost is inevitable, but we are fully aware of the consequences of such a failure before history.
The error lies in disrespect for the social repercussions of one’s work. Sadly forgotten is the reality that one’s greatness can grow to the extent that it is useful to others. The artist will never again know the gratitude and honor of having meant something valuable to someone, through his or her songs. In the face of such disappointment, the damage to one’s credibility is irreparable.
