When I heard the news I was happy, I think that most Cubans wherever we are, and also many others who, without carrying our blood, are so from the heart because these roots unite people in an incredible way to feel part of our island, of this green caiman that leads the Caribbean Sea like a floating pearl; whose radiance reaches millions of kilometers and infects everyone to the rhythm of Cuban Son.

Yes, you finally knew it; I am referring to the declaration of May 8th as the day of Cuban Son, commemorating the coincidental birth of two greats: Miguel Matamoros and Miguelito Cuni, a fact that we welcome with great satisfaction, especially those we love that genre, and that in my case reinforced by being part of a family whose country roots always are firm in different ways.

I believe this day was owed to Son, because when you listen during the year, the days that are dedicated to dissimilar manifestations, people, events, facts, and many others, you realize that this; that of Son is well deserved.

The first one that I thought of was the maestro Adalberto Álvarez, with the well-earned nickname of El Caballero del Son, since this dedication is largely due to his management and his request. That is why my congratulations through an SMS did not wait, which of course and as usual in him; He responded with his regular affection and attention.

Then others come to mind, some contemporaries and others not so much, groups that over the years have cultivated and continue to cultivate this genre and imprint their stamp on it; but all, without exception, rendered and render the well-deserved tribute to that one who in the chorus of a musical theme says, “ … it is the most sublime for the soul to have fun … ´´

I very much agree that I do, because when you hear one of those musical lyrics your face changes and it seems to you that something has been activated in your body and heart; surely feel a different verve.

Ready to celebrate

For many months the conditions have already been prepared to celebrate the anniversary of such an important celebration, just as it is done with a child that is in its first year.

There have been press conferences, talks and although with special characteristics due to the hygienic and sanitary situation we are going through, it cannot stop being a renowned event.

And although it takes place online, I am sure that like many other events; this one that we celebrate today is also imbued with great creativity.

Our province is not alien to this celebration, because in addition to the commitment and feeling that unites us to the Caballero, we have a large number of artists who cultivate this dance music genre and of course it becomes a party of soneros who from now on; they augur and hope in a not too distant future that the Son can be declared as Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Through the different digital platforms, the media and in any possible way, I am sure, we are all united in a different, but heartfelt and great Day; where each one from his perspective draws what Son represents and how by defending it we also defend Cuban culture and our national identity.

So I invite you all to join us in this campaign and make this day of Son a real merriment, where we pay tribute and remember those two great Cuban musicians that were born, although in different years, on the same day.

Translated by: Aileen Álvarez García