Havana – The Capital of Cubaton
Cubaton originated many years ago in poor Oriente in Satiago de Cuba. Young musicians tinkered with new beats, lyrics and melodies in their backyards. Today, the 2-million metropolis Havana rules Cubaton, though. Lots of musicians from all over the country live there. The chance of getting discovered, landing a record contract, getting a gig at a club or radio airplay is much higher in Havana then in any other place in Cuba. Only few bands (like El Medico or Candyman) have stayed in Santiago de Cuba.
The musicians use street parties (held nearly every day in some barrios of Havana), beach parties or the famous Malecon to make themselves heard for the first time. At the Malecon, those musicians can be seen (and heard!) rapping, composing and trying out new beats and lyrics every night. But only few of them have a chance of being successful because of the lack of official support for this kind of music.
Live music is very popular in Cuba, but only very few foreign bands are able to perform there. Nevertheless, live bands can be seen nearly every evening in some local club. However, the legendary salsa bands are now slowly being replaced in the clubs because of the recent revolution in Cuban music. Cubaton bands are taking their places at clubs like La Casa de la Musica, El Delirio, Havanna Café, El Salon Rejo, El Chevere, 1830 or at La Cecilia; bigger gigs (less frequently) at clubs like El Moro or the Malecon. Because most Cubans generally tend to be strapped for cash, the clubs are usually only full on the weekends. They prefer less costly spontaneous street parties, free gigs or cheaper matinee shows on Sunday afternoons.
Cuba doesn't sleep – Cubaton is being played 24/7; at street parties, bars, restaurants, on the beach or from trucks driving past – it rules over Cuba! Also, it's not unusual to see locals spontaneously start dancing Perreo to it. Music and dancing are the essentials of everyday Cuban life.