We are looking for an independent senior editor
The Rise of Camila Guevara: A New Cuban Sound
Pablo Milanés bid farewell to his fans in Havana on a summer evening in 2022. Despite his illness, his voice remained calm and vibrant, enveloping the audience like a gentle wave. His light dimmed in November of the same year.
Three years later, in a central venue in Mexico City, his granddaughter, Camila Guevara, takes the stage. "This is a song by someone called Pablito Milanés," she shares, performing "Ámame como soy" with confidence. At just 24, Guevara is recognized by Rolling Stone as an emerging voice, culminating her debut album, Dame Flores, with a performance in Mexico City.
In an interview with EL PAÍS, Guevara reflects on the song. Her mother, Suylen Milanés, often sang it with her sisters. "It was powerful for me," she recalls with a soft smile. Growing up in a musical environment, she always knew she wanted to be a singer, inspired by her mother and grandfather.
Her mother encouraged her to attend her grandfather's concerts. "He was a maestro to me," Guevara says. His musicality and unique harmonies influenced her deeply. "Attending his concerts was mandatory, but it shaped me," she adds.
Guevara acknowledges Cuba's cultural influence on her work. "Cuban rhythms and flavor are in my blood," she says. At 21, she composed "Lluvia" and later "Crueldá," both exploring themes of heartache and hope. Her album Dame Flores combines bolero, salsa, and urban music, aiming for diversity and entertainment.
When asked about pressure to innovate, Guevara responds, "It's not my responsibility. My grandfather was avant-garde. I embrace his legacy but make it personal."
A bouquet adorns the stage. Holding the microphone, Guevara reveals her nerves despite appearing composed. "The energy was beautiful," she admits, reflecting on the band's chemistry.
During her performance, she briefly mentions her family and sings "Vida," a song born from personal loss in 2022. "It was a moment of reflection," she explains, channeling her grief into music.
Guevara bears a "Che" signature tattoo, honoring her father, Camilo Guevara, rather than her famous grandfather. "My father influenced my music more," she laughs, recalling his love for rock and poetry.
As her concert concludes, Guevara sings "Conocer el mar," a song about transcending limitations. "It's about breaking free from constraints," she elaborates, encouraging listeners to surpass their boundaries.















LEAVE A COMMENT