Carmelo André Llanes, Beloved Charanga Habanera Trumpeter, Has Died

May 2, 2026

The Cuban music community is mourning the loss of Carmelo André Llanes, affectionately known as «el abuelo Carmelo» (Grandfather Carmelo), the celebrated trumpet player who was a fixture of La Charanga Habanera led by David Calzado for over two decades. His passing was confirmed on social media by singer Leoni Torres, who expressed his grief at the loss of this exceptional musician.

Born in Havana on April 3, 1953, Carmelo André Llanes devoted his entire life to Cuban popular music. Trained at the Amadeo Roldán Conservatory and the National School of Arts, he was known for saying that the most important lessons of his craft came from «la calle» — the street — a phrase that captured his philosophy as a musician shaped by stages and oral tradition.

His career began alongside Lázaro Valdés Sr. in T con E, and took him through the major Havana cabarets, where he accompanied legends such as Omara Portuondo, Moraima Secada, Elena Burke, and Leonora Rega. He also performed at the Teatro Musical de La Habana and the Cabaret Capri.

In 1992, he began a memorable chapter with Paulito FG y su Élite, recording the acclaimed albums Sofocándote and El bueno soy yo, before leaving in 1997. He subsequently performed with César López's Havana Ensemble, Danny Lozada y su Timba Cubana, and Son Candela.

From 1998, Carmelo became a permanent member of La Charanga Habanera, contributing to landmark recordings including Live in the USA, Chan Chan Charanga, and Charanguero mayor. It was with that band that singer Aned Mota composed and performed the tribute song «El abuelo Carmelo», which made his nickname a household name across the Cuban music world. He also appeared on Isaac Delgado's Grammy-nominated album La fórmula.

His infectious joy, lifelong dedication to the music, and generosity toward younger colleagues earned him the affection and respect of the entire Cuban music fraternity. Carmelo André Llanes was 73 years old. Cuban music has lost one of its most cherished voices.