Pablo was, is, will be…

June 22, 2022

Before thousands of people gathered at the City Sports coliseum, Cuban singer-songwriter Pablo Milanés offered a memorable concert this Tuesday, in one of the stops (perhaps the most emotional, and in any case the essential one) of his Days of Light tour.

Much was speculated on social media and in the press about this presentation; some seemed to ignore something fundamental: Pablo Milanés' connection with his audience goes beyond positions on a political spectrum, generational affinities, or even specific tastes and sensibilities: Pablo Milanés' symbolic capital welcomes multitudes.

And a multitude attended a concert at which many thousands more would have wanted to be.

From the beginning, hundreds of lights filled the outdoor theater: people lit up their cell phones to welcome the singer. Amid the clamor, the first phrase was heard: "Come all to my garden…"

"I've always said that (this is) my best audience," he affirmed in the opening moments. And from there, emblematic songs from one of the most extraordinary repertoires of Cuban songwriting of all time, to which were added more recent pieces, included in recordings from recent years.

Accompanied by a simple musical ensemble (Miguel Núñez on keyboards and Cary Varona on cello), again and again he took up his guitar to accompany himself. His voice had its characteristic warmth, elegance in phrasing, the nuances that have fascinated millions of followers around the world.

Between songs, his remarks: he was evoking moments, inspirations, companions and collaborations. The usual dialogue with attendees at his performances. The audience responded with their applause.

In some songs he invited attendees to sing along with him, although normally people accompanied him throughout almost the entire concert. It is the atmosphere that Pablo creates in his performances. Sometimes just a few chords were enough to achieve communion.

Suddenly, in the midst of silence, the often-repeated declaration was heard: "Pablo, I love you!"

A singer of fruitful confluences (tradition and contemporaneity; bolero, son and filin), his presentation had the melodic variety and rhythmic alternation that he has made during six decades of career.

The concert in Havana demonstrates what many know: whether living here or abroad, whether speaking in the media or remaining silent, Pablo Milanés is a permanent presence, companion to millions. Pablo was. Is. Will be.