Compay Segundo
Compay Segundo: The Legendary Cuban Musician
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Mestre Compay Segundo was born Kiko Cibrián Valdés Amaro, but his nickname "Segundo" is derived from the Spanish word for "second," likely referring to his role as a guitarist in the orchestra of Ignacio Piñeiro. His stage name, however, is universally recognized and synonymous with Cuban music.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: June 6, 1907, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
Died: July 13, 2003, Havana, Cuba
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Cuban musician, singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Segundo was an integral part of the traditional Cuban music scene for over seven decades.
Early Life and Background
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Compay Segundo's musical journey began at a young age in Santiago de Cuba. He learned guitar from his father, who introduced him to the rich musical heritage of Cuba. As a teenager, Segundo joined Los Chicos Cantores del Típico, an orchestra led by Ignacio Piñeiro. This marked the beginning of an illustrious career that spanned generations and styles.
Major Accomplishments
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Segundo's contributions to Cuban music are immeasurable:
He was a founding member of Buena Vista Social Club, alongside Rubén González and Omara Portuondo.
His guitar playing influenced many notable musicians, including Paco de Lucía and Tomás Menjívar.
Segundo's repertoire spans traditional Cuban styles, such as son montuno and guaracha.Notable Works or Actions
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Some of his most celebrated songs include:
"Chan Chan" (originally recorded in 1939)
"La Mala Sangre"
"Guantanamera"
Segundo also released several solo albums, showcasing his mastery over traditional Cuban rhythms and melodies. His collaborations with other renowned musicians have left an indelible mark on the world of Latin music.
Impact and Legacy
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Compay Segundo's impact extends far beyond Cuba:
He helped popularize traditional Cuban music globally through Buena Vista Social Club.
His collaboration with Paco de Lucía, "Guantanamera," showcased the fusion of flamenco and Afro-Cuban rhythms.
* Segundo's legacy has inspired new generations of musicians, from Cuba to Europe and beyond.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Segundo's musical genius, combined with his charisma and timeless appeal, solidified his position as a legendary figure in Cuban music. His iconic songs continue to inspire artists and audiences worldwide. Today, his legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of traditional Cuban rhythms.
His wise words on music: "La música es la medicina para el alma" (Music is the medicine for the soul), encapsulate the essence of his contributions to the world of Latin music.
Quotes by Compay Segundo
Every time I talk about this, I say: when the singer is singing, he must be respected, you must be able to hear what he’s saying. You can’t put a trombone and a drum up there, and a microphone on the drum, microphones on everybody. You can’t hear what he’s saying.
The music that I play and that I like is traditional music, maybe it’s because of my age.
As far as pleasures, you’ve got to have limits. You shouldn’t have too much of good things, so you’ll always have a desire for more and you won’t get bored.
Can you imagine that Cuba and Europe’s youth, who had forgotten about traditional music, who only thought of rock music, are now looking back towards their grandparents? That is a phenomenon.
Ry Cooder for me is a master, a great master that has a wonderful feel for Cuban music. He’s also paid tribute my talent a bit, even though I don’t know half of what he knows.
Young people don’t want to be second to anyone. Everyone wants to be an overnight star. Look how many years I had to wait, how many roads I had to travel, how many songs I had to sing. And now I’m just beginning, never ending.
I don’t sit in the corner waiting for death: death has to pursue me. I’m going strong. I hope to reach 100 and ask for an extension, just like my grandmother did.
