Cuban reggaeton artist Alejandro Santoya, popularly known as El Yonki, traveled to Cuba this past weekend to bid farewell to his late mother. He gave a final goodbye with a heartfelt Yoruba chant dedicated to Ikú.
In Afro-Cuban tradition, Ikú governs the process of physical death. Ikú is the Lord of Death, who appears to receive the body. El Yonki sang to Ikú, with a powerful voice, under the sunlight, and in the middle of the street. He honored the tradition before the deity responsible for receiving his mother, who had been battling a painful illness for months.
The artist expressed feeling devastated this week, as his mother was a very important person in his life. "I have to face the stage and sing to the audience with my heart shattered," he recently stated.
El Yonki and his wife have stayed away from social media and are mourning with as much discretion as possible.
The artist has often expressed that his love for his mother and daughter compels him to travel to Cuba frequently. He emphasized that he wouldn't stop visiting them, even if it drew criticism in Miami, because for him, family comes above all else.
El Yonki's Farewell to His Mother: Key Questions Answered
In light of El Yonki's emotional farewell to his mother, here are some key questions and answers that provide further insight into the situation and its cultural context.
Who is El Yonki?
El Yonki, whose real name is Alejandro Santoya, is a Cuban reggaeton artist known for his popular music and strong cultural ties to Cuba.
What is the significance of the Yoruba chant to Ikú?
In Afro-Cuban tradition, a chant to Ikú, the Lord of Death, is a way of honoring the deceased and guiding their spirit as they transition from the physical world.
Why does El Yonki travel frequently to Cuba?
El Yonki travels frequently to Cuba due to his deep love for his family, specifically his mother and daughter, despite the criticism he may face in Miami.