Spanish artist Wayota OD, known for his bold move to Cuba amidst the island's energy and social crisis, has shared a fresh video from Havana. After spending a month on the island, he remains steadfast in his choice, asserting, "I won't regret it, no matter what happens." On his TikTok account (@wayota.od), he recounted how a stroke led him to a life-altering decision to relocate to Cuba with the intention of recording a music album.
His physical recovery prompted him to reevaluate his life and embrace a radical change. "I have no control over what tomorrow brings, but no matter the outcome, regret is not an option," he stated, showcasing glimpses of his Cuban lifestyle and celebrating the completion of his album.
Mixed Reactions: Empathy, Criticism, and Skepticism
His story has sparked a wave of reactions on social media. On TikTok, where he boasts thousands of followers, many praised his bravery. "You are courageous, unlike those who criticize from their sofas," commented one user. "Go ahead, my friend, good luck," another wrote.
However, not all feedback was positive. Critics questioned his financial situation and the circumstances enabling his stay on the island. "Do you live off the payment from the Spanish government?" one commenter asked. Another remarked, "With the Spanish subsidy, one could live in Cuba, something a Cuban couldn't do."
Some expressed skepticism about his motives. "He was already a socialist before moving to Cuba. At least he's practicing what all pro-Fidel people in Spain should do," one user noted. Others, without irony, wished him success: "May it go well for you, and may you record your album. Musically, Cuba is a marvel."
On Instagram, where he posted the same video earlier, reactions ranged from jokes about blackouts and his accent to more spiritual reflections: "Christ gave you a second chance," a follower wrote. "We all have light... inside us," another pointed out.
From Blackouts to Scams: A Continuing Journey
Wayota OD's story first gained media attention last April when he arrived in Cuba during a 48-hour blackout. At that time, he expressed concerns about the food he had purchased upon arrival and used the lack of electricity as an opportunity to draw.
Soon after, he reported being the victim of a scam during a night out when a woman stole his money and belongings. The incident sparked numerous reactions and warnings about the dangers of trusting too quickly in unfamiliar surroundings.
Despite these challenges, the young Spaniard has maintained a positive outlook, defending his decision to live in Cuba as a journey of personal rebuilding and artistic exploration.
A Contrarian Tale Amid Mass Exodus
While thousands of Cubans continue to leave the island, Wayota OD's story presents an uncommon narrative: that of a foreigner willingly moving to a crisis-ridden country. His journey garners interest, criticism, empathy, and a fair share of controversy.
For some, it is a testament to courage; for others, an unsustainable fantasy. Meanwhile, he continues to document his daily life and artistic evolution, determined to record in Cuba the album that marks his new beginning.
Wayota OD's Journey to Cuba: Key Questions
Why did Wayota OD move to Cuba?
After suffering a stroke, Wayota OD decided to move to Cuba to start a new chapter in his life and record a music album.
How has Wayota OD's decision been received on social media?
Reactions have been mixed, with some praising his bravery and others questioning his financial situation and motives.
What challenges has Wayota OD faced in Cuba?
He has dealt with power outages and was reportedly scammed during a night out, losing money and belongings.