Lenier Mesa Contemplates Performing in Cuba: "Of Course I'd Sing for $200,000"

Lenier Mesa has frequently addressed the backlash he faced after visiting Cuba with Tekashi 6ix9ine, emphasizing that he is an artist uninterested in political matters. During a recent interview with Chisme con Flow Noticias, Mesa was asked if he would consider performing on the island if invited, and he did not shy away from responding.

"I understand that in Cuba, you need permission from those in power to enter because they control everything," Lenier stated. "I have no ties to Cuba or its government. It's not my concern," he added. Lenier went on to express that Cuban artists have the most to gain from changes in Cuba, as there are 10 million people on the island who could support them as fans. According to him, artists coming from Cuba are struggling in Miami because they lack the audience that could contribute to their royalties or pay for their concerts.

"I'm an artist who works for a living. I have nothing to do with the Cuban government, nor do I care about it. I wish for a change in the Cuban government. But if someone pays me to perform in Cuba, China, or Japan, I will go because I live off my music. The issue in Cuba is the poverty, which is why I don't perform there—there's no money," the singer explained.

Nevertheless, Lenier made it clear that if offered $200,000, "of course I'd go sing in Cuba," or anywhere else globally, because he relies on music for his livelihood. "Now, for a meager sum, I won't go there. I know there's significant poverty in Cuba. One day, Cuba will change; the current government will be gone, and we'll be able to put on great shows and beautiful events for that wonderful audience. When people can afford to pay $100 or $200 for a concert ticket, that's when we'll host fantastic concerts in Cuba," Lenier emphasized.