José Luis Quintana Fuentes, the esteemed Cuban percussionist affectionately known as "Changuito," has passed away at the age of 76 in Havana. This sad news was confirmed by the Cuban Institute of Music. Celebrated as a percussion legend both in Cuba and internationally, Changuito was instrumental in founding the renowned band Los Van Van alongside Juan Formell.
As a key figure in the group, Changuito was pivotal in developing the songo—a groundbreaking rhythm that blended traditional Cuban musical elements with contemporary sounds. His exceptional skills on the timbales and tumbadoras became a signature of the band for over two decades, as highlighted by the Institute in their heartfelt tribute post.
Los Van Van also expressed their sorrow, acknowledging how Changuito's unique talent and secret touch revolutionized Cuban rhythm. "Today, the earth mourns him, and the heavens dance to his beat," read their message of condolence.
Despite his anticipated passing due to a prolonged decline in health, the news has deeply impacted Cuba's artistic community. Changuito had been living under difficult circumstances, facing severe health issues that worsened in 2022 when he lost a leg due to a delayed hospital admission—a fact publicly criticized by his children.
Although celebrated as a cultural icon, Changuito's plight was largely overlooked by state institutions, which only responded after social media outcries. In April of the previous year, musician Giraldo Piloto appealed for assistance for Changuito, who lacked essential home amenities like a refrigerator, with his house's door and roof in disrepair.
A Life Devoted to Music
Born on January 18, 1948, in Casablanca, Havana, Changuito is recognized as one of Cuba's greatest percussionists. His nickname was bestowed upon him in 1964 by pianist, director, and composer Felipe Dulzaides during his time with the pop-rock band Los Armónicos. Not only was he a rhythmic innovator, but he was also a generous mentor, educating future percussionists at universities in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the United States.
Changuito's inventive techniques and creativity earned him numerous awards, including three Grammys, securing his place among drumming legends such as Tata Güines and Giovanni Hidalgo. Nevertheless, his later years highlight a harsh reality: many of Cuba's most influential artists face neglect in their old age, despite their significant cultural contributions.
While Cuban institutions now express their condolences, his passing serves as a reminder of previously ignored pleas, material shortages, and the solidarity shown more by peers and admirers than by the state itself. Now, "the heavens dance to his beat," yet Cuba grieves a loss that might have been less painful.
FAQs on José Luis Quintana "Changuito" and His Legacy
Who was José Luis Quintana "Changuito"?
José Luis Quintana "Changuito" was a renowned Cuban percussionist, celebrated for his role in founding Los Van Van and developing the innovative songo rhythm.
What is the songo rhythm?
The songo rhythm is a fusion of traditional Cuban music with contemporary sounds, developed by Changuito during his time with Los Van Van.
What challenges did Changuito face in his later years?
In his later years, Changuito faced neglect by state institutions, living in poor conditions with serious health problems, which were exacerbated by a delayed hospital admission.