The Cuban guitarist Benito "Beny" Suárez, celebrated for his close collaboration with the legendary troubadour Compay Segundo, has passed away following a prolonged, unspecified illness. His family confirmed his death on social media, leading to a wave of sorrow throughout the Cuban traditional music community, where he was admired for his exceptional talent, humility, and unwavering artistic loyalty.
The announcement of Suárez's passing was met with heartfelt tributes from friends and colleagues. Alina Puig Yantá, a close friend of the musician, expressed, "I feel immense pain upon hearing the news of Benito Suárez's passing, whom I knew as Benny. He was a good, generous person and a loyal friend. His departure leaves a void, and the culture loses an artist who proudly represented Cuba, leaving his mark on the country's musical landscape."
Suárez was a member of the Cuarteto Patria alongside Eliades Ochoa and later joined "Compay Segundo y sus Muchachos" after its reformation in 1992, serving as guitarist and third voice. He was instrumental in the group's European tours, particularly during the 1994 tour that paved the way for the global success of the Buena Vista Social Club album, which won a Grammy in 1997 and propelled Compay Segundo to international fame.
The Legacy of a Musical Virtuoso
While Suárez often remained in the background, his mastery and camaraderie earned him great respect in the music industry. His guitar skillfully accompanied Compay's distinctive deep voice, cementing the unique style that defined the group and revitalized the son and trova genres on the global stage.
Social media was flooded with tributes and messages such as "Rest in peace, friend," "an excellent person and musician," and "fly high, brother," highlighting both his artistic and human qualities. A niece shared, "Rest in peace, my uncle, my father's youngest brother, who visited our home and was always welcomed. He was the one who always kept my father in mind, gave me shelter when I joined the national team, and supported me with money for travel."
With his passing, Cuban music loses one of its most dedicated custodians. Suárez's discreet yet essential contributions remain a treasured part of the soundscape that brought Cuba back to the heart of the world's music scene.
Remembering Beny Suárez and His Impact on Cuban Music
What was Beny Suárez known for in the music industry?
Beny Suárez was renowned for his collaboration with the legendary Compay Segundo, contributing to the revitalization of the son and trova genres and the global success of the Buena Vista Social Club.
How did Beny Suárez contribute to Compay Segundo's success?
Suárez's guitar skills and vocal contributions were instrumental in defining the unique style of Compay Segundo y sus Muchachos, helping to elevate the group to international fame.
What was Suárez's role in the European tours of the 1990s?
Beny Suárez played a key role in the European tours of the 1990s, which significantly contributed to the global popularity of the Buena Vista Social Club.