Young artist Haned Mota, the son of renowned Cuban singers Haila María Mompié and Aned Mota, candidly discussed the challenges and perks of growing up in a musical family during an interview on the show Destino Tolk. "I've had some advantages because two or three artists have supported me, and I'm really grateful to them, but it's been tough because I've had to carve out my own path," Haned admitted, acknowledging that while his last name has opened doors, it's also required him to prove his own talent.
The singer shared that one of his biggest hurdles has been stepping out from his mother’s shadow and establishing his own identity in the entertainment industry. "People have started to see me as an artist because I've earned it through my work," he expressed. Although he values the training he received at home, Haned doesn't hide the fact that the journey has been full of challenges. "I've had to deal with a lot of pressure and some of the ugly things that have happened to my mom," he confessed. He also pointed out that he has been underestimated by peers in the industry: "A lot of people in the field think 'this kid has it all, he hasn't had to fight for it alone.' People don't know the work that goes on behind the scenes, they don't know that behind Haila's son there's a Haned who came to the United States three years ago to make it on his own."
The political climate has also been a burden for the artist, especially due to the criticisms his mother has faced. "Even more so knowing I was coming to live in a country where my mom had those types of situations," he mentioned. However, not all experiences have been negative. Haned revealed that in Miami, he has been able to walk with his mother on the street and see how many people approach her for a photo.
"I don't understand the hatred that's been stirred up by a few people. Haila is an artist with over 25 years of career, and that deserves respect, not to mention her role as a mother. Anyone who messes with my mom is playing with fire," he declared. When questioned about his mom singing for Fidel, Haned responded, "Yes, that's true, but in Cuba, we all said 'pioneers for communism,' we were all indoctrinated in Cuba. In my house, the focus is on music, tours, and projects, not politics."
On several occasions, the public has shown disdain for Haila due to her support of the Cuban regime. Last July, Cubans protested at her concert in Madrid with a giant banner displaying the names and photos of political prisoners on the island.
Understanding Haned Mota's Journey in the Music Industry
What challenges has Haned Mota faced in his music career?
Haned Mota has faced the challenge of establishing his own identity separate from his famous mother, dealing with industry skepticism, and navigating the political controversies surrounding his family.
How has the political situation in Cuba affected Haned Mota?
The political situation in Cuba has been a burden for Haned due to the criticisms his mother has faced for her support of the regime. This has added pressure to his personal and professional life.
How does Haned Mota view his mother's influence on his career?
Haned Mota appreciates the support and training he received from his mother but acknowledges the difficulty of stepping out from her shadow to build his own reputation in the industry.