The Cuban rapper Yotuel Romero, known for being a member of the group Orishas, was overcome with emotion during his performance at the Rototom Sunsplash festival in Benicàssim, Castellón de la Plana, Spain. The highlight of the evening was his rendition of “Patria y Vida,” a protest anthem that became the soundtrack for the significant July 2021 demonstrations in Cuba.
As reported by El Periódico Mediterráneo, Yotuel passionately held the Cuban flag aloft in front of thousands, chanting, “For a free Cuba, for a free Venezuela, for a free Palestine.” The performance was so moving that he couldn’t finish the song, allowing the audience to chant the powerful lyrics: “My people demand freedom, no more doctrines. Let’s no longer shout homeland or death, but homeland and life.”
Among the crowd were dozens of Cubans, proudly displaying flags and wearing themed shirts, energetically joining the performance. “It was incredibly moving; Yotuel was too emotional to finish singing, and it touched us all,” a young Cuban attendee shared with the Spanish media.
The impact of the moment was also felt across social media. Colombian DJ Javier Álvarez shared images with Yotuel, expressing the significance of reconnecting with Orishas: “They taught me to sing from the heart; I don’t sing just to sing, I sing to keep from crying.”
The Anthem of Freedom: "Patria y Vida"
Released in 2021, “Patria y Vida” quickly emerged as a rallying cry for freedom, challenging the regime's slogan “Patria o Muerte.” The song brought together Yotuel, Descemer Bueno, Maykel Osorbo, El Funky, and Gente de Zona, and was a key element of the largest protests in Cuba in over sixty years. Today, it continues to resonate as a powerful message of resistance and hope among Cubans both on the island and abroad.
A Festival with a Social Commitment
The 30th edition of Rototom Sunsplash attracted more than 218,000 attendees from 111 countries, establishing itself as one of the world's largest reggae festivals. Under the theme Celebrating Life, the event combined musical performances with cultural activities and a strong social agenda, featuring discussions on Gaza, climate emergency, and interculturalism, along with collective actions in support of Palestine.
The festival lineup included international stars like Shaggy, Burning Spear, Koffee, and Julian and Ky-Mani Marley, with Orishas delivering the night's most emotional performance.
Understanding "Patria y Vida" and Its Impact
What is the significance of "Patria y Vida"?
"Patria y Vida" is a protest anthem that challenges Cuba's official slogan "Patria o Muerte." It symbolizes the call for freedom and change, becoming a rallying cry during the July 2021 demonstrations.
How did Yotuel's performance at Rototom impact the audience?
Yotuel's emotional performance resonated deeply with the audience, especially with the Cuban attendees, who joined him in chanting for freedom, creating a powerful and moving experience.
What themes were addressed at Rototom Sunsplash?
The festival addressed social issues such as the situation in Gaza, climate change, and interculturalism, alongside musical performances, emphasizing its commitment to social justice.