This past Thursday, Cuba mourned the loss of one of its most beloved cultural figures, Hermes Ramírez Silva, the esteemed director of the El Cobre Steel Band. He passed away at the age of 62 due to a stroke.
The sad news was confirmed by Cuscó Tarradell following a direct conversation with Yailien Ramírez Montero, the musician’s daughter, who expressed the family's deep sorrow over the maestro's passing.
"Cuban culture bids farewell with profound grief to Hermes Ramírez Silva, director of the El Cobre Steel Band, who passed at 5:30 a.m. this Thursday at Ambrosio Grillo Hospital due to a stroke caused by high blood pressure," Tarradell shared on Facebook.
Hermes is survived by his wife, Gisela Montero, and three children, along with a vast musical family that accompanied him through more than three decades of dedication to Cuban music.
Honoring a Musical Legacy
The artist's wake is taking place at the Casa de los Combatientes in El Cobre, where family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors are paying their respects. He will be farewelled amidst the steel drums that solidified his reputation as one of Cuba's most unique musicians.
A Trailblazer in Cuban Music
Hermes Ramírez Silva began his musical journey within the Movement of Amateur Artists, eventually leading the Steel Band Caribe and the Chepín-Chovén Orchestra, and founding the iconic Steel Band of El Cobre. As a bassist, director, and arranger, Hermes was an innovator who brought the deep sounds of Caribbean steel to stages around the globe.
His legacy is immortalized in works like “Pailas para Bailar” and in the memories of those who witnessed his energetic and passionate direction, raising his arms with the same vigor he used to make the steel drums resonate.
The Impact of El Cobre Steel Band
Founded in 1987 with drums brought from Trinidad and Tobago by intellectual Joel James Figarola, the El Cobre Steel Band became, under his leadership, Cuba's oldest and most renowned steel orchestra. Its unmistakable sound has graced the Fiesta del Fuego and been heard by figures such as Pope Benedict XVI, presidents, and diplomats worldwide.
"The Steel Band gives El Cobre a name because now it's not just about the church, the mine, or the maroon, but also about the Steel Band," Hermes Ramírez remarked in an interview with CiberCuba years ago.
Ramírez was also a revered teacher, working tirelessly with Santiago's youth to ensure the continuity of a tradition that fuses Caribbean rhythm with Cuban essence.
The island's artistic community mourns his departure but celebrates the life of a man who turned steel into a symbol of identity through music. His rhythm will continue to echo in every metallic beat of the El Cobre Steel Band.
Understanding Hermes Ramírez Silva's Influence
What was Hermes Ramírez Silva's contribution to Cuban music?
Hermes Ramírez Silva was a pivotal figure in Cuban music, known for his innovative approach in leading the El Cobre Steel Band, and expanding the presence of Caribbean steel sounds worldwide. He also played a vital role in mentoring young musicians.
How did the El Cobre Steel Band gain recognition?
Under Hermes Ramírez Silva's direction, the El Cobre Steel Band became Cuba's oldest and most acclaimed steel orchestra, known for its unique sound that has been featured at the Fiesta del Fuego and performed for international figures.