For decades, the sound of his bongos resonated across stages in Cuba, the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Jorge “Bongo” Echevarría, who once shared the spotlight with icons like Celia Cruz, Óscar D’León, Cachao, and the legendary Fania All Stars, now faces a dramatically different reality at age 59. Currently, he finds himself without a home in Miami, a city that once served as a vibrant hub for his musical career.
The story of this Cuban musician has gained attention through several videos shared on TikTok by Conducta Dade, a community project aimed at assisting Cubans in South Florida who find themselves in dire situations.
In these heartfelt accounts, Echevarría reminisces about a career that many musicians would envy. He left Cuba at a young age after rigorous training from the age of seven at prestigious institutions like the National School of Art and performing at iconic venues such as Tropicana. This led to international tours, recordings, and collaborations with Latin music legends.
“I worked with Celia, with Óscar de León, with Cachao,” he recalls with pride. In Miami, he firmly established himself professionally and founded his own orchestra in the early 2000s, achieving radio recognition and collaborating with arrangers and producers now considered genre leaders, including those associated with Marc Anthony and Isaac Delgado.
Beyond performing, Jorge “Bongo” Echevarría was a composer, orchestra director, and music producer. He also taught Cuban percussion, even giving classes at top European universities, including a prestigious institution in London. His education was shaped by elite musicians like Changuito and members of the Cuban national folk ensemble.
However, with time, economic challenges, and a series of personal circumstances, his life took a sharp downturn. The videos reflect not a tone of blame or victimhood, but a blend of memory, dignity, and restrained pain. Echevarría speaks of music as a discipline, a sacrifice, and a lifelong dream—values ingrained in him from childhood and that defined his entire life.
Jorge “Bongo” Echevarría’s story is not unique. For many Cuban exiles, especially artists who relocated decades ago, aging and the lack of support networks become a silent struggle. The stark contrast between past applause and present neglect is jarring.
Conducta Dade is spotlighting his plight to rally support and bring awareness to a reality often overlooked. Behind the homeless musician is a man who played a vital role in Cuban and Latin music history, and whose current situation relies on compassion and community support.
For a community shaped by migration, separation, and daily survival struggles, Jorge “Bongo” Echevarría’s case serves as a poignant reminder that talent and fame do not always secure a dignified ending, and that anyone can fall when the safety net collapses.
The Struggles of Cuban Artists in Exile
What challenges do Cuban musicians face in exile?
Cuban musicians in exile often face aging without support networks, economic hardships, and the challenge of adapting to new cultural environments. These factors can lead to significant struggles in maintaining their livelihoods and dignity.
How is the community responding to Jorge “Bongo” Echevarría’s situation?
The community, led by initiatives like Conducta Dade, is raising awareness and gathering support for Echevarría by sharing his story and highlighting the broader issues faced by Cuban artists in similar situations.