Federico, a Cuban artist, has become a TikTok sensation after performing his unique version of "Guantanamera" on a bus in Uruguay. He cleverly renamed his adaptation "La Aguantanamera," crafted specifically for the city of Montevideo.
The video, which was shared on April 22, captures Federico introducing himself to the bus passengers before launching into his song.
"I'm going to sing a song from my homeland. I'm from Cuba, and I've been here for eight years," Federico says at the beginning of the clip, which runs a little over three minutes.
Federico admits that living in Uruguay has influenced him: "I've picked up the accent quite a bit, because no matter how much you try not to, it always happens."
However, he emphasizes that this doesn't mean he's lost touch with his roots: "One always wants to maintain their identity."
He also shares his fondness for his adopted home: "I really like this country, I like Uruguay a lot."
From Inspiration to Creation
Regarding the song, Federico reveals that he's been working on it for several months: "A few months ago, I started writing some things for here, an adaptation of La Aguantanamera for Montevideo, for Uruguay."
He also mentions that a formal recording of the song is on the horizon: "I'm going to record it these days, so you'll hear it on social media, God willing."
The clip features a segment that Federico dedicates to the women among the bus passengers.
Cuban Presence in Uruguay
This isn't the first time a Cuban has gone viral for singing on a Uruguayan bus. Earlier this year, in January, another musician from the island created a similar buzz on TikTok.
The Cuban community in Uruguay is notably large and active on social media, often sharing viral moments that celebrate both their Cuban heritage and their integration into Uruguayan society.
In May 2025, another Cuban living in Uruguay gained attention on TikTok by explaining why he prefers to stay in Uruguay rather than emigrate to the United States, citing job stability as a primary reason.
Uruguay has emerged as a favored destination for Cuban migrants in recent years, thanks to its political and social stability and a relatively accessible legal residency process.
Federico's "La Aguantanamera" has already garnered 58,900 views, 5,249 likes, and 411 shares on TikTok, with the promise of a studio-recorded version coming soon to social media platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions about Federico's Viral Performance
Who is Federico?
Federico is a Cuban musician who has lived in Uruguay for eight years. He gained popularity on TikTok for his unique performance of "La Aguantanamera" on a bus in Montevideo.
What is "La Aguantanamera"?
"La Aguantanamera" is Federico's personalized adaptation of the famous Cuban song "Guantanamera," tailored specifically for Montevideo and Uruguay.
Why is the Cuban community in Uruguay significant?
The Cuban community in Uruguay is significant due to its size and active presence on social media, often sharing content that highlights their cultural pride and integration into Uruguayan society.