A Cuban TikTok user known as @sisoyfelix_ has taken the internet by storm with a 40-second video showcasing his bold dance moves in an office setting in Madrid, seemingly unbothered by his surroundings.
Since its release last Wednesday, the video has garnered over 42,100 views, 1,655 likes, and 112 shares. The creator humorously captioned it, "It's just that he's not in my," poking fun at the situation.
The phrase that most captured viewers' attention was his cheeky comment: "If you want to kidnap me, now you know how," humorously hinting at his inability to resist dancing to the beat, no matter the location or circumstance.
This isn't an isolated incident among the Cuban diaspora. Earlier this year, in January, a Cuban woman spontaneously danced reparto in a Cape Coral, Florida supermarket, also achieving viral fame. In April, another Cuban made headlines by teaching a Japanese dancer to perform reparto, blending the style with classical ballet in a video that captivated audiences worldwide.
The Global Spread of Reparto Music
The phenomenon is part of a broader trend under the hashtag #cubanosporelmundo, where Cubans abroad capture their impromptu dance moments in everyday settings—kitchens, streets, studios, and now offices.
Reparto, an urban musical genre, originated in the neighborhoods of Havana, particularly in Arroyo Naranjo, around 2007. It was born from the experiments of a young man named Elvis Manuel, who described it as "homemade reggaeton."
Since 2010, artists like Chocolate MC have solidified its sound, blending Cuban reggaeton, timba, rumba, and raggamuffin. Gente de Zona described the genre as drawing from timba, guaracha, guaguancó, and rumba.
Today, reparto enjoys its widest global reach, with a presence in countries like Peru, Miami, Spain, Japan, and South Korea, fueled by videos like the one from @sisoyfelix_.
Cultural Impact and Government Acknowledgment
The cultural impact of reparto has even reached the corridors of power in Cuba. The Cuban government discussed the genre on the Mesa Redonda in March of last year, a sign that its influence can no longer be overlooked.
Meanwhile, individuals like @sisoyfelix_ continue to prove that joy and cultural identity know no office hours.
The Rise of Reparto and Its Global Influence
What is Reparto music?
Reparto is an urban musical genre that originated in Havana, Cuba, blending elements of reggaeton, timba, rumba, and raggamuffin.
How did Reparto become popular globally?
Reparto's global popularity is largely driven by viral videos shared by Cubans abroad, showcasing spontaneous dance moments in everyday settings.