Albita

We would like him to accompany his song with the cadence of Willy Chirino, the trumpet of Arturo Sandoval, the rhythm of Albita Rodríguez or the sensual sax of Paquito D´ Rivera … but none of them will be allowed to be there.

Global Voices in English » Cuba: Concert for Peace? 2009

They've all come to see Albita, the androgynous Cuban diva with the slicked-back hair and brightly painted lips.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

"It really upset me that everyone had to leave the country to develop their art, even people who had no interest in politics," says Albita.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

Albita likes to say that the last two years have unfolded like a dream.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

But in any case, he argues, the 25 million Latinos who call this country home could easily make Albita a superstar.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

The Cuban government allowed the group to move to Colombia for five years, Albita says, but wanted them to perform for Communist causes and took a part of their earnings.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

"I was well known, but I wouldn't say I was popular," says Albita, who clung stubbornly to the retro sound and formed a band with several musicians who shared her passion.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

"All this attention is wonderful, but I still don't believe it," says Albita.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

"She completely blew my mind," says Madonna, who changed the date of her birthday bash last fall when it conflicted with another Albita gig.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008

Since her arrival in Miami two years ago, Albita has been mesmerizing nostalgic exiles, curious gringos and more than a few celebrities with the traditional country tunes and African rhythms of prerevolutionary Cuba.

A Diva From Old Havana 2008