Lucrecia, Saturday, May 15, 8 p.m. At the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Tickets cost $45-$85. 305-949-6722; arshtcenter.org
New Times: What inspires you to turn to Cuban music of yesteryear and going with a classic Cuban big band?
Lucrecia: This album reflects a timeless era and the hidden glamour
of my homeland. It was inspired by the nostalgia that always finds its
way into my soul and recreates vivid pictures of the Cuba I remember. I
feel this style of music should be honored and passed down to the
future generation so they may never forget where our families came from
and where we call home.
What was the inspiration behind Album de Cuba?
This album was very personal to me. My parents raised me in a musical
environment and I learned to appreciate this style because they made
sure to keep it alive on a daily basis. The music on this album moved
me throughout many periods of my life and continues to do so to this
day; it is this music that defines moments in my life.
How did Andy Garcia end up singing in your new album? Any other familiar faces on the Album de Cuba?
We originally approached Andy to recite the verses of Jose Marti's Cultivo Una Rosa Blanca.
Once he was introduced to the concept of the album he was inspired to
work with us on other songs; he played bongos and sings in
"Guantanamera," "La Cuba Mia," and "Siboney." Knowing the passion he
shares for music and our homeland, I was honored to work with him on
this very important collection of music.
On this album I was also able to incorporate the voice of the late
great queen Celia Cruz. A dear friend and an international legend who
singlehandedly changed the face of women in the world of Latin music
and made a permanent mark in history with her music.
Why have you chosen Spain as your current hometown, as opposed to Miami, which is more Cuban-centric?
I left Cuba to Spain many years ago and I made Barcelona my home. It is
where my son was born and my entire family settled. I love Miami for
the wide variety of cultures, languages, and cuisines, and I am very
fortunate to be able to come to visit often with my friends and share
in its richness and beauty.
Anything new and exciting planned for your concert at the Arsht Center? Any surprises?
I am looking forward to presenting Album de Cuba
at Arsht Center with the hope Miami will embrace the essence of the
album. I hope that those who attend will feel the passion and love I
feel for this music, and will go home with the music in their heart.
I am in the midst of planning two more albums focused on same style as Album de Cuba. I am looking forward to collaborating with a variety of artists that I admire and respect.