Music and Refuge: Three Cuban Musicians in Tijuana
By Loraine Morales Pino (El Toque)
HAVANA TIMES – Have you ever wondered how “La vie en rose” would sound with a Cuban twist? Amid the constant bustle of Tijuana, Cuban rhythms are carving out a space, thanks to Yam Beat, a band that for less than a year has been blending diverse stories and origins into a single beat.
At the heart of the group are three Cuban musicians who, after obtaining refugee status in this border city, have infused the band with unique energy. Carlos Fernández Castro, Samira Aguilera Rodríguez, and David Marco, originally from eastern Cuba, share a musical education from the Vocational Art School “El Cucalambe” in Las Tunas.
From a young age, these artists were immersed in traditional Cuban rhythms, excelling in chamber and symphony orchestras.
“Since childhood, Samira, David, and I were companions. Our passion for music united us from the start. Deciding to come to Mexico was tough, but we sought a place where we could grow professionally without the restrictions we faced in our country,” explains Carlos.
Samira adds that despite their youth, every concert and international recognition fueled their dreams. “When we decided to leave Cuba, we did so with the hope of finding a place where our music could flourish without limitations. Arriving in Tijuana and meeting Erich was a blessing. He offered us a platform to integrate and share our culture.”
A Taste of Cuba
The vocalist of Yam Beat, Yamel Anaíd Kuri Guridi, is an opera singer trained in classical music at the Ja’sít Scenic Vocal Training School — a term from the indigenous Kiliwa language meaning “spring.” According to the singer, the band’s name alludes to the heartbeat of music.
Her training influenced the group’s initial musical style, which focused on pop hits in English and Spanish, along with a repertoire of son, boleros, and ballads.
The band has been around for eight years, but this year marked a transformation. The fusion of traditional Cuban rhythms created a fresh, original musical proposal that is starting to resonate in the local scene.
“When we joined the project, Erich gave me a list of songs they had already prepared, which had been successful in their performances. I told them, ‘Let’s do something different. You’ve got it well-organized, but let’s add our flavor to these songs.’ And that’s what we did,” Carlos explains, noting that Erich is still trying to master the Cuban clave.
For the pair of Mexican artists, working with Cuban musicians has been a “very interesting” experience. Erich says that from the start, he and Yamel provided all the support they could. “We agreed that if they wanted to join, we’d work together to move forward. We’ve made great strides and haven’t had any major problems. Communication and hard work have been key.”
Beyond the Stage
Arriving in Mexico represented not only a new beginning but also a pact amid adversity. Erich Otero, leader of Yam Beat, was waiting for them in Tijuana. The Mexican musician, aware of the talent and passion of the Cubans, offered them a place in his band. “When I met Carlos some time ago, the idea of merging came up. They planned to come to Mexico, and that’s where this collaboration took shape,” Erich says.
Although asylum seekers may receive support, adapting to a new culture and obtaining refugee status is no easy task. Now, with documentation affirming their legal and permanent residence in Mexico, barriers to realizing their dreams are diminishing.
The five band members agree that the collaboration has been a deeply enriching experience, as everyone has worked hard to integrate and contribute their best, without distinction. Sometimes it’s challenging, and while the lighthearted, cheerful vibe of the island isn’t common in these parts, they always support each other in pushing their collective project forward. They even joke that Erich is almost Cuban now, having learned to handle David’s boundless energy.
Still, it’s not all music and fun. Keeping up with Erich is no easy feat, as he takes things very seriously. His focus is always “advance and move forward”.
“The others joined when the train was already moving, and it was a matter of running to hop on and keep going,” says Erich.
Projections
Yam Beat is not just a band but a project with big ambitions. It also includes a music school, Tune Up Academy, and aims to grow by composing original pieces.
As artists, their top goal is to record their own songs and release them. To achieve this, they built a recording studio where they can produce their music independently. Each member brings their expertise and supports the creative process.
Recording original tracks has been a long-standing goal, but now, with the studio ready, it’s becoming a reality. Previously, they recorded in a small room, balancing limited time with other commitments.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, their space transformed into a business with multiple activities: repairing pianos, teaching music, and even taking photos.
For other refugee musicians, the story of these three Cubans in Yam Beat can serve as a tale of perseverance and hope. “Everyone deserves the chance to seek a better future. No matter how tough the circumstances, there’s always an opportunity if you work hard and keep the faith,” Carlos concludes.
Yam Beat continues to resonate powerfully, carrying the spirit of three Cuban hearts who found in Tijuana a home where their music and dreams could thrive. The convergence of their personal experiences and art proves that, despite challenges, it’s possible to rebuild and succeed in new lands.
The band has created space for each member to contribute their cultural background, fostering a unique synergy that resonates in every performance. “Our goal is to keep exploring and experimenting without losing sight of our roots. Music is a universal language, and we want to speak it with everyone,” Carlos says.
With dreams of international tours and collaborations with renowned musicians, the artists are ready to bring their music to new audiences. “We’d love to keep knocking on doors and make our way in the music industry. We know we have the level to share the stage with great artists, and we hope that opportunity comes. In the meantime, we’ll keep working hard because we know that with effort, everything will come sooner or later,” David says.
The story of Carlos, Samira, and David is a powerful testament. In a world where borders often divide more than unite, they reaffirm that music is a bridge. Their journey from eastern Cuba to Tijuana has allowed them to grow as artists and inspire others to follow their dreams, no matter the challenges.
First published in Spanish by El Toque and translated and posted in English by Havana Times.