Faithful Across All Ages and Latitudes: Marta Valdés, Eternal in Song
The spirit of her native Havana lives on in the creator of Palabras. This October, she may have left us physically, but her presence remains, immortalized in the hearts and minds of Cubans through her music. Marta Valdés was, without question, one of the most influential composers, guitarists, and performers in Cuba’s musical history.
Her compositions flirted with various genres, yet her signature feeling style—more than just a genre—was all about emotion and heart, woven into every song she wrote. Esteemed artists like Elena Burke, Doris de la Torre, Bola de Nieve, Cheo Feliciano, Reneé Barrios, and many others performed her songs, which were filled with love, longing, and sorrow.
The breeze of Havana still carries the melodies cherished by lovers and dreamers, as they continue to revel in the work of one of the most innovative and enduring figures in Cuban music over the past fifty years. Her lyrics continue to echo along Calle Muralla, Plaza Vieja, and the Gardens of the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (Uneac), to name just a few places, while her spirit takes hold of the guitar, gifting us with timeless pieces—an everlasting contribution to Cuban culture.
To Marta Valdés, Cuba itself was music, and every person a creator in their own right. Perhaps this is why her profound understanding of art began at such a young age, shaped by the burgeoning influence of radio in Cuban homes and her early experiences singing in school choirs. The feeling movement arrived not long after, during an era of lively music and ensemble performances.
Timeless classics like En la imaginación, Palabras, La canción, Deja que siga, No te empeñes más, Tú no sospechas, Llora, Canción desde otro mundo, José Jacinto, and many more continue to captivate audiences with their powerful storytelling. For Marta, connecting with her listeners was the very essence of her art.
Her influence also shines through the newer generations of artists, who embrace the challenge of interpreting the works of one of the most gifted composers in Hispanic American music, keeping her legacy of sensitivity and inspiration alive.
Her words, melodies, harmonies, and rhythms are deeply rooted in the essence of Marta Valdés’ art—an art marked by endless originality, boundless poetry, and a profound loyalty to her Cuban heritage, all while embodying a modern spirit.
Through the years, Marta remained steadfast, unswayed by fleeting trends or fashions. She was always the sovereign of her thoughts and memories, in harmony with her time—which continues to be our time, even in her physical absence.
Marta Valdés will forever remain authentic, Cuban, and passionately devoted to the little things—to poetry. Always faithful to all ages and places, her enduring work will continue to inspire, putting words and melodies to new songs for generations to come.
Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez
