Havana RPM Vinyl International Festival Celebrates Its 2nd Edition

The Havana RPM Vinyl International Festival is gearing up for its second edition, set to take place in the Cuban capital on December 13th and 14th, with a special focus on the iconic Cuban bands Van Van and Irakere.

Founded by DJ Jigüe and organized by Guámpara Music in collaboration with the Empresa de Grabaciones y Ediciones Musicales (EGREM), the festival offers a unique experience that connects the emotional bond between vinyl records and Havana.

«The history of this island can be told through its music,» says DJ Jigüe, the creator of the Havana RPM Vinyl International Festival, the only event of its kind in Cuba. For the second time, the festival will bring together music lovers, DJs, musicians, collectors, international vinyl industry professionals, and anyone who believes that this round, flat object means more than just a physical medium for sound.

In a world dominated by digital media, vinyl records—once considered relics of the past—have survived and continue to thrive. Sales records are breaking around the globe, new labels are emerging, and reissues are flooding the market. But while vinyl production flourishes worldwide, in Cuba, it has become part of the musical archaeology.

According to DJ Jigüe, the event is more than just a celebration; it is «a platform to safeguard and promote a cultural heritage collected over the years in our country through countless records.»

In recent decades, vinyl has experienced a remarkable resurgence worldwide, with sales consistently on the rise. DJ Jigüe emphasized that «Cuba should also be part of this growing global movement,» recognizing the importance of revitalizing the country’s relationship with this format that once played a crucial role in preserving its musical heritage.

Reinier Rodríguez, director of Cuba’s largest record label, stated that the festival represents the best example of an inclusive event, where an independent project collaborates with a state institution, especially significant during EGREM’s 60th anniversary.

For two days, Havana will spin at revolutions per minute, like a vinyl record, thanks to the participation of guest artists, including DJ sets by: Nickodemus, Future Rootz, and Ralo from the United States; Jason Palma from Canada; D’Boys from Cuba-Canada; Camila Aye Okun and Dayle from Cuba; and Fanquiero from Italy, among others.

Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez