WDR 26.05.1919: Geburtstag der kubanischen Pianolegende Rubén González

Born on May 26, 1919, Rubén González decided, shortly before completing his medical studies, to dedicate his life to the piano. He made Cuban music world-famous. At 77, pianist Rubén González actually wanted to enjoy his retirement. But things turned out differently. American guitarist Ry Cooder and producer Nick Gold traveled to Havana for a crossover project between Cuban and West African musicians. When the Africans didn't arrive, other renowned names stepped in at short notice—among them Ibrahim Ferrer, Eliades Ochoa, Omara Portuondo, and Rubén González himself. The Buena Vista Social Club, as they are known in Cuba, embarked on a world tour, filling concert halls from New York to Amsterdam. When Wim Wenders' documentary film was released in 1998, González and his bandmates were at the height of their second, late-blooming career. Born on May 26, 1919, Rubén González played the piano every day from childhood. Despite this, he initially wanted to become a doctor after finishing school. However, in 1940 he abandoned his medical studies and devoted himself entirely to music. He became one of Cuba's most famous and successful pianists. He was known as a man with silken hands, a profound sense of rhythm and harmony, and the pianist who further developed the Cuban son. Even at the age of 81, the piano legend was still touring the world with the Buena Vista Social Club. He gave his last public performance two years later in Mexico and Cuba. Rubén González died in December 2003 at his home in Havana. Author: Andrea Kath