Calle 13 Performs In Havana, Anticipates Backlash From Exiles

By Daniela Capistrano

image via STR/AFP/Getty Images

Calle 13 brought its brand of hip hop and alternative reggaeton to Havana on Tuesday, performing for thousands of Cuban fans while railing against U.S. policy.

Terra reports that the controversial band rocked their electromovimiento in the historic Malecón in Havana, where delighted locals fainted and danced for about two hours.

Before the concert, Puerto Rican singer Rene Perez, aka "Residente", remarked that anti-Castro Cuban-Americans living in Florida denouncing the band’s appearance “are going to come at us, be all over us, but it’s all the same to us.” The singer also proclaimed that the band was “going to talk about sex, religion and politics.”

Residente is very vocal in his views on U.S. policy, and Tuesday's show was no exception. During Calle 13's set, Perez shouted obscenities at the U.S. diplomatic mission located behind the plaza. Unfortunately for the band, the U.S. diplomatic mission was closed for the day.

U.S. citizens, including Puerto Ricans, can't travel to Cuba without permission. Despite these restrictions, American officials approved the band’s appearance in Cuba. Perez said Monday the band is influenced by politics in most things it does, and is aware it's making a statement with the Havana show.

Calle 13 will play Miami as part of White Lion Records’ 15 Anniversary Reggaeton mega-Concert on March 25.

Tr3s Comunidad, we want to hear from you. Do you agree with Calle 13's take on Cuban-U.S. relations? Do you think his behavior at yesterday's show helped or harmed the exile community? Tell us in the comments!

Tags backlash, Calle 13, Cuba, Havana