On March 6, Diplo, Walshy Fire, and Jillionaire – the DJ crew known as Major Lazer – are headed to Cuba. According to Billboard, they’re one of the first major U.S. acts to perform in the island nation since ties were restored between the two countries. On July 1, 2015, President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. would re-establish diplomatic relations with Cuba for the first time since 1960. The controversial EDM group, which has already had touring success throughout the Caribbean, are playing their concert as a preview for the upcoming Musicabana music festival, from May 5-8. As a further display of restored cultural exchange between the two countries, Major Lazer will also meet with music students and perform with local producers.
Regarding the groundbreaking journey, Diplo released the following statement:
“For as long as I can remember, Cuba has played an influential role on my love of music — Cuba has such a powerful cultural impact all over the world and for me, especially growing up in Florida, it became one of the biggest cultural centers for music to evolve from…I was lucky enough to visit Cuba a few years back with my friends Calle 13 and during my four days there, my mind was blown by the people, depth of culture, and their way of life. Going back to perform in 2016 and to be a part of the culture once again is a huge blessing and I couldn’t be more honored to bring the Major Lazer project there.”
The group will perform a free show at the Tribuna José Martí in front of the U.S. Embassy. Check out the flyer below:
[H/T Billboard]