touring-band
- https://werklundcentre.ca/blog/home/bringing-the-heat-with-the-soul-rebels-and-cimafunk
- https://curacaonorthseajazz.com/en/program/2025/saturday-30-august/cimafunk spotify_data: followers: 105430 id: 28wtFivtmdKxFRfu57AhBe popularity: 46 url: https://open.spotify.com/artist/28wtFivtmdKxFRfu57AhBe status: active title: Cimafunk, Soul Rebels, Tank
Biography
Cimafunk, born Erik Alejandro Iglesias Rodríguez in 1989 in Pinar del Río, Cuba, is a groundbreaking Afro-Cuban artist whose music fuses funk, soul, hip hop, and traditional Cuban rhythms. After moving to Havana in 2010, he immersed himself in the city’s vibrant music scene, initially working odd jobs before joining the influential collective Interactivo, led by Roberto Carcassés. His stage name, Cimafunk, is a tribute to his heritage as a descendant of 'cimarrones'—escaped African slaves in Cuba—and his deep connection to funk music.
Cimafunk’s career skyrocketed with the release of his debut album 'Terapia' in 2017, and especially the hit single 'Me Voy,' which made him a household name in Cuba and earned him major accolades, including 'Artist of the Year' by Vistar Magazine. His sound is celebrated for its electrifying blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms, the five-beat clave, and the influence of black showmen like James Brown and Fela Kuti. His sophomore album, 'El Alimento' (2021), received international acclaim, ranking high on year-end lists by Rolling Stone and NPR, and earning a Grammy nomination.
Cimafunk is also known for his cross-cultural collaborations, notably with New Orleans musicians. His 2020 EP 'Cun Cun Prá' features the track 'Caliente' with The Soul Rebels and Tarriona 'Tank' Ball of Tank and the Bangas, exemplifying his commitment to bridging Cuban and African American musical traditions. Cimafunk’s energetic performances and innovative style have positioned him as a leading figure in redefining contemporary Cuban music and Afro-Latin identity.
Fun Facts
- Cimafunk’s stage name is a blend of 'cimarrón' (escaped slave) and 'funk,' reflecting both his heritage and musical style.
- He once worked painting and buffing cars in Havana before his music career took off.
- His musical breakthrough was partly inspired by discovering Fela Kuti’s music during a trip to France.
- Cimafunk organized a major cross-cultural exchange between New Orleans and Havana musicians, culminating in a New Orleans-style second line parade in Cuba.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Raúl Paz - Invited Cimafunk to sing backup vocals at a concert, helping him gain entry into Havana's music scene. (Live performances) [2010s]
- Roberto Carcassés - Leader of Interactivo, the collective Cimafunk joined, which nurtured his early career. (Interactivo collective projects) [2010-2016]
Key Collaborators
- The Soul Rebels - Collaborated on the track 'Caliente,' blending New Orleans brass with Cuban funk. ('Caliente' (2020, EP 'Cun Cun Prá')) [2020]
- Tarriona 'Tank' Ball - Featured vocalist on 'Caliente,' representing the New Orleans band Tank and the Bangas. ('Caliente' (2020, EP 'Cun Cun Prá')) [2020]
- Jack Splash - Produced Cimafunk’s second album, 'El Alimento.' ('El Alimento' (2021)) [2021]
- Omara Portuondo, Chucho Valdés, Pancho Amat, Orquesta Aragón - Collaborated on the track 'El Potaje,' symbolizing a generational and stylistic bridge in Cuban music. ('El Potaje' (2020, EP 'Cun Cun Prá')) [2020]
Artists Influenced
- Millennial Cuban musicians and fans - Inspired a movement in Havana, with many replicating his style and musical approach. (Widespread influence following 'Me Voy' and 'Terapia') [2018-present]