Alex Cuba studied jazz in school, grew up in a musical environment and established himself as a performer as a teenager.
“I feel full of the tools I need to stay creative,” said the singer-songwriter. “I don’t even listen to music.”
Cuba, born Alex Puentes, grew up in Cuba and made his debut on national television at age four. Under the instruction of his father, Cuba formed a duo with his twin brother, Adonis, and released the album Morumba Cubana as The Puentes Brothers.
He followed his own path in music, releasing a Juno Award-winning album for world music. Collaborations with other artists continued, which saw Cuba co-write many of the songs on Nelly Furtado’s Latin Album Mi Plan (My Plan).
But it was his own music and the album Alex Cuba which won the Best New Artist Award from the Latin Grammys last year. He was also nominated for Best Male Pop Vocal Album, as well as Best Latin Pop Album from the Grammy Awards.
“The Grammy didn’t really change my life too much,” Cuba said. “We’re still trying to get our music out there.”
Within the music industry, however, the award increased his profile among other artists and his songs are found on four different albums.
“Some artists wanted to write with me,” he said.
Cuba is constantly working on music but by focusing on his own rather than listening to others, he stays true to what inspires him.
His family, based in Smithers, B.C., helps him stay positive, healthy and continually pushing forward amid the business of music.
Cuba is writing a recording a new album to be released next year. He and his Vancouver-based band perform selections from that, as well as choices from Cuba’s self-titled disc, at the Queen’s Nov. 12.
The early show starts at 8:30 p.m. with Nanaimo guitarist Eric Harper opening.
Tickets $18/advance from Headliners and the Queen’s; $20/door.
Please call 250-754-6751.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com