Supergroup The Dead Daisies have become the first western rock band to play in Cuba since the Obama administration reopened trade ties with the country.
The Dead Daisies, featuring Marco Mendoza, Dizzy Reed, Richard Fortus, David Lowy and Brian Tichy with guest players Darryl Jones, Bernard Fowler and John Corabi, performed from February 20 to March 1 in Cuba as part of a cultural exchange organized by the Cuba Ministry of Culture.
In Cuba, the Dead Daisies played both acoustic and electric shows and jammed with local musicians Yasek Manzano, Carlos Miyares, Michel Herrera, Alejandro Martinez, Harold Lopez and Yaimi Karel.
“The week in Cuba was unbelievable, it was one of the best musical experiences of my life,” said Dead Daisies founder David Lowy. “The Cuban people are wonderful and it was a privilege to share the stage with such talented Cuban musicians, music lives in their hearts and souls, it was an amazing experience and I can’t wait to go back.”
On this trip, Rolling Stones backing singer Bernard Fowler was part of the Dead Daisies line-up. “From the time we landed till the time we left we were given so much love”, Fowler said. “The enthusiasm and just pure joy for the music was infectious. The Cuban spirit spirit is a live and strong and what an honor to share this experience with such talented people I got Cuba in my blood can’t get back soon enough. Rice and black beans anyone? Hell yeah!!!”
Long time member and also Guns ‘n Roses guitarist Richard Fortus commented, “Our experiences in Cuba were ones that I will never forget. It was such a dream come true to not only experience the beauty of Havana and the talent of the Cuban musicians, but also to play for the amazing rock fans in Cuba. The one thing that i had never dreamt, was that we would be so graciously welcomed. The shows were some of the best that we’ve played as a band. I hope that this is only the beginning of our relationship with Cuba. Thank you to all that made it so special for us.”
The Dead Daisies will travel to Sydney this week to begin work on a new record at the iconic 301 Studios.
The Dead Daisies, the Noise11 interview
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