Havana, August 2 (RHC)--August 2nd, 2021, marked the 79th birthday anniversary of Juan Formell, a Cuban bassist, composer, arranger, and founding member and leader of Cuban timba band Los Van Van.
Considered one of the greatest Cuban musicians of the 20th and 21st centuries, Formell created a style of music called Songa.
In 2013, Juan Formell was awarded the Latin Grammy Award for Excellence, for his outstanding contributions to the musical legacy of the Latin world.
The award committee describe Formell as ‘the true definition of an innovator and an icon of Cuban popular music.’
Under Juan Formell leadership, Los Van Van won the Grammy for Best Salsa Performance.
Juan Formell died in Havana on May 2nd, 2014 at the age of 71. In his honor, the International Timba Festival ‘Forever Formell’ was created to celebrate and honor his vast legacy.
