Havana, May 2 (RHC) – Renowned Cuban musician Juan Formell, director of the popular Van Van Band, passed away on Thursday in a Havana hospital.

The outstanding composer, author of a large repertoire that chronicled the life of the Cuban people through the years, was considered one of the best known Cuban popular music figures around the world.

Formell led his band for over four decades and received important awards, including a Latin Grammy for Excellence, granted by the Latin Records Academy last November. He received a Grammy award in 1990 for his album Llego…Van Van, as well as several Grammy nominations.

Formell died at the age of 71, just months before celebrating the 45th birthday of his famous band, which has recorded 30 CDs. The passing of the outstanding musician has had a great impact on the Cuban people.