Back from Havana: Rhythm, Roots, and Rumba

Almost a week ago, I returned from another powerful trip to Cuba—this time, a shorter but deeply inspiring visit that added new fuel to the creative fire.

Every time I step onto the island, I’m reminded that the music isn’t just heard—it’s felt. It’s lived.

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From the Streets to the Stage

While in Havana, I had the opportunity to sit in with a local band at a restaurant—what started as a casual evening turned into a cha-cha-cha groove (what some would call son moderno), and I was lucky enough to join on congas. There’s something magical about sharing rhythms live in a place where the music itself was born.

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Rumba, Religion, and the Body in Motion

I took more classes while in Cuba—deepening my rumba practice and diving into some Columbia, a high-energy, often improvisational style that pushes physicality and timing to new heights.

I also had the chance to study a dance class focused on Ogun, one of the Orisha from Yoruba spiritual tradition, known for strength, iron, and movement. It was physical, grounded, and full of meaning—something I’ll be unpacking through movement and music for months to come.

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Snapshots from Havana

One of my favorite moments wasn’t on stage, but on the street—a quiet shot beside a Cuban car, license plate in frame. It reminded me that even standing still, you can feel the rhythm in the air.

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Habana Vieja, Havana, Cuba

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What’s Next

As I settle back into Albany, I’m getting ready for some exciting performances—including an Afro-Cuban Salsa + Drumming set for Juneteenth at City Beer Hall on June 18th. But I’ll share more about that in a separate post.

For now, I just want to say—thank you for riding with me. These trips aren’t just for me. They’re for the communities I return to, the students I teach, and the music I create next.

More to come.

—Jordan