Manuel Galbán: 1931-2011

Grammy-winning Cuban guitar icon Manuel Galbán passed away of a heart attack Thursday at 80 years old.

Galbán made his professional debut in 1944. In 1963, he went on to join the internationally acclaimed vocal group Los Zafiros, which combined traditional filín movement with other music styles such as bolero, doo-wop, calypso music, bossa nova and rock. The group, which performed at international venues and played concerts attended by The Beatles, became on of the most popular Cuban acts of the time.

From 1972 to 1975, Galbán led Cuba’s music ensemble, Dirección Nacional de Música. He then formed his own Grupo Batey, through which he toured the world and became one of the key ambassadors of Cuban music.

Galbán continued to perform, tour and create albums. He joined the Buena Vista Social Club, and eventually won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album in 2004.

“It is a very sad day for Cuban music and fans of Cuban music,” said his manager Daniel Florestano. “Galbán’s enormous impact worldwide with his unique guitar sound and warm smile will be missed by many.”

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