SONG OF THE MONTH: Mi Música – Alexander Abreu

This month I'd like to share one of my favourite timba songs: "Mi Música" by Alexander Abreu and Havana D'Primera.

Released on Havana D'Primera's debut album, Haciendo Historia (2009), the song arrived at a pivotal moment in Cuban music. After years of being one of Cuba's most respected trumpet players, performing with groups such as Paulito FG, Issac Delgado and Irakere, Alexander Abreu formed Havana D'Primera in 2007 to create music that reflected his own vision. Mi Música became one of the songs that introduced that vision to the world.

For me, Mi Música is much more than another timba track. It perfectly captures everything I love about Cuban music. The first thing that stands out is the constant change in energy (in classic timba fashion). The song never sits still. It builds tension, relaxes, surprises you with rhythmic breaks, then explodes again with powerful brass lines and infectious grooves. It reminds us that timba isn't simply about keeping time, it's about reacting to the music and allowing it to take you on a journey.

The lyrics are equally meaningful. Rather than simply celebrating dancing, Alexander Abreu sings about music as an essential part of who he is. It's almost a declaration of identity, expressing gratitude and devotion to the music that has shaped his life. You can feel that sincerity throughout the performance, and I think that's one of the reasons this song resonates so strongly with so many dancers and musicians alike.

As a teacher, I also love using Mi Música because it rewards musicality. The accents, pauses, dynamic changes and conversations between the instruments create endless opportunities to play with the dance. It's a wonderful reminder that salsa isn't just about executing patterns, it's about listening, interpreting and expressing what you hear.

Whenever this song comes on during a social, I find myself smiling. It makes me want to dance, to call a rueda, and simply enjoy the incredible richness of Cuban music.

If you haven't listened to it for a while, put it on this week. Turn it up, listen to the horns, follow the bass and piano, and enjoy the ride.

As Alexander Abreu reminds us through this beautiful song, music isn't just something we hear, it becomes part of who we are.