Interview: Cimafunk, Breaking Barriers with Every Beat

During the 20th edition of the DC Jazz Festival, we had the opportunity to interview Cimafunk, the Grammy-nominated Cuban musician known for his unique ability to blend funk and hip hop with Cuban and Afro-Caribbean rhythms.

Cimafunk during the Latin Music Conference at Arena Stage, Washington D.C. Photo: Pablo Herrera. 

We spoke with Erik Alejandro Iglesias Rodríguez (Cimafunk) about how he has crafted his unique sound, the complex African heritage that informs his music, and why his band is his "tribe." We also discussed his latest album, Pa’ Tu Cuerpa, which features icons such as George Clinton, Pancho Céspedes, Camila Guevara, and Gonzalo Rubalcaba.

In our conversation, we explored the phenomenon of Latin music in the United States over the past 15 years, a movement that has evolved from being a genre confined to Latino communities to becoming a dominant rhythm, with genres like reggaeton leading the change. We also delved into the stories behind popular songs, how they are created, and the future of the Latin music industry in the United States.

"We must honor the legends and recognize those who paved the way, but we must also support the young people who, from the streets, are using music to advance, thrive, and change their lives. Urban music speaks to real life, which is why it connects with people."

Unfortunately, Cimafunk's concert was canceled during the festival due to weather conditions. However, we were fortunate to interview him, which allowed us to learn intimate details about his career, such as how he produced his first album using only a sound card, a laptop, and an apartment with a subsidized rent for a year in Havana. This experience serves as advice for young people who want to make music independently. Without having studied music formally, Cimafunk has managed to stand out in a country where music is a refined field of study, with little competition in mixing exported genres.

Cimafunk Albums: 1. Terapia. 2017 - 2. El Alimento. 2021 - 3. Pa’ Tu Cuerpa 2024 - Aunque Sea Un Ratico (Single) 2021.

Meeting Cimafunk was a genuine pleasure. We discovered not only a talented artist but also a person of remarkable sensitivity and empathy. With encouraging words for young musicians, it is with great pleasure that we share our conversation with the TMN audience.

Interview:

Hello, Erik. Thanks for speaking with TMN! Is this your first time in the United States?

No, we’ve been here many times and performed many times as well in Washington D.C.

As a Latin American and Cuban, what does it feel like to perform in the United States?

The good thing is that music is universal. The people here are the same as in Australia or Japan. The reaction to music is the same everywhere. The body becomes a mass moving to the rhythm of the music. Music is what gives life.

How do you blend these influences of Latin and Afro-American music in your work, and what experiences or artists inspire you to create this unique mix?

Imagine that. I grew up listening to Irakere, los Bang Bang, Arsenio Rodríguez, Buenavista. All that music was present in my life, along with what my uncle played: Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, Funkadelic. I listened to that music without even knowing who they were. Later, when I started producing music, writing my songs, and making beats, all that started coming out naturally, without a theoretical process. It just flowed because it was what I had been listening to all my life.

I understand you haven't studied music formally or attended a conservatory.

No, no, no, it’s all self-made!

Did you produce your first album on your own? Can you briefly tell us how that was?

Yes, I produced it myself, and it was an incredible process. I was at a point where I didn’t know if I could do it or not. I had a very low budget for a sound card, a laptop, an apartment, and a year’s rent. I decided to take the risk and did it. The process was wonderful because all the songs were magical. Like all songs, they have their story and their moments. That album was therapy. It was the album that told me: yes, you can do it! And people liked it, so I realized that I could live off of this. It was the confirmation that I was ready to pursue music professionally. It was a super beautiful process.

How old were you when you produced that album?

I was in my 20s…

And at that age, what advice would you give to a young person who wants to start in music with limited resources?

Man, do it right now! It’s easier than ever. Back when people were opening doors, creating shows, creating Afro-Cuban music, everything was much more difficult. To make music, you had to go to a studio, rely on an infrastructure that wasn’t in your hands, even if you had the talent. Today, if you have talent, with minimal technological conditions you can produce your music, make your song on a laptop, and upload it to a platform without relying on a major label or a multinational. You can do it independently, create, publish, and not let excuses discourage you. Don’t listen to negative thoughts; they are just excuses. Do it, because in the end, everything revolves around you and your willingness to make things happen. You can change your path whenever you want. If you believe in yourself.

Here in the United States, we’re seeing a revolution in Latin music, especially genres like reggaeton that are becoming mainstream. What do you think about that?

For me, it’s great. If it’s Latin, if it’s music, and it moves people, then it’s perfect! As an artist, I love music and those who create it, regardless of prejudices about a particular genre. The more Latin influence there is in the United States, the better. We must take care of the legends and recognize those who paved the way, but we also need to support young people who, from the neighborhoods, are using music to get ahead, prosper, and change their lives. Urban music speaks to real life, which is why it connects with people. In the end, music is a tool for living, and we live off of it.

If you had to choose a couple of artists who give you strength to continue in your career, who would they be?

Imagine, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Pancho Céspedes, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, George Clinton... Funkadelic, man, that’s community, that’s unity. Omara Portuondo, Arsenio Rodríguez, Bola de Nieve, who is one of the most original artists Cuba and world music has given. Fela Kuti, and of course, there are many artists who, when I’m creating and feel tired, inspire me. I play a video of one of them and I get into the flow. That’s why what we do is so beautiful, you know?

Tell us about your latest album.

My latest album just came out a week ago. It’s called Pa’ Tu Cuerpa and features George Clinton, Pancho Céspedes, Camila Guevara, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, among other guests. It’s a special album and it’s out now. You can find it on all platforms and also buy it on vinyl.

Thank you so much for speaking with us, Erik!

Thank you so much! I congratulate you on your work. Keep going forward!

Good luck with the concert this evening!

Thanks, man, thanks.

Interview with Cimafunk during the DC Jazz Fest. Washington DC, Summer 2024.