This May 1 marks a decade since the death of Juan Formell (1942-2014), a date that “deeply moves” those who maintain his masterpiece, Los Van Van.
“Today, 10 years after his departure, we continue and will continue to defend his legacy, knowing that he is present in each of our concerts,” the emblematic group wrote on Facebook about whom they consider their “guide and eternal teacher.”
Using a charanga lineup (flute, string instruments, and rhythm section as a base), Los Van Van added trombones and were the first Cuban group to use synthesizers and drum machines.
At the beginning, their sound was a fusion of son montuno, rumba and rock and pop. The band then incorporated funk, disco and hip hop, as well as salsa.
Born on August 2, 1942 in Havana, Formell directed Los Van Van until his death, the orchestra he founded in 1969 and which received the Grammy in 1999 for its album Arrived… Van Van (Van Van is here). It also had several nominations in other editions.
His music has not only been a favorite of Cuban dancers. The author also stood out in orchestrations, albums, and soundtracks for documentaries, films, television programs, and theater.
Thus, Juan Formell is remembered as a composer, double bassist and guitarist with an important artistic career focused on the success of Los Van Van, also called “the music train” danceable on the Island.
Star dedicated to Juan Formell will be unveiled at the Cuban Art Factory
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On February 10, a star from the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) was unveiled in tribute to Formell, for his contributions to the Cuban and universal musical scene. And on October 25, 2023, the institution inaugurated its FAC Constellation by unveiling the first 10 stars named after several outstanding Cuban artists.
The iconic orchestra, which on December 4 celebrated its 54th anniversary, announced the launch of Van Van mode, their most recent album whose release took place on the 22nd of that same month. The new record production of the emblematic group is a joint effort with the company Boths Media and Encore Music.
The phonogram is nominated for the 2024 Cubadisco Awards in the Dance Music category. Samuel Formell, current leader of the group, expressed gratitude on his networks for the news, a recognition that he dedicates to his brother Juan Carlos Formellwho died in May 2023, who left his mark by masterfully playing his bass.
