Miguel Matamoros
Miguel Matamoros was a renowned Cuban musician born on May 8, 1894, in Santiago de Cuba. Despite lacking formal academic training, Matamoros became a pivotal figure in Cuban music, excelling in various genres and rhythms. His prolific output exceeded 200 compositions, many of which are considered classics in the Cuban musical repertoire. Some of his most famous songs include "Mamá, son de la loma," "Lágrimas negras," "El que siembra su maíz," and "Santiaguera."
Before achieving fame as a musician, Matamoros worked in diverse occupations, including as a telegraph and telephone line repairman, copper miner, messenger, house painter, carpenter, sawyer, farmer, private driver, and employee at the Bacardi rum factory. In 1923, he recorded "Mamá, son de la loma," one of his best-known compositions.
Matamoros's music is celebrated for its melodic and rhythmic quality, blending Afro-Cuban accents with Hispanic influences. His work continues to be influential, with many artists covering his songs. His creativity and intuition allowed him to become a "troubadour with fresh ideas, eloquent rhythm, and good taste," as described by journalist Walter G. Magaña.
The significance of Miguel Matamoros in Cuban music is such that May 8, his birthdate, was chosen to celebrate the Day of Son, highlighting his lasting impact on the genre.
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