THE BUENA VISTA ORCHESTRA IGNITE THE NEXT CHAPTER OF CUBAN MUSIC WITH THE FIERY NEW SINGLE ‘CANDELA’ 

The Buena Vista Orchestra breathes exhilarating new life into the Cuban classic ‘Candela’ with a vibrant reimagining that bridges tradition and innovation.he single comes ahead of their rare London show at indigo at The O2 on February 6th 2027.

Some songs never lose their spark. They transcend generations, ignite dance floors across continents, and become woven into the cultural fabric of a nation. Few songs embody that spirit more vividly than ‘Candela‘. Derived from the Latin word for candle, ‘Candela’ evokes images of flame, passion, and irresistible energy. Throughout the Spanish-speaking world, the word has evolved to symbolize intensity, excitement, and magnetic charisma; qualities that have long defined Cuban music itself. Buena Vista Orchestra embraces every one of those meanings, delivering a version that burns with the soul of the original while introducing contemporary rhythmic textures that propel it confidently into the future.
 
The Buena Vista Orchestra’s world-renowned percussionist Pepe Espinosa says, “‘Candela’ is one of those songs that represents the spirit of Cuban music. It has an incredible energy that makes people want to dance every time we play it. With Buena Vista Orchestra, we wanted to honour its tradition while giving it our own identity by adding some more contemporary rhythmic elements, always respecting the essence of the original. Keeping this music alive is something we’re very proud of, and I think our version of ‘Candela’ reflects that.”
 
That philosophy lies at the heart of Buena Vista Orchestra’s artistic vision. Rather than treating Cuban music as a museum piece, the ensemble approaches it as a living tradition; one that continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural origins. ‘Candela’ captures that delicate balance, preserving the infectious rhythms and joyful spirit that have captivated audiences for decades while showcasing the virtuosity and fresh perspective of today’s premier interpreters of Cuban music.
 
The single serves as another exciting preview of Buena Vista Orchestra’s highly anticipated forthcoming studio album, arriving later this summer. Recorded between Philadelphia and Miami, with additional recording done at Magazine Studios in Miami, FL, the album pairs timeless Cuban rhythms with sophisticated contemporary influences, highlighting the ensemble’s extraordinary musicianship and fearless creativity.
 
Produced by Juan Alvarez and Jason Duarté, with Brian McTear serving as engineer and co-producer at Miner Street Studios, the album brings together a remarkable team behind the scenes. Among its many standout moments is a special appearance by legendary Cuban vocalist Omara Portuondo on the iconic ‘Chan Chan’, creating a powerful connection between Cuban music’s storied past and its vibrant future.
 
Widely regarded as the world’s foremost Cuban music repertory ensemble, Buena Vista Orchestra features an extraordinary collective of musicians whose careers span some of the most influential names in Latin music history, including Buena Vista Social Club, AfroCuban All Stars, Celia Cruz, Omara Portuondo, Chucho Valdés, Willie Colón, Cachao López, Oscar D’León, and many others. Drawing inspiration from the architects of Cuban music itself including Benny Moré, Celia Cruz, María Teresa Vera, Dámaso Pérez Prado, Chano Pozo, Arsenio Rodríguez, Miguel Matamoros, Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer, and countless other pioneers; the ensemble celebrates the artists whose innovations shaped the genres that continue to inspire audiences around the world.
 
Presented by SSK Music, a division of The School of Sacred Knowledge, Buena Vista Orchestra honours the rich musical lineage that long predates the Buena Vista Social Club phenomenon. While Buena Vista Social Club helped reintroduce Cuban music to mainstream global audiences in the late 1990s, the traditions it celebrated were built by generations of visionary musicians whose influence continues to resonate today. Rather than looking backward, Buena Vista Orchestra embraces that legacy as a foundation for the future, carrying Cuban music forward for new generations while remaining deeply connected to its authentic roots.
 
Executive producer Steven Machat, who co-founded the groundbreaking World of Music, Arts and Dance (WOMAD) festival with Peter Gabriel in the UK in 1982, has spent more than four decades discovering, championing, and bringing artists from around the world to international audiences. Alongside executive producer Debbie Machat, he has helped shape a project dedicated not only to preserving Cuba’s musical heritage but also ensuring its continued evolution for future generations. For Machat, Buena Vista Orchestra and its forthcoming album represent one of the most meaningful projects of his storied career and an important part of his enduring legacy in advancing world music.
 
Following the release of ‘Candela’, Buena Vista Orchestra continues on an expansive international tour spanning North America, Europe, and Africa. As well as their London shows, their schedule includes further performances at prestigious venues including The Town Hall in New York City, The Wiltern in Los Angeles, The Warfield in San Francisco, House of Blues Chicago, House of Blues Houston, House of Blues New Orleans, and major festivals including the Hammamet Festival in Tunisia and Marseille Summer Festival in France.