The world of Cuban music is mourning the loss of one of its most celebrated figures, Paulo Fernández Gallo, known as Paulo FG, who tragically passed away on the afternoon of March 1, 2025, following a severe traffic accident on the Malecón of Havana. According to reports from various media outlets, the incident occurred at the intersection of Calle 12 and the Malecón, where Paulo's vehicle collided with a bus from Transtur, the Cuban tourism transport company.
Eyewitness accounts and influencer Alexander Otaola provided grim details of the accident, stating, "He was driving and ran the red light when he was struck by the bus at the intersection of Calle 3ra and the Malecón." The impact was devastating, and Paulo was swiftly taken to the Hospital Calixto García, but unfortunately, he did not survive his injuries.
Noted musicians and friends quickly took to social media to express their grief. Alexander Abreu, director of the renowned band Havana D’Primera, posted on Facebook, "Acaba de fallecer Paulo FG. La vida no me va alcanzar para agradecerte. Fuiste y serás el motor impulsor de todo lo que he hecho en mi vida. Ve con Dios y descansa en paz. Eres el mejor de todos. Este golpe me va a dejar secuelas. Te quiero mucho, asere. Luz". His heartfelt tribute encapsulates the immense impact Paulo FG had on his peers and friends.
Adding to the collective sadness, Lázaro Manuel Alonso, a journalist with Televisión Cubana, also confirmed the news, stating, "Lamentamos informar que esta tarde falleció a consecuencia de un accidente de tránsito el destacado músico cubano Paulo Fernández Gallo, nuestro Paulito FG. Condolencias a sus familiares y amigos." These words resonate with the deep sense of loss felt throughout the Cuban music community.
Known for his contributions to the timba and salsa genres, Paulo FG has left behind not only a significant body of work but also much personal legacy. Throughout his career, he fused various musical styles, resulting in hits like 'El bueno soy yo', 'Te deseo suerte', 'Con la conciencia tranquila', and 'Ilusión de papel', which have become staples of Cuban music over the past four decades.
Born on January 11, 1962, Paulo FG began his musical education at the tender age of 18 at the Conservatorio Ignacio Cervantes, initially studying clarinet before transitioning to vocal performance. His breakthrough came when he was discovered by the director Adalberto Álvarez, leading him to perform at prestigious venues and eventually founding his own band, La Élite, which debuted publicly on April 19, 1992, at the Hotel Neptuno.
Paulo FG's musical style was characterized by lively rhythms and clever lyrics, quickly earning him acclaim both nationally and internationally. His debut album, 'Tú no me calculas', released in 1993, was produced by EGREM and the Japanese label Sony, and it solidified his status as one of the top stars in the Cuban music scene.
His influence extended beyond his recorded music; he was also known for his electrifying performances, often leaving audiences enthralled with his energy and charisma. His most recent projects included planning for a European tour to support his latest album, 'Transición', which was scheduled for kick-off this April.
The outpouring of love and respect from fellow artists has been overwhelming. The popular musical duo Buena Fé expressed their condolences, stating, "Hombre y amigo. Elegante y caballero. Le diste alegría a nuestro país y al mundo sin groserías y con respeto por las tradiciones. Gran artista." The words highlight not only his artistic contributions but also his character and impact on society.
Even among younger artists, there was palpable shock and sorrow. Renowned singer Lenier shared memories on Instagram, posting videos of Paulo performing his classic hit 'Te desearé', showcasing his enduring influence on both the older and newer generations of Cuban musicians.
Remarkably, Paulo FG had survived another dangerous car accident years prior, which adds to the tragic irony of his passing. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the hearts of fans who grew up listening to his music and those who adored him as both a remarkable talent and person.
Paulo Fernández Gallo will be remembered not only as one of Cuba's greatest musicians but also as someone who captured the essence of life through his music. His powerful voice and ability to weave the stories of Cuban life through catchy rhythms have made his songs timeless. His presence on stage lit up the arenas where he performed, and now, as the news sinks in, Cuba stands united to honor the legacy of Paulito FG—forever enshrined as a cornerstone of Cuban music.