Two commanding voices in Afro-Cuban music converge with purpose and maturity from Havana, Cuba. Alexander Abreu, internationally respected trumpeter, composer, and leader of Havana D'Primera, joins forces with José Alberto El Ruiseñor, the celebrated sonero whose expressive delivery has defined generations of salsa and son. Their collaboration on “De tu alma, preso” is not a casual duet. It is a meeting of histories, disciplines, and emotional authority.
Alexander Abreu has long been recognized for shaping contemporary timba while honoring Cuba’s rhythmic inheritance. His work blends salsa, jazz harmony, funk accents, and Afro-Cuban percussion with lyrical storytelling that reflects daily Cuban life. As a chronicler of experience, he approaches composition with responsibility. Every arrangement carries weight. Every trumpet phrase speaks with intention.
José Alberto El Ruiseñor brings a different but complementary force. Known for his magnetic voice and interpretive depth, he carries the tradition of Cuban son with elegance and conviction. His phrasing moves effortlessly between tenderness and command, reinforcing his reputation as one of the genre’s enduring figures.
“De tu alma, preso” centers on emotional captivity, not as weakness but as surrender to profound love. The title translates to being imprisoned by another’s soul. The arrangement leans into classic Afro-Cuban structures while maintaining modern clarity. The rhythm section anchors the piece with layered percussion and steady bass, allowing the brass to breathe and respond. Abreu’s trumpet lines are fluid and deliberate, weaving around El Ruiseñor’s vocals rather than overpowering them.
The song’s power lies in its restraint. Instead of theatrical excess, it builds through measured crescendos and nuanced vocal exchanges. There is longing in the melody, but also dignity. Love is portrayed as transformative, capable of humbling even the strongest spirit. The interplay between the two artists mirrors dialogue rather than competition, reflecting mutual respect.
Beyond its immediate impact, “De tu alma, preso” stands as a testament to Havana’s enduring musical legacy. It reinforces how Cuban artists continue evolving without abandoning their foundation. The track speaks to global audiences while remaining rooted in cultural identity.
In a musical climate often driven by speed and surface appeal, this collaboration offers depth. Alexander Abreu and José Alberto El Ruiseñor deliver a composition that honors tradition, explores vulnerability, and affirms the emotional intelligence embedded in Cuban music. It is not just a release. It is a reminder that heritage, when handled with integrity, remains timeless.