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Legendary Cuban musical ensemble that revived traditional son cubano musicFormed in 1996 through a collaboration between Cuban musicians and American guitarist Ry Cooder, the project revitalized careers of forgotten Cuban music veterans. Their self-titled 1997 album became a global phenomenon, selling over 8 million copies and winning a Grammy. Wim Wenders' 1999 documentary further cemented their legacy.

• The name references an exclusive members-only social club in 1940s Havana that hosted legendary musicians before closing post-revolution
• Core members included Compay Segundo (90 at album release), Ibrahim Ferrer (rediscovered shining shoes), and piano virtuoso Rubén González (playing a battered, untuned piano)
• Recording sessions lasted just 6 days in Havana's EGREM Studios using vintage equipment and spontaneous arrangements
• Tragically, 12 original members died between 1997-2005 including Compay Segundo (2003, age 95) and Ibrahim Ferrer (2005, respiratory failure)
• Surviving member Omara Portuondo continues performing globally, maintaining the ensemble's legacy into the 2020s