Gente De Zona & Orishas ‘Patria Y Vida’ – Soundtrack Of An Uprising

The protests in the streets of Cuba chanting for “Libertad” are also chanting “Patria y Vida,” which is why many recognize that the seeds of this uprising were laid down earlier this year with the release of “Patria y Vida,” a collaboration between members of Gente De Zona and Orishas – two Afro-Cuban hip-hop/reggaeton artists who each have escaped the island.

Many of the Cubans who are taking to the streets in unprecedented protests are carrying signs that read “Patria y Vida.” It is the title of the track by the Cuban rappers which translates to — homeland and life.

The title is a play off the communist regime’s decades-old slogan, “patria o muerte” — homeland or death. In strong terms, the song accuses the government of destroying the quality of life in Cuba, a message that quickly found traction with protesters who are demanding change.

“No more lies. My people demand freedom. No more doctrines!” the song says. Calling for people to sing “patria y vida” and start building what we dreamed of, what they destroyed with their hands.”

 Patria y Vida has been a phenomenon since its release this year. The song is a collaboration between a group of Afro-Cuban reggaeton and hip-hop stars based in Miami, such as Yotuel Romero of Orishas, and Alexander Delgado of Gente De Zona, along with rappers Maykel Osorbo and El Funky, who live in Cuba.

“Before the revolution, we had a beautiful Havana; now we have ruins,” he told Billboard in February. “From that point on, I said, ‘I’m not going to be quiet anymore.'”

“It’s over now! And we’re not afraid,” the song declares.

After the song’s release, Cuban authorities arrested Osorbo. His supporters have submitted complaints to the United Nations over his treatment, saying that the government is persecuting him for expressing his views and for helping create the song.