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Major Lazer Announces Free Performance In Cuba

The first big group to play in the country since the restoration of diplomatic ties with the U.S.

January 12, 2016

The members of Major Lazer are looking to build on their successful 2015—during which their song "Lean On" became the most streamed song in Spotify's history—by becoming the first "major" American group to perform in Cuba since the country's historically frosty relationship with the U.S. thawed last year.

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The show will take place in front of the American embassy on March 6. It's free and open to the public. In addition, a press release promises that "Major Lazer will meet with Cuban music students and young, up-and-coming local DJs that will share the stage with the group."

"For as long as I can remember, Cuba has played an influential role on my love of music," Diplo noted in a statement. "Cuba has such a powerful cultural impact all over the world and for me, especially growing up in Florida, it became one of the biggest cultural centers for music to evolve from." "I was lucky enough to visit Cuba a few years back with my friends Calle 13," he added. "During my four days there my mind was blown by the people, depth of culture and their way of life. Going back to perform in 2016 and to be a part of the culture once again is a huge blessing and I couldn’t be more honored to bring the Major Lazer project there."

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Read FADER's Diplo interview.