Rolling Stones play historic rock concert in Cuba
Veteran British band are the first major international rock act to perform on the island
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Rolling Stones have rocked Cuba with an historic free concert in the island's capital, Havana.
Mick Jagger's band are the first major international rock act to perform on the island, where for decades most Western rock and pop music was forbidden by the communist government.
"We know that years back it was hard to hear our music in Cuba, but here we are playing. I also think the times are changing," Mick Jagger said in Spanish from the stage, drawing a roar of approval from the crowd.
The landmark gig took place at the Ciudad Deportiva, a massive open-air sports complex with a capacity of 450,000.
In a video message released in the days before the concert, the veteran British rockers said: "We've performed in many incredible places, but this concert in Havana is going to be an historic event for us."
During a two-hour set, the band blasted out 18 of their best-known songs, including "You Can't Always Get What You Want", "Start Me Up", "Gimme Shelter", "Honky Tonk Women" and "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction)".
The Rolling Stones' historic Cuban concert took place in the same week Barack Obama became the first US President in 90 years to visit the island.
“After today, I can die," 62-year-old night watchman Joaquin Ortiz told the Associated Press following the concert. "This is like my last wish, seeing the Rolling Stones."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments