Erik Alejandro Iglesias Rodríguez, known professionally as Cimafunk, is a Grammy-nominated Cuban musician who has made significant strides in the music industry by blending funk, hip hop, and Afro-Caribbean sounds. After initially pursuing a medical career, he shifted his focus to music in 2010, moving to Havana where he honed his skills as a session arranger and producer for notable Cuban artists such as Raúl Paz and Liuba María Hevia. His time with the band Interactivo from 2014 to 2016 further enriched his musical journey, allowing him to collaborate with some of the most talented musicians in Cuba.
In 2017, Cimafunk self-released his debut album, Terapia, which showcased his unique fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with modern funk and hip-hop influences. The following year, he gained recognition as one of Billboard’s “10 Latin Artists to Watch in 2019” after the release of his single “Me Voy.” His high-energy performances and innovative sound captivated audiences during a successful tour across the United States and Europe, solidifying his status as a rising star in the Latin music scene.
Cimafunk continued to build on his success during the COVID-19 pandemic by releasing several singles and the EP Cun Cun Prá. In October 2021, he released his sophomore album, El Alimento, which featured collaborations with music legends such as George Clinton and CeeLo Green. The album received critical acclaim, being named one of the best albums of the year by both Rolling Stone and NPR, and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album.
With his third album, Pa’ Tu Cuerpa, set to release in August 2024, Cimafunk is poised to further expand his musical horizons. His innovative approach to music, characterized by a vibrant mix of genres and cultural influences, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary Latin music.
