Simply Red Cuba! Apr 2026

: The band doubled their horn section and featured classically trained local dancers to create a high-energy "carnival" finale.

: The setlist reimagined classics like "Holding Back the Years," "Fairground," and "Stars" with a distinct Cuban flare, alongside then-new tracks like "Perfect Love" . A Deep Cultural Connection Simply Red Cuba!

: Mick Hucknall specifically praised the Teatro de la Habana for its warm acoustics and historical weight, noting that the sound perfectly suited the band's independent, post-label era. : The band doubled their horn section and

In 2005, Simply Red took their signature blue-eyed soul to Havana for a landmark performance at the historic . This wasn't just another tour stop; it was a deeply immersive cultural exchange where Mick Hucknall and the band connected with local Cuban musicians to blend their soulful sound with vibrant Afro-Cuban rhythms. The Soul of the Performance In 2005, Simply Red took their signature blue-eyed

Behind the scenes, Hucknall explored Havana, noting the city’s resistance to globalization and the "untouched" beauty of its people. One of the most poignant moments involved Mick inviting a young local street musician he met to perform with the band on the grand stage, bridging the gap between international fame and local artistry.

You can dive deeper into this era through the full Cuba! (Live at El Gran Teatro) album on or watch the official documentary on YouTube to see the rehearsals and local interactions.