Concert by the Afro-Cuban All Stars, led by Juan de Marcos González, pairing Cuba's young musicians with its son legends.
Afro-Cuban All Stars play The Dakota on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 8 PM. The group is led by Juan de Marcos González, who's been the driving force behind the ensemble since it first came together.
If you've heard of the Buena Vista Social Club, you've heard the work of the All Stars. The group emerged from the 1997-1998 sessions that produced A Toda Cuba le Gusta, Rubén González's Introducing Ruben Gonzalez, and the Buena Vista Social Club album itself. Since then, they've released records like Distinto, diferente, Step Forward, and Live in Japan. Their repertoire runs from classic Cuban styles like son and danzón to contemporary dance rhythms like timba, mambo, cha-cha-cha, and salsa, all played by a rotating, multi-generational cast.
González has been at this for a long time. Born in Havana in 1954, he was a founding member of the son revival band Sierra Maestra in 1976, and he later served as the bandleader, musical director, and co-producer for the Buena Vista Social Club. The All Stars continued that work, pairing Cuba's most prodigious young musicians with its senior legends to keep the classic sound of Cuban son alive.
Every week we pick 🏆 the 5 best 🏆 things to do in Minneapolis and send them to your inbox. Just one weekly email, no spam.
By submitting your email, you accept our Privacy Policy
The show is at The Dakota, the jazz club at 1010 Nicollet Mall that's been open since 1985. It's a Twin Cities staple known for world-class music and a chef-driven menu, with a room that holds between 250 and 350 people. The Afro-Cuban All Stars take the stage at 8 PM on Sunday, October 25.
