Voces Digital: 7 Songs from Cuba Perfect for Spanish Class

Voces Digital’s Nuestra Historia 2 Unit 4 highlights Cuba’s rich history, language, and culture, exploring how identity is expressed through music and storytelling. From classic son to vibrant salsa, Cuban songs like those by Celia Cruz and Buena Vista Social Club capture the spirit, resilience, and everyday life of the island.

All songs below are in a Roxxem playlist with Spanish lyrics, videos, and interactive activities like slides, worksheets, and games.

1. El Funky - "Patria y Vida"

This powerful song by El Funky is a rallying cry for freedom and change, inspired by the Cuban slogan "Patria y Vida." It’s ideal for teaching vocabulary related to politics, social movements, and expressions of hope and resistance in contemporary Spanish-speaking contexts.

Explore "Patria y Vida" on Roxxem!

2. Orishas - "Cuba Isla Bella"

This iconic song by Orishas pays homage to the beauty and cultural richness of Cuba. It’s perfect for teaching vocabulary related to geography, cultural identity, and descriptive language that captures the spirit of a place.

Explore "Cuba Isla Bella" on Roxxem!

3. Orishas - "Cuba No Se Fue de Mi"

This heartfelt song by Orishas expresses nostalgia and a deep emotional connection to Cuba despite physical distance. It’s great for teaching vocabulary related to emotions, memory, and cultural identity, as well as past tense verbs to share personal stories.

Explore "Cuba No Se Fue de Mi" on Roxxem!

4. Celia Cruz - "Guantanamera"

This classic Cuban song, famously performed by Celia Cruz, celebrates Cuban pride and identity through simple, memorable lyrics. It’s ideal for teaching patriotic vocabulary, the use of the verb ser for descriptions, and cultural expressions.

Explore "Guantanamera" on Roxxem!

5. Buena Vista Social Club - "Chan Chan"

This traditional Cuban son by Buena Vista Social Club tells a story rooted in Cuban rural life with catchy rhythms. It’s great for teaching storytelling vocabulary, the preterite tense, and cultural insights into everyday life.

Explore "Chan Chan" on Roxxem!

6. Celia Cruz - "La Vida Es Un Carnaval"

This upbeat anthem by Celia Cruz encourages embracing life’s challenges with joy and resilience. It’s perfect for teaching positive expressions, imperatives, and vocabulary related to emotions and celebrations.

Explore "La Vida Es Un Carnaval" on Roxxem!

7. Celia Cruz - "Cuando sali de Cuba"

This emotional song reflects the pain and hope of Cuban exile and longing for home. It’s useful for teaching past tense verbs, expressions of nostalgia, and vocabulary about migration and identity.

Explore "Cuando sali de Cuba" on Roxxem!

🟣 Click here for the full Voces Digital curriculum, complete with reading, writing, and discussion activities.
🟠 Click to explore these songs in Roxxem, where you’ll also find Spanish lyrics, music videos, games, and classroom-ready materials for every song featured.