‘Patria y Vida’ Set to Be Adapted Into Feature Documentary

The Latin Grammy-winning anthem “Patria y Vida” is going to be adapted into a feature-length documentary. The song, which has been used during anti-government protests in Cuba, won Best Urban Song and Song of the Year at the Latin Grammys ceremony on November 18.

In a statement, singers and songwriters Beatriz Luengo and Yotuel Romero said the planned documentary “will explore how the song—its title a repudiation of the 1950’s Cuban Revolution’s slogan ‘Patria o Muerte’—sparked a movement, which the Cuban government has tried to suppress, and investigate how music has been a catalyst for social change throughout modern history.”

Luengo and Romero also said they “feel privileged” to use a song like “Patria y Vida” to tell the story of Cuba and give strength to a community that is oftentimes oppressed. “We’re hopeful we’ll see change in the future and we’re excited to collaborate with Exile to continue to raise awareness and fight for the people of Cuba; to continue to use our voice in a meaningful way,” they said.

“Patria y Vida” was written by Romero, Luengo, Alexander Delgado, Randy Malcom, Descemer Bueno, and features Cuban musicians like Maykel Osorbo and El Funky.

“We…believe in creating content to inspire Latin Americans to take action to create social change in the world,” said Daniel Eilemberg, president of content at Exile, the producers of the documentary. “We are especially excited at the opportunity to join forces with Bea and Yotuel to produce a documentary about the tremendous power of their song in galvanizing activism to protest the appalling conditions and restrictive political policies in Cuba and the government responsible for them.”