Katerin Ferrer Llerena is a Cuban saxophonist who performs as part of Cimafunk's energetic ensemble. Her saxophone work contributes to the band's signature fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with funk, jazz, and contemporary sounds.
As for Cimafunk, they've emerged as one of Cuba's most exciting musical exports in recent years. The band is led by Erik Iglesias Rodríguez (who goes by Cimafunk), and their name pays homage to "cimarrones" - enslaved people who escaped to live in free communities in the Americas. The band burst onto the international scene around 2017-2018, drawing attention for their electric live performances and innovative blend of musical styles.
Their sound uniquely combines traditional Cuban music with funk, African rhythms, and contemporary influences. Cimafunk's breakthrough song "Me Voy" became a hit in Cuba and gained international attention. The band has performed at major festivals and venues worldwide, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Their 2021 album "El Alimento" featured collaborations with notable artists including George Clinton, Lupe Fiasco, and CeeLo Green. The album received widespread critical acclaim for its fresh take on funk music through a distinctly Cuban lens. Rolling Stone praised it as one of the best Spanish-language and Portuguese-language albums of 2021.
The band's continued artistic evolution and impact on contemporary Latin music has been recognized with a 2024 Grammy nomination for Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album, further cementing their place in the international music scene.
