5 Things to Know About the Buena Vista Social Club Album

World Circuit Records released the album in September 1997. It became a global phenomenon that introduced son, bolero, and danzón to millions of new listeners.

Ry Cooder assembled a group of aging Cuban musicians for the sessions. Many of them had not been in a studio for decades.

The album feels like a happy accident. Its success was unexpected, given the musicians’ long absence from recording.

It is a landmark record for Cuban music. The album revived interest in traditional Cuban styles worldwide.

The musicians were mostly older, experienced performers. Their deep knowledge of the genres gave the album authenticity and soul.