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Expectations rise in Cuba ahead of Rolling Stones concert

Xinhua, March 15, 2016 Adjust font size:

The British Embassy in Cuba announced Monday that a week of musical events will be held here, which will culminate with a free Rolling Stones concert, as expectations are rising since the legendary British rock band will give their first ever concert here on March 25.

Tim Cole, British ambassador in Cuba, said that he was "very proud that the Rolling Stones are coming to play to Cuba...I am as excited as anyone that they are coming to play here."

For young Cubans, this is a unique opportunity to witness one of the most important rock bands in history, which formed in London in 1962.

"They are coming to Cuba and all fans of the group, not just the young, are excited, proving that this band appeals to a wide range of generations. This is part of the opening up to the world that Cuba is currently carrying out," said Modesto Diaz, a young Cuban fan.

"This is a great opportunity to see them. We have not had many opportunities to see famous groups of this kind. As a rock musician, this is a big moment," said Michel Alvarez, a Cuban musician and avid Stones fan.

The March 25 show became a reality in late February when the band reached an agreement with Cuban officials. On March 1, the band announced that it would offer a free concert in Cuba and described it as a milestone for its career.

The show, as part of the "Ole Tour" around Latin America in February and March, will take place in Cuba three days after a historic visit by U.S. President Barack Obama.

Following concerts in cities such as Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Rio de Janeiro, Mick Jagger (lead vocals, harmonica), Keith Richards (guitar), Ronnie Wood (guitar) and Charlie Watts (bass) will play such classic rock songs as "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction", "Start Me Up" and "Sympathy For The Devil".

The Rolling Stones is a British rock band formed in London in 1962. Identified with the youthful and rebellious counterculture of the 1960s, the band became popular in the U.S. and was introduced as "The World's Greatest Rock and Roll Band" during its "Golden Age." Endi