Bridges of Rhythm: My Journey to Cuba and Beyond

Doc Jones

For over 40 years, I’ve carried a saxophone and a dream—to use jazz not just as a form of expression, but as a bridge between cultures, generations, and nations. My trip to Cuba in 2025 wasn’t just about visiting a new country; it was about experiencing a unique culture

. It was about deepening connections, sparking collaborations, and building something lasting between Arizona, New Orleans, Chicago, and Havana. This book captures that journey and the birth of an international movement grounded in rhythm, respect, and shared heritage.

Chapter 1: Touchdown in Havana

The warm Cuban air wrapped around me like a welcome embrace as I stepped off the plane in Havana. I had dreamed of this journey for years—not just to play music but to build something lasting, something greater than myself.

Waiting just outside the terminal was a bright, passionate young musician named Alex Joy. With a smile and a firm handshake, Alex became the first rhythm in my Cuban song. He made sure I reached my hotel safely, helped me get settled, and offered an energy that reminded me of why I do what I do.

Not long after, my friend Pablo arrived to begin introducing me to his city. A cultural guide, a storyteller, and a brother in spirit, Pablo became my compass in Havana. Our first stop was the final celebration of the Havana Festival—a breathtaking event that wove together color, movement, and soul. I stood in awe as music and dance spilled from the stage and into the streets, proof that Cuba’s artistic pulse still beats strong.

That evening, we dined at the Hotel Nacional, the same place where President Obama once sat. As I looked out over the sea from that iconic patio, I felt history breathing through the palm trees. I wasn’t just a visitor—I was part of something much larger: a mission of music, memory, and international unity.

(Next chapters to follow: Day 2 in Old Havana, School visits, the recording session, creation of the NGO, and reflections.)

At the School of Young Violin Players, I have to become a sponsor of the School and call it the Molina School of Music. From day 3, my friend from Phoenix took me to a very popular Jazz Club where I met some of the best Jazz musicians in Havana. There I got a chance to play with them on Day 4 Pablo my took us on tour of Old Havana there we got to see some of the best vintage Cars ever made in the USA Later on that day I went to a Salsa dance class where I met Liliet and introduce me to a very important person that invited me to dinner the was very special. Day 5 was my day to record one of my songs. Pablo made all the arrangements for the session and secured all the musicians. It was magical. After the Recording session, Pablo dropped me off with my dance teacher, who invited me to see one of her rehearsals for an upcoming concert. Once the class was over, we went to dinner. On my last night, I just stayed in the hotel. Day 6 I was up early and off to the airport.
Pablo Menéndez – A gifted guitarist and bandleader whose work blends Cuban tradition with modern soul

Yasek Manzano

– A brilliant trumpet player and composer who has studied at Juilliard and played with Wynton Marsalis
Bobby Carcassés – A living legend in Cuban jazz and a true pioneer of the genre

Alex Joy- Young Guitarist/Compose on his way to be nationally known one day.
Arturo also recommended I stay at the Melia Cohiba Hotel, a cultural hub where visiting artists and musicians gather. He even sent me a link to confirm it was the right place — you know he’s looking out for me!

But here’s the part that excites me the most: while I’m in Havana, I hope to record a few songs with these musicians. The thought of capturing the rhythms of Afro-Cuban jazz, blending them with my soulful style — that’s the kind of birthday present I could only dream of. Now, I know there are some people who have expressed concern about my trip to Cuba. And I hear you. But I want you to know this: I’m stepping out in faith. I believe God has ordered this journey for me. And I know I’ll be surrounded by love, talent, and people who care — thanks to Arturo and the lifelong friendships I’ve built through music.

And let’s not forget… for those who know me, you already know I’ll be right at home when it comes to dancing Salsa! Trust me, I’ll be putting some miles on the dance floor.

This trip isn’t just a birthday getaway — it’s a new chapter in my lifelong mission to keep jazz alive, vibrant, and global. It’s about connection. It’s about healing. It’s about celebrating life the way I’ve always known best — through the joy of music and the power of rhythm.

So stay tuned. I’ll be sharing music, stories, and memories from what I already know will be a Birthday to remember — and maybe, just maybe, a few surprise tracks from Havana.

With love and gratitude,
Doc Jones