Cuban born with French, Spanish, African and Chinese heritage, CuCu Diamantes came to New York with music in mind. After finishing ‘fine arts’ studies in Havana and Rome, CuCu felt the pull of the Manhattan’s unique rhythm and has been a devotee and contributor ever since.

Shortly after landing on her new “Island”, CuCu teamed with fellow Cuban musician, Juan Carlos Formell and joined his band, Cuba Libre. Traveling in the tight-knit circle of New York’s Latin music community, Diamantes soon met noted composer, producer and musician Andres Levin. Instant chemistry ensued and the two artists began a writing / creative collaboration which led to the development and inception of the band “Yerba Buena.”