Smithers singer and songwriter Dr. Alex Cuba walked across the stage at UNBC today (Friday) receiving an honorary Doctor of Law degree.
This is his latest accolade, having won several Juno awards, four Latin Grammy Awards, and a Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album in 2022.
After the ceremony, he said receiving the award “feels like music is bigger than hockey in Canada.”
“To have been recognized by people from my neck of the woods, it feels like my own country and feels like if Cuba had done something like this,” he added.
He was joined by former Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price, who also received a Doctor of Law degree.
Prior to moving to Canada, Cuba had looked into pursuing higher education in music, but didn’t because of his asthma.
“I made it to Canada and started to make my craft here because I was never a singer in Cuba. Canada made me sing,” said Cuba.
He added having his studio a few steps from where he lives in Smithers is something he enjoys.
“To have the studio right in front of me, it minimizes the time to go from when the musical idea lands in my mind to the time I record it.”
Another thing he enjoys about his studio is the view of Hudson Bay Mountain right outside the window.
“It keeps inspiring me which is a mystery. I get off the road, get home and within hours I’m humming something,” said Cuba.
Along with the views, he added living in Smithers makes him feel like he’s doing something unique and helped improve his self-confidence.
“I have to say it’s not for everybody because whoever loves the city, hates Smithers and whoever loves small towns hates the city. In my case, I love the silence,” he said.
Today is also the release of his new album “Voces De Mi Familia” or Voices of My Family, which features voices from several of his family members.
With files – Will Peters, My Bulkley Lakes Now
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