The Dead Daisies Rock Cuba – Photo Gallery

In late February, the collective known as the Dead Daisies made history as part of a cultural exchange as guests of the Cuban Ministry of Culture, Cuban Institute of Music and the Cuban Rock Agency. The trip came about following President Obama's deal with Cuba to lift travel and trade restrictions.

The Dead Daisies is a collective that is comprised of guitarist Richard Fortus (Guns N’ Roses, Psychedelic Furs), bassist Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake), keyboardist Dizzy Reed (Guns N’ Roses, Hookers & Blow), guitarist David Lowy (Mink, Red Phoenix) and drummer Brian Tichy (Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol). They were joined on the trip by Darryl Jones (Rolling Stones, Sting, Peter Gabriel), John Corabi (Motley Crue, RATT) and Bernard Fowler (Rolling Stones).

The musicians took part in a number of events and performances, including both electric and acoustic shows. They also used the time to record new music for their upcoming album with producer Ben Grosse.

Check out some amazing photos from the Dead Daisies' trip, along with some testimonials from the musicians themselves below:

Testimonials:

David Lowy: "The week in Cuba was unbelievable, it was one of the best musical experiences of my life. The Cuban people are wonderful and it was a privilege to share the stage with such talented Cuban musicians. Music lives in their hearts and souls; it was an amazing experience and I can’t wait to go back."

Marco Mendoza: "As I walk into my home in L.A., I have to pause for a second and realize what just happened !! I have so much to be grateful for. We live in a world of abundance !! From the minute we hit the ground in Cuba, we were all running in so many directions!! Exciting !! Challenging !! But a Blast!

Magical, heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking!! But he people of Cuba are people of substance driven by passion, love and respect for humanity and the arts!! And sharing the experience with some of the most talented people on the planet was definitely a highlight of my career ! Cant wait to go back!! ADIOS CUBA!! NOS VEMOS PRONTO!! See you Cuba!! We will see you SOON !!"

Dizzy Reed: "Rock and Roll is not dead. It is for sure alive and well and while no one can predict the future of anything including the fate of rock and roll music, we can reflect on the past and share our most recent experiences. So with great enthusiasm and overwhelming emotion I am happy to report to rock and roll fans around the world -- rock and roll in Cuba kicks ass!!! Thank you to everyone in that wonderful country for a fantastic week. Cuba Libre!!!! Your new amigo.......Dizzy Reed."

John Corabi: "Wow, Cuba!!!! I had an amazing time. Every person I met was so fantastic! Whether it be the bartender at the studio or hotel, government people, or the musicians themselves everyone was truly beautiful to us all! All of the musicians I met were so dedicated to what they do, and just LOVE music entirely. I hope to be able to go again to play, and I've already told my wife we MUST go visit together as tourists!!!"

Darryl Jones: "What a blast to have shared such a historic, fun, culture-filled week with you all! To everyone involved onstage and off….YOU ROCK! Love and happiness, Darryl"

Bernard Fowler: "From the time we landed till the time we left we were given so much love. The enthusiasm and just pure joy for the music was infectious. The Cuban spirit is alive and strong and what an honor to share this experience with such talented people. I got Cuba in my blood can't get back soon enough. Rice and black beans anyone? Hell yeah!!!”

Photos of Dead Daisies Trip to Cuba