Meaning: Ruben Blades, a renowned Panamanian musician, actor, and political figure, shared this quote in an interview, reflecting on his experiences and travels to New York. The quote captures a sense of uncertainty regarding the exact timing of his return to the city, highlighting the passage of time and the blurred recollection of specific dates. In addition to the temporal aspect, the quote also hints at the significance of New York as a pivotal location in Blades' life and career.

Ruben Blades' connection to New York is deeply rooted in his artistic journey. In the 1970s, New York City was a vibrant hub for Latin music, particularly salsa, which provided an electrifying backdrop for Blades' burgeoning music career. As a talented singer, songwriter, and musician, he found himself drawn to the city's dynamic music scene, where he would later make a significant impact as a pioneering figure in the genre.

The quote's mention of Miami in 1974 and the subsequent visit to New York reflects the itinerant nature of Blades' early career. During this period, he was likely navigating a whirlwind of performances, recording sessions, and travel, as he sought to establish himself as a prominent artist on the international stage. His recollection of the timeline, albeit somewhat uncertain, underscores the fast-paced and nomadic lifestyle that many musicians experience in their quest for recognition and success.

Furthermore, the quote offers a glimpse into the personal and professional evolution of Ruben Blades. His visits to New York in the mid-1970s coincided with a pivotal moment in the city's cultural and social landscape. The salsa movement was reaching its zenith, with legendary venues such as the Fania All-Stars' Cheetah nightclub and the Palladium Ballroom serving as epicenters of Latin music and dance. Blades' presence in this milieu not only shaped his musical identity but also allowed him to collaborate with influential musicians and immerse himself in the rich tapestry of sounds and rhythms that defined the era.

Beyond the realm of music, New York held broader significance for Ruben Blades. As an artist with a keen social and political consciousness, he was attuned to the city's role as a melting pot of diverse voices and perspectives. The cultural mosaic of New York provided fertile ground for Blades to engage with issues of identity, activism, and social justice, themes that would later permeate his music and activism.

In retrospect, Ruben Blades' recollection of his return to New York in the mid-1970s serves as a poignant marker of a transformative period in his life. The city not only catalyzed his artistic growth but also became a touchstone for his creative expression and advocacy. His experiences in New York, amidst the pulsating rhythms of salsa and the kaleidoscope of urban life, undoubtedly left an indelible imprint on his artistry and worldview.

In conclusion, Ruben Blades' quote encapsulates the fluidity of memory, the dynamism of artistic pursuit, and the profound influence of New York City on his trajectory as a musician and activist. It invites us to contemplate the interplay of time, place, and personal narrative in shaping the artistic odyssey of a cultural luminary.