MIAMI — For half a century, Willy Chirino’s music has captivated fans across the globe.

“Loving what you do, being lucky enough to survive doing what you love,” Chirino said when asked about the key to his success after 50 years in the industry.

As he celebrates the milestone, Chirino recently welcomed a visit inside his Pinecrest home, where memories of his long career -- including his first Grammy Award -- remain close at hand.

Chirino has come a long way from his childhood in Cuba, where he was forced to flee to the United States. His music has long reflected the struggles and hopes of the Cuban people.

“You talk to any Cuban outside or inside Cuba, they say do whatever you need to do and set us free,” Chirino said.

Many of his songs highlight life on the island and the dream of freedom.

He recently revived “La Habana D.C.,” a track that expresses a desire for a prosperous Cuba. Another song, “Ya Viene Llegando,” is autobiographical and reflects his belief that a free day is coming for the country.

“Now, more than ever,” Chirino said when asked whether he believes that day will arrive. “The struggle for Cuban freedom has been a rollercoaster. Sometimes you feel better, sometimes you feel really depressed.”

Chirino will mark the milestone on March 21 with a historic concert in Fort Myers.

“I hope that we have a great concert -- people just enjoy themselves and laugh and cry and dance and just have a ball,” he said.

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