Music legends Buena Vista Social Club became the first Cuban music group to play at the White House in half a century on Thursday.

"Bienvenidos a la Casa Blanca!" proclaimed President Barack Obama in welcoming the Grammy-winning group, who banged out four songs, including the hit "Chan Chan," in a performance in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Jose Cabanas, the newly installed Cuban ambassador to the United States and first in 54 years, was in attendance.

Obama arrived after the last song and said how much he appreciated their music.

"For nearly two decades, this group has been a symbol of the strong bonds between the American and Cuban people -– bonds of friendship and culture and, of course, music," the president said.

"So I just hope they enjoy their stay. And I hope that I look as good as they do in a few years."

Obama said he bought a Buena Vista Social Club CD "around 1998," when the group's international fame exploded.

The invitation to the Cuban group was the latest overture between the two Cold War foes, who have steadily sought to improve relations during Obama's administration after years of animosity.

Buena Vista Social Club -- whose membership has shifted over the years as elders have stepped back or passed on -- are on a global farewell tour under the name Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club.
Source: AFP