Buena Vista Social Club Presents Ibrahim Ferrer

Ferrer made his first solo record in March 1998 with Ry Cooder producing, and Wim Wenders filmed the recording for his documentary. It was released in June 1999 and was one of the ten best-selling Latin albums in the United States that year. It was nominated at the 42nd Grammy Awards, and at the first Latin Grammy Awards in 2000 Ferrer won Best New Artist.

Jon Lusk, reviewing it for fRoots, wrote that it struck a perfect balance between continuity and innovation. He added that Ferrer was said to have hankered to do more boleros throughout his career, and that here his wish was granted in abundance.