From Corridos to Global Charts: The Evolution of Regional Mexican Music and the Appeal of Blending Tradition with Pop, Rap, and Other Genres

Regional Mexican music is no longer just a local sound — it has officially become a global movement. Over the past decade, Latin music has exploded worldwide, and Mexican artists have played a huge role in leading that growth. From sold-out arenas and streaming charts to major award shows and international collaborations, artists from Mexico are bringing traditional sounds like corridos, banda, norteño, mariachi, and rancheras to a whole new generation of fans around the world.

Artists like Peso Pluma, Grupo Frontera, Fuerza Regida, Natanael Cano, and Xavi are helping redefine what Regional Mexican music sounds like today. Instead of sticking strictly to traditional styles, many of these artists are blending Mexican roots with Hip-Hop, trap, reggaeton, Pop, and R&B influences. The result is a fresh sound that connects with younger audiences while still honoring Mexican culture and storytelling traditions.

One of the biggest turning points for the genre came when Ella Baila Sola by Eslabon Armado and Peso Pluma became a global hit and climbed to the top of Billboard’s worldwide charts. The success of the song introduced millions of new listeners to corridos and Regional Mexican music. Industry experts say Peso Pluma helped push the genre into the mainstream spotlight and opened doors for many new artists coming behind him.

Collaborations have also helped Regional Mexican music reach international audiences faster than ever before. Artists like Bad Bunny, Bizarrap, and even Snoop Dogg have worked with Mexican artists, blending cultures and fanbases together. These cross-genre collaborations are helping create a completely new lane in global music where traditional instruments like trumpets, guitars, and accordions mix with heavy bass, rap flows, and modern production.

Music experts say part of what makes Regional Mexican music so powerful is its authenticity. Even while artists experiment with newer sounds, they continue telling real-life stories connected to culture, family, struggle, pride, and identity. Fans across the United States, especially in states like Texas and California, continue embracing the music because it reflects both their heritage and modern lifestyle.

The rise of Regional Mexican music also reflects the growing global influence of Latino culture overall. Artists like Karol G, Bad Bunny, and Natalia Lafourcade continue helping Latin music dominate worldwide charts and major festivals. Now, Regional Mexican music is becoming one of the biggest driving forces in that movement.

As the genre continues evolving, one thing is clear: Mexican music is no longer just crossing borders — it’s helping shape the future of global music culture.

Hip-Hop legend Scarface is speaking out after controversy erupted online surrounding Drake and the rollout of his new album ICEMAN. Social media conversations exploded after some fans connected the album title to ICE, the United States immigration enforcement agency that has faced criticism under the current political climate. The controversy intensified after a social media account connected to the White House reportedly used imagery inspired by Drake’s album artwork in a MAGA-themed promotional post.

According to reports, the edited image featured the famous glove artwork from Drake’s ICEMAN cover redesigned with a diamond-covered MAGA chain. Scarface reportedly reacted strongly online, posting and later deleting an Instagram message criticizing the imagery and the political symbolism tied to it. The Houston rap icon questioned the use of certain hand gestures shown in the post, suggesting the imagery carried controversial meanings connected to extremist symbolism.

While social media quickly began debating the situation, Drake himself has not publicly responded to the White House-related controversy at this time. Many fans pointed out that the Toronto superstar has never openly aligned himself with political movements connected to MAGA or conservative ideology, despite online speculation over the years regarding some of his friendships and associations within entertainment and streaming culture.

Ironically, some listeners also pointed out lyrics on Drake’s ICEMAN track “Ran To Atlanta,” where the rapper appeared to distance himself from the ICE agency directly. In the song, Drake raps, “When I tell you dip ‘cause it’s Ice time… it ain’t the fake feds,” leading some fans to argue that the album title may have been misunderstood from the beginning.

The situation highlights how quickly music, politics, and social media can collide in today’s entertainment world. As Drake’s ICEMAN rollout continues dominating headlines and streaming charts, the debate surrounding the album’s imagery and political interpretation has become another major talking point in Hip-Hop culture. Meanwhile, fans continue focusing on the music itself as Drake’s latest project remains one of the most discussed releases of the year.

The new Spanish-language version arrives while Bruno is currently in the middle of his record-breaking global headlining run

Global music superstar Bruno Mars is embracing his Latin roots once again with the release of “Lo Arriesgo Todo,” the Spanish-language version of his hit single “Risk It All.” The Grammy-winning artist officially dropped the new version as fans around the world continue celebrating what has already become one of the biggest musical eras of his career.

The release comes during Bruno Mars’ massive worldwide “The Romantic Tour,” which continues selling out arenas across the globe. The song is also featured on his chart-topping album The Romantic, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and became the biggest opening release of Bruno’s career. The project is currently dominating streaming platforms including Spotify and Apple Music, where it continues ranking among the top albums worldwide.

“Lo Arriesgo Todo” keeps the emotional sound and cinematic production of the original track while adding a fresh Latin flavor aimed at connecting even deeper with Spanish-speaking audiences. Fans have praised Bruno for naturally blending Pop, R&B, and Latin influences into the song without losing the emotion that made “Risk It All” such a global hit. The single is also being released in a special seven-inch vinyl edition, giving collectors another must-have Bruno Mars release.

The music video for “Risk It All” has also sparked major conversation online due to its strong tribute to Mexican and Latino culture. In the visual, Bruno Mars appears wearing a white suit and traditional charro hat inside a Mexican-style church while blending mariachi-inspired instrumentation with modern Pop production. Trumpets, guitars, and cultural imagery throughout the video celebrate Latin music traditions while introducing Bruno’s sound to an even broader audience.

Meanwhile, Bruno Mars continues breaking records across the music industry. His album The Romantic produced another huge hit with “I Just Might,” which became his 10th Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single. “Risk It All” also topped the Billboard Global 200 chart and streaming rankings worldwide, further proving Bruno’s continued dominance in music.

As artists continue exploring multilingual music releases, Bruno Mars’ latest move shows how global music continues bringing cultures together. With “Lo Arriesgo Todo,” Bruno once again proves he can connect with audiences worldwide while honoring the sounds and traditions that inspire him.

Hip-Hop fans and sneakerheads may want to get ready because the legendary G-Unit and Reebok sneaker collaboration is reportedly making a comeback. During a recent appearance on The Real Report podcast, Tony Yayo revealed that the iconic G-Unit sneakers are returning to stores, bringing back one of the most memorable Hip-Hop fashion partnerships of the early 2000s.

The original G-Unit and Reebok deal launched in 2003 at the height of 50 Cent and G-Unit’s dominance in music and street culture. The collection included popular models like the G6, G XT, runners, boots, and women’s editions that became must-have sneakers during the mixtape and DVD era of Hip-Hop. Reports now suggest retailers have already been shown the upcoming release, with a possible launch happening later this summer.

However, it looks like Tony Yayo may have shared the news a little earlier than planned. In a viral social media clip, 50 Cent reacted to Yayo’s announcement while riding in a car, jokingly expressing frustration over the reveal. “I can’t tell Yayo nothing,” Fif said with an annoyed but playful expression after watching the interview clip. Fans online quickly laughed at the moment, and Yayo himself responded with crying-laughing emojis, showing there’s no serious tension between the longtime friends.

The G-Unit brand remains one of Hip-Hop’s most influential crews nearly 25 years after its formation. Founded in 1999 by 50 Cent, Tony Yayo, and Lloyd Banks, the group helped shape the mixtape era and dominated music, fashion, and entertainment throughout the early-to-mid 2000s. From platinum albums and rap feuds to business ventures and brand partnerships, G-Unit became a cultural movement far beyond music.

Even today, G-Unit’s legacy continues to make headlines. Former member The Game recently referenced his longtime beef with 50 Cent during a New York club appearance, while Tony Yayo continues speaking openly about the crew’s history and past rivalries. Now, with the possible return of the classic G-Unit Reeboks, fans may soon get another piece of early 2000s Hip-Hop culture back on store shelves.

The platform is looking back at 20 years of streaming numbers

Streaming giant Spotify is celebrating two decades of music streaming by revealing the most-streamed artists, albums, and songs in the platform’s history — and the results show just how much global music culture has changed over the years. From Pop and Hip-Hop to Latin music and Afrobeats, the list reflects the artists and sounds that have dominated playlists, parties, workouts, road trips, and everyday life around the world.

Florida rapper Kodak Black is once again dealing with major legal challenges as the Hip-Hop star faces multiple criminal cases in Broward County, Florida. According to reports, Kodak turned himself in to authorities Friday related to fleeing and eluding charges connected to an incident that allegedly took place earlier this year. After appearing in court, the rapper posted bond and was later released while awaiting future court proceedings.

Authorities claim the February incident began during a traffic stop involving Kodak Black’s pink Jeep Grand Cherokee, which was allegedly blocking traffic. Police say the rapper attempted to avoid officers by jumping into another vehicle and driving away while officers were trying to conduct the stop. He also faces allegations of non-violent resistance during the encounter. The judge reportedly set his bond at $3,500 and ordered conditions including no possession of firearms, weapons, or ammunition while the case remains active.

Kodak Black’s attorney, Bradford Cohen, strongly criticized the arrest and investigation, suggesting the rapper continues to be unfairly targeted by law enforcement. Cohen reportedly stated that the case took several months to investigate and called the arrest “weak” and unnecessary. The attorney has consistently defended Kodak publicly over the years, arguing that many of the rapper’s legal situations are blown out of proportion.

The legal problems do not stop there for Kodak Black. The rapper is also currently fighting a separate drug trafficking case after authorities allegedly discovered MDMA inside his vehicle during another recent arrest. Reports state the amount allegedly found exceeded Florida’s trafficking threshold, leading to more serious felony charges. Kodak has pleaded not guilty in the case and reportedly posted a $75,000 bond while agreeing to strict release conditions, including no illegal drugs, no contact with certain associates, and no return to the alleged scene connected to the investigation.

Despite the ongoing legal battles, Kodak Black continues trying to focus on music and his career. Fans online remain divided, with some supporting the rapper and others expressing concern over the repeated controversies surrounding him. As court dates approach in both cases, the South Florida rapper faces an uncertain road ahead while continuing to remain one of Hip-Hop’s most talked-about artists.

Latin music superstar Karol G is making history once again as she prepares to receive the prestigious International Artist Award of Excellence at the 52nd American Music Awards. The honor has not been awarded since 2009, when music legend Whitney Houston received the recognition. The award celebrates artists whose music and cultural influence have impacted audiences worldwide, placing Karol G among an elite group of global icons including Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and Aerosmith.

The announcement comes during one of the biggest moments of Karol G’s career. Earlier this year, the Colombian superstar became the first Latina artist ever to headline the famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, delivering a performance that celebrated Latin culture and music on one of the world’s biggest festival stages. Fans and critics praised her energy, stage production, and emotional message to the Latino community during her historic appearance.

Karol G continues to dominate globally with her “Viajando Por El Mundo Tropitour,” which became an instant success after selling more than 2 million tickets in just four days. Due to overwhelming demand, the tour expanded from 39 dates to 63 shows worldwide, with multiple cities adding second and third performances. The tour supports her hit 2025 album Tropicoqueta, which also earned three American Music Award nominations, including Best Latin Album.

The numbers behind Karol G’s success are massive. She has accumulated more than 128 billion career streams and over 310 RIAA Platinum certifications in the United States. Her groundbreaking album MAÑANA SERÁ BONITO became the first Spanish-language album by a female artist to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The accompanying world tour grossed more than $300 million and sold over 2.3 million tickets globally, further proving her status as one of the biggest artists in music today.

This year’s American Music Awards will be hosted by Queen Latifah and broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. The star-studded lineup already includes performances from Maluma, Keith Urban, Teddy Swims, Twenty One Pilots, and more. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift leads this year’s nominations with eight total nods as music fans around the world prepare for one of entertainment’s biggest nights.

43-song across 'Iceman,' 'Habibti,' and 'Maid of Honour'

Canadian rap superstar Drake shocked fans worldwide Friday night after officially launching not one, but three new projects at the same time. During the latest episode of his livestream series “Iceman,” Drake revealed the surprise release of Iceman, Habibti, and Maid of Honour, delivering a massive 43-song collection that instantly took over social media and streaming platforms. The release marks Drake’s first solo full-length projects since 2023’s For All the Dogs and follows his 2025 collaboration album with PartyNextDoor, $ome $exy $ongs 4 U.

The livestream event started Thursday night on Drake’s YouTube channel with dramatic visuals of his hometown Toronto, featuring cinematic shots of the famous CN Tower and a dark, icy atmosphere that matched the mood of the rollout. Drake opened the night with the emotional track “Make Them Cry,” where he reflected on personal struggles, including his father’s cancer diagnosis. The stream quickly shifted into a full entertainment experience featuring music videos, comedy scenes, animated visuals, and surprise celebrity appearances.

One of the most talked-about moments came when media personality DJ Akademiks appeared during the livestream defending Drake against critics and online hate. Fans also reacted to surreal visuals featuring comedian Shane Gillis riding in a police car while Drake’s son Adonis sat behind the wheel. Throughout the videos, Drake leaned heavily into cinematic storytelling with snowy landscapes, mysterious scenes, and symbolic imagery tied to his ongoing rap battles and public controversies.

Musically, Drake didn’t hold back. Several songs appeared to take shots at longtime rival Kendrick Lamar while also addressing criticism surrounding streaming numbers, industry politics, and his place in Hip-Hop culture. Fans quickly pointed out lyrics that seemed aimed at multiple artists and public figures, including possible jabs at DJ Khaled. The albums also featured collaborations and appearances from artists like Future, Central Cee, and rising artist Molly Santana.

With three projects dropping simultaneously, Drake once again proved why he remains one of the biggest names in music. Fans are already calling the Iceman rollout one of the wildest and most creative album launches of the streaming era. Whether listeners love him or criticize him, Drake continues to dominate conversations in Hip-Hop and entertainment — and the world is definitely watching.

Rumors are heating up around the FIFA World Cup 2026 Halftime Show, and global superstar Shakira is reportedly set to co-headline the historic event. The performance would mark the first-ever official halftime show in FIFA World Cup history, bringing together music, culture, and the world’s biggest sporting stage. Fans across the globe are already buzzing with excitement as anticipation builds for what could become one of the most watched entertainment events ever.

Shakira has long been connected to FIFA and international soccer culture. From her iconic World Cup anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” to electrifying performances at past tournaments, she has become one of the most recognizable voices tied to the sport. Her return to the World Cup spotlight feels like the perfect way to launch a new era of halftime entertainment for FIFA 2026.

While FIFA has not officially confirmed the full lineup, speculation continues to grow about who else may join Shakira on stage. Industry insiders and fans are mentioning names like Bad Bunny, Drake, Karol G, and Burna Boy as possible performers. With the tournament taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, many expect the show to highlight multicultural music styles including Latin, Hip-Hop, Afro-beats, and Pop.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is already expected to break records with expanded teams, larger audiences, and massive global attention. Adding a halftime show similar to the Super Bowl could elevate the entertainment factor even more and attract millions of additional viewers. Fans are now waiting to see which artists will officially join Shakira for a performance that could become one of the defining moments in sports and music history.

Last night in West Hollywood, the legendary Dave Chappelle hit the stage at The Comedy Store—and surprised fans by bringing out none other than Kanye West ????????

Chappelle has always stood solid behind Ye, even during his most controversial moments. Known for speaking his mind and pushing boundaries, Chappelle continues to show support for the artist while many in the public are still divided.

Right now, Kanye is making moves on what looks like a comeback trail. His latest project “Bully” saw moderate success, and his recent two-night showcase at SoFi Stadium celebrated his career and impact on the culture ????

???? Up next, Ye is preparing for a European run—despite being banned in the UK, he’s still booking shows across other countries ready to welcome him back.

Back in the U.S., fans got a rare public appearance when he stepped out during Chappelle’s set—and according to reports, the crowd gave him a standing ovation ????

Even with the support, Ye’s journey hasn’t been easy. Over the years, controversy—from politics to public statements—has caused many fans to distance themselves. While some are open to his return, others are still not convinced.

???? One thing’s for sure—Kanye West remains one of the most unpredictable figures in hip-hop. Whether this comeback continues strong or takes another turn… the world is watching.

Stay locked in for more updates on your favorite artists right here on:
???? 97.3 FM THE HEAT ????

#TheHeat973 #HipHopNews #KanyeWest #DaveChappelle #HipHopCulture #RadioVibes

The internet practically exploded on Wednesday, April 1, when news broke that Pooh Shiesty had been scooped back into custody—this time under allegations so outrageous that half the timeline thought it was an April Fools’ joke gone too far.

According to officials, the Memphis rapper is accused of participating in what sounds like the plot of a chaotic straight-to-streaming action movie: the alleged kidnapping and robbery of none other than Gucci Mane—his own label boss. And apparently, he didn’t roll solo. Authorities say he pulled up with eight accomplices, all allegedly armed, like they were auditioning for the next Fast & Furious installment.

During a Department of Justice press conference, officials claimed one victim was held at gunpoint and pressured to sign a release from their 1017 Global Music contract. The alleged incident went down in Dallas back on January 10, and now Shiesty is sitting in custody there while the internet tries to process what it just heard.

To make things even more surreal, one of the alleged co-conspirators is reportedly Shiesty’s own father, who was arrested in Memphis. If convicted, everyone involved could be staring down a life sentence.

For now, these are still allegations—but that hasn’t stopped fans from spiraling into confusion, disappointment, and disbelief. After all, Shiesty just got home last October after serving three years for a gun charge. His home detention rules were crystal clear: no new crimes, no firearms. So hearing he’s now tied to an alleged armed kidnapping of Gucci Mane has fans rubbing their temples.

Under Kurrco’s post about the DOJ’s claims, one fan summed up the collective mood: “This is actually insane.” Another added, “Bro just got out and now it’s straight back to the slammer.”

A third fan took a more philosophical route, saying, “This is what hip hop glorifies. He lived by his own words and now the consequences are here.”

Meanwhile, YSL affiliate Lil Woody chimed in with a somber message on social media. His tone was less “joke of the day” and more “big brother trying to save you from yourself.” He wrote about pride, ego, and the dangerous cycle artists fall into, reminding everyone, “This ain’t Grand Theft Auto… This our real life.”

And honestly, that line alone had half the internet staring into space.

J. Cole‘s new album The Fall-Off is finally here — and it contains a particularly powerful song written from the perspectives of two of hip-hop’s biggest icons.

On “What If,” the Dreamville star imagines a world in which 2Pac and Biggie buried the hatchet, diffusing the infamous East Coast-West Coast beef that tragically claimed both of their lives.

“Perhaps you might’ve felt that I betrayed you or played you / Or thought that I knew about that set-up and coulda saved you,” Cole raps from Biggie’s point of view, referencing ‘Pac’s 1994 Quad Studios shooting that he blamed on the Bad Boy rapper.

“Or maybe that made you come out on some war shit / East Coast, West Coast, now media’s tryna force it … Well fuck that, n*gga, I’m hurt / I miss my dawg, I ain’t gotta hide / If I hurt you, I apologize.”

Stepping into 2Pac’s shoes, Cole depicts the hurt, paranoia and chaos that plagued his final months before accepting Biggie’s olive branch and forming a truce with his former friend.

“‘Cause tears fillin’ my eyes, your letter helped me understand / The power in love, the choice to be the bigger man / I know shit got outta hand, I’ll take the blame for it / For my mistakes, I couldn’t take you gettin’ slain for it,” he spits over Dr. Dre-esque production from Tae Beast and Beat Butcha.

“For fallin’ victim to ego, vengence, and dollar signs / I wanna say from the heart, ‘I apologize.'”

Billed as J. Cole’s eighth and final album, The Fall-Off is a double-disc effort clocking in at 24 songs, with features from Future, Erykah Badu, Burna Boy, Tems and Petey Pablo.

In addition to Tae Beast and Beat Butcha, production comes from The Alchemist, Boi-1da, T-Minus, Vinylz, Jake One, Carter Lang, Wu10, DZL and J. Cole himself, among others.

Though the North Carolina native doesn’t directly address his controversial decision to bow out of his rap battle with Kendrick Lamar — as many fans were hoping — he does allude to it on “39 Intro,” rapping: “Never in my life did I think I’d see the day / Where n*ggas wanna play with my name, but okay / I’m goin’ back in.”

Elsewhere, Cole reimagines Common‘s classic song “I Used to Love H.E.R.,” penning his own complicated love letter to hip-hop on “I Love Her Again” (which also samples the Chicago MC’s Like Water For Chocolate hit “The Light”).

There are plenty of other samples, interpolations and homages to Cole’s hip-hop heroes throughout The Fall-Off, making the album feel like one big ode to the genre that he holds dear.

The Erykah Badu-assisted “The Villest” blends OutKast‘s “Elevators (Me & You)” hook with a reworked version of Mobb Deep‘s “The Realest” beat; “Life Sentence” borrows the chorus from DMX‘s “How’s It Goin’ Down”; and “Poor Thang” samples Boosie Badazz‘s Southern rap anthem “Set It Off.”

Prior to its release, J. Cole described The Fall-Off as “bring[ing] the concept of my first project [2007’s The Come Up] full circle.”

“Disc [one] tells a story of me returning to my hometown at age 29. A decade after moving to New York, accomplishing what would have seemed impossible to most, I was at a crossroads with the 3 loves of my life; my woman, my craft, and my city,” he wrote on Instagram.

“Disc [two] gives insight into my mindset during a similar trip home, this time as a 39 year old man. Older and a little closer to peace.”

The Chicago rapper joked that he made Taina Williams "sign a Death Row contract."

For Roberto Rosado, better known as La Paciencia, the key to his craft has always been in the name.

With a steady hand and an ear for emotive storytelling, he’s quietly become one of Latin music’s most important producers, all while staying laser-focused on achieving the perfect sound. “What I do in the studio is mix his voice to make sure everything sounds perfect,” La Paciencia tells Billboard Español about his work with Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny.

That voice, an instantly recognizable timbre on Debí Tirar Más Fotos, reached record-breaking heights in 2025. La Paciencia helped Bad Bunny craft an era-defining album that smashed every conceivable barrier, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and Top Latin Albums, staying at the top for multiple weeks.

“Right now, I can’t see myself working with anyone else,” says La Paciencia, referring to his deep connection with the megastar. Long before the groundbreaking moments of Debí Tirar Más Fotos, it was the Vega Baja creator’s work on songs like “Diles,” “Me Acostumbré” and other SoundCloud-era Latin trap gems that first shaped Benito’s initial rise to global stardom. Eleven years later, the producer-artist duo has now grown into a powerhouse, constantly rewriting the rules of what Latin music can be.

The success of the album was not an individual studio effort. While La Paciencia played a crucial role in the creation of the album, other key producers like Tainy, MAG and Big Jay were also hugely fundamental to the process, bringing their expertise to life and helping create a historic masterpiece that broke barriers.

While continuing to elevate Bad Bunny’s music remains paramount, he also hopes to expand his influence as an independent collaborator. “My priority right now is for people to hear a little bit of what I can do as a producer and enjoy it at home or in their car,” he says.

La Paciencia spoke in-depth with Billboard Español.

Congratulations on reaching No. 1 on the year-end Latin Producers chart! Did you expect this recognition, especially with the work you’ve done?

Not at all, honestly. I saw the message they sent me saying I’m the [No. 1 Latin] producer, and I was shocked. Yes, I was part of the album, but there are also great producers on the album like Tainy, MAG, Big Jay, Irizarry, Anthony — a lot of people who contributed so much to the album and made it special. I didn’t think I’d be the one to take it. It was almost like a Christmas gift. I’m grateful for this recognition from Billboard.

We have to talk about the creation of some tracks from the album — for example, “Café con Ron.” What was the creative process behind the song?

One day Benito says to me, “Hey, what if you turn on the mic and we sit down to record?” When we sat down, he sang and showed me the idea. For me, it was super amazing. MAG is the other producer on the track. The whole experience was incredible. And the fact that the track was recorded a year, almost two years, before the album came out, for me, it’s something I carry in my heart — a very special track.

And “Nuevayol” — was it inspired by your trips to New York and seeing the Puerto Rican community? What did you take from that?

Most of the time, we’re in Los Angeles or New York, and yeah, we’ve spent a lot of time in New York. I couldn’t really tell you if it was specifically inspired by the culture or the Puerto Rican community there, but it must’ve taken something from it, because Puerto Rican culture is something else. They’re so proud to be Boricua. And about the Gran Combo track (“Un verano en Nueva York”), he drew some inspiration from that, like we say here, from that musical muse. The video is super beautiful with a great message. It was really nice to create that song from scratch and to see how it went from the beginning to what it became today: New York with an L.

What’s your personal favorite track?

From the moment we went into the studio to work on the track, I listened to what she sang, and I was like, “Wow.” I don’t know if you’ve seen the Spongebob meme where he’s blasting off out of bed, but that’s how I felt every time I heard her [voice]. I don’t know if it did big numbers, but when I’m in the car and that track comes on, it makes me so happy. I enjoy it a lot.

Editor’s note: “Perfumito Nuevo” reached No. 1 on the Latin Airplay chart dated January 3, 2026. The news was published on Tuesday (December 30). This interview took place on Monday (December 29).

Your connection with Bad Bunny has resulted in unforgettable music. How would you describe the vibe in the studio when you’re creating together?

I remember it like it was yesterday. It’s been almost 11 years now working together. We had a lot of mutual friends… so collaborating in the studio just happened. It all came very naturally. Right now, I can’t see myself working with anyone else. He’s my brother. Beyond the personal connection, musically, it’s beautiful to work with him, I find it very special. We spend so much time making music together, whether it’s in the studio or at writing camps. I think his personality makes everything even more special. He’s an amazing person, super smart. When he goes into the studio, he’s focused, he knows exactly what he wants to do, he doesn’t waste time. I really enjoy making music with him. He’s my favorite artist right now.

[Several] members of Benito’s crew are from Vega Baja, like Anthony and DJ Orma. We all knew each other before the music.

A lot of the tracks we started working on aren’t really out there anymore because they were on SoundCloud. If you’re on SoundCloud, you can still listen to them: “Diles,” “Tú No Vives Así,” “Me Acostumbré.” Almost everything he has on there, we worked on together. My tags used to be on those track [covers] back then. “Diles” was one of the first, almost 10 or 11 years ago. We were in the studio not expecting anything, working on it with care and love, and the public loved it — it was crazy. That’s where his career took off, and he continued being the artist he is today.

Tell me about how you got started in music production.

I had a stepdad who had a studio. He didn’t make beats or instrumentals, but he was an executive producer, the one who provided the studio. And when I was a kid, I would always go there to kill time, to keep myself entertained, doing something fun. I really liked recording and mixing vocals. I paid a lot of attention to the dialogue, making sure it sounded super clear. And I ended up really falling in love with it. I can tell you that, since I was a kid, probably around 12 or 13 years old, I was already in the studio watching other artists record.

Who were your musical idols?

I was crazy about Arcángel, he was my No. 1. I really liked Don Omar and Tego Calderón — my stepdad introduced me to him. I still listen to Tego Calderón and think, “That instrumental sounds futuristic for something that came out 15 years ago.”

In English, I liked 50 Cent and Eminem while I was growing up, but I leaned more toward Latin music, and I can tell you it was pretty much the whole [urban Puerto Rican] genre. I used to buy the $5 CDs they sold at Walgreens and would spend all day recording music.

I can tell you that I’m with him about 99.9% of the time. If he wants to record, I’m always on it. What I do in the studio is mix his voice to make sure everything sounds perfect. I record him live so that he has the right tone, so it sounds just like it does on the record, and so people can really appreciate what he does. So yes, my answer is that I’m with him for the whole tour. I’ve been touring with him since 2018, doing the same thing. I really enjoy being on tour.

Besides being on tour, we’re going to do the Super Bowl.

Now that you’ve reached No. 1 on our year-end Latin Producers chart, what’s next for 2026? What’s your personal goal?

I’m not promising anything, but once the tour is over, we’re going to work on a new album. You come into the studio full of energy, knowing that the album [Debí Tirar Más Fotos] was something people really enjoyed. We’re going to work on what’s next so that people can keep enjoying it — the music and Benito as an artist.

If I had to say a goal, I’d say releasing my own music so people can enjoy a bit of what I do as an independent producer with other artists. What I bring to the table with Benito, I want people to see that with other artists too. For example, working with Arcángel, who’s an artist I’ve liked since I was a kid, and collaborating with producers like Tainy or MAG in the studio. My priority right now is for people to hear a little bit of what I can do as a producer and enjoy it at home or in their car.