"Reggaeton superstar" Daddy Yankee released his new album LAMENTO EN BAILE on the 17th. It is his first studio album in about three years since returning under contract with HYBE Latin America.
LAMENTO EN BAILE contains 19 tracks including the title track El Toque. The songs were written when Daddy Yankee was going through a difficult time, but paradoxically energetic and positive sounds predominate. His creative and artistic resurrection, turning pain into rhythm and reflection into joy, stands out.
The music video for El Toque, filmed in Korea, is also striking and has attracted the attention of global music fans. Daddy Yankee's rhythmic rap and vocals set against the colorful dancheong paintwork and eaves of a Joseon Dynasty palace create a fresh harmony and leave a strong impression.
Daddy Yankee said, "I wanted to show that even in the most difficult moments of life, music can provide healing and inspiration and has the power to celebrate life." He added, "Every track contains the story in my heart. I hope fans can dance with me and feel this journey."
Daddy Yankee is regarded as one of the most successful artists in Latin music. He debuted in 1995 and gained global popularity with reggaeton rhythms, and he helped globalize Latin pop, including topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 16 consecutive weeks in 2017 with Despacito, a collaboration with Luis Fonsi.
After reaching the peak of his career year after year, Daddy Yankee surprised fans by suddenly announcing his retirement in 2023. But in July this year, he teamed up with HYBE Latin America and returned with the single Sonríele, exciting fans.
Under Chairman Bang Si-hyuk's "multi-home, multi-genre" strategy, HYBE is transplanting the K-pop production system into the global music market and expanding its influence. HYBE Latin America was established in 2023, acquired the local label Exile Music, and is working with several local musicians including Daddy Yankee.
HYBE Latin America is also actively running rookie development projects. The reality program selecting a five-member boy group, Santos Bravos, is scheduled to hold its finale concert on Oct. 21 (local time). Through the band audition program Pase a la Fama, which concluded its long run in August, it also discovered promising new artists such as the winning team Musza.
[Photo] HYBE Labels
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