Daddy Yankee Retires from Music Career and Chooses a Spiritual Path
In a surprising turn of events, reggaeton sensation Daddy Yankee has declared his departure from the music scene to dedicate his life to religion. The 46-year-old Puerto Rican superstar, celebrated for global chart-toppers like “Despacito” and “Gasolina,” shared this life-altering decision with fans during the final performance of his La Última Vuelta (Last Lap) world tour.
“Living a successful life is not the same as living a life with purpose,” expressed Daddy Yankee to the crowd, emphasizing his newfound devotion to faith. “For a long time, I tried to fill an emptiness… that nobody could fill,” he added, attributing his salvation to faith. “That’s why tonight I recognized and am unashamed to tell the world that Jesus lives in me, and that I will live for him.”
This marks a dramatic shift for Daddy Yankee, a prominent figure in the reggaeton genre, known for his sexually charged, street-smart style that emerged in Panama and Puerto Rico in the 1990s. The artist, born Ramón Luis Ayala RodrÃguez, has been a key ambassador for reggaeton, achieving international success with hits like “Barrio Fino,” “Con Calma,” and “Rompe.”
BREAKING: Daddy Yankee is officially retiring from reggaeton to devote his life to Christianity, He hopes to "evangelize the world" and live for Jesus. pic.twitter.com/CZ68Fg3Asm
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) December 6, 2023
Having released his first solo record in 1995, Daddy Yankee became the best-selling Latin artist of the 2000s, collaborating with a diverse range of musicians, including Justin Bieber, Snoop Dogg, Janet Jackson, and the Jonas Brothers. His decision to step away from the music scene coincides with the release of his latest studio album, aptly titled “Legendaddy,” in March, accompanied by his most extensive tour.
As Daddy Yankee bid farewell to the stage at the packed Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, he expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support. Encouraging a spiritual path, he urged fans to “follow Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life.” The poignant moment was accompanied by a symbolic display, as a group of drones flew over the stadium, forming the shape of a cross.
Daddy Yankee joins a lineage of reggaeton stars who have transitioned from the music industry to embrace a life of faith. His decision echoes a growing trend within the genre, exemplified by artists like El General, Héctor El Father, Julio Voltio, and Jomar El Caballo Negro.
Last year, fellow Puerto Rican rapper Farruko also took a similar step, using a Miami concert to apologize for explicit lyrics and openly share his religious convictions.
