OAN’s Sophia Flores
11:05 AM – Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Reggaetón music superstar Daddy Yankee, whose real name is Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez, is leaving the mainstream music scene to better focus on his faith.
The 46-year-old singer, who first gained popularity in 2004, made the announcement after ending his farewell tour La Meta (The Goal) on Sunday night in Puerto Rico.
In his message, Daddy Yankee cited a Bible verse in Spanish: “What good will it be for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? -Matthew 16:26”
“My people, this day for me is the most important day of my life. And I want to share it with you because living a life of success is not the same as living a life with purpose,” he stated in Spanish.
“That is why tonight, I recognize, and I am not ashamed to tell the whole world that Jesus lives in me and that I will live for him,” the singer said. “All the tools that I have in my possession such as music, social networks, platforms, a microphone — everything that Jesus gave me — is now for his kingdom. Thank you very much, Puerto Rico, and I hope that you walk with me in this new beginning.”
“To all the people who followed me, follow Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth and the life,” he added. “Just like Jesus, with his mercy, allowed me to travel the world, in your mercy, Father, I hope you allow me to evangelize the world from Puerto Rico. Amen.”
The Reggaetón singer is best known for his hits “Gasolina” and “Despacito.”
Singer Luis Fonsi collaborated with Daddy Yankee in the song “Despacito” back in 2017.
The tune is credited for renewing the popularity of Spanish music in the United States. Fonsi joined Daddy Yankee on his last tour stop and shared a heartfelt message on social media regarding the singer’s departure from the music industry.
“Last night I had the privilege of accompanying, who changed Latin music forever, in his farewell to the stage. It was very emotional to be there with you @daddy_yankee I owe you a lot bro, a lot! Enjoy this well-deserved break, we will continue to enjoy and celebrate your music ALWAYS,” Fonsi wrote.
Additionally, Daddy Yankee will now go back to answering to his birth name, Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez.
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