MIAMI — Last year, the renowned Puerto Rican artist Rauw Alejandro soared into outer space with his unexpected release “Playa Saturno,” which served as a companion to his 2022 album “Saturno.” This latest work enhanced his signature reggaeton style, infused with R&B influences within a unique extraterrestrial concept. Now, just a year later, Alejandro has embarked on a different musical direction, drawing from the vibrant sounds and aesthetic of ’60s and ’70s Nuyorican culture, while still innovating within familiar genres to produce fresh and exciting music.
His upcoming fifth studio album, titled “Cosa Nuestra,” takes inspiration from a classic 1969 album by Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe. Set to be released on Friday, the album seamlessly blends traditional Puerto Rican musical elements like salsa and merengue with contemporary genres such as reggaeton. The album is enriched by clever samples, including a nod to Frankie Ruiz’s “Tú Con Él” and features collaborations with industry heavyweights like Pharrell Williams, Bad Bunny, and Feid.
For this project, Alejandro has devised a character named “Raúl Alejandro,” a homage to both his father and the history of Puerto Rican migration to New York. In a recent bilingual interview, he shared insights into this new chapter of his career, both as an artist and an individual. “I’m genuinely delighted,” Alejandro expressed regarding his growth. “This marks a new phase in my career, reflecting how much I’ve advanced as a producer, artist, and person. It’s like the entire journey of my career condensed into one project.”
When asked about the influence of Carolina, Puerto Rico — often considered the heart of reggaeton — Alejandro highlighted how Puerto Rican culture permeates global music history. He expressed pride in his heritage, noting, “Puerto Rico is woven into every aspect of music history. You can trace our presence back to the salsa scene and the Fania All-Stars. Reggaeton originated in Carolina, and it’s a special title to hold.” He further explained how his explorations in New York have rectified his music while keeping his Puerto Rican identity at the forefront.
Alejandro acknowledged that his cultural pride motivated him to delve back into his roots for this album. “Salsa is a world I hadn’t fully embraced yet. As I create new projects, I reflect on what I’ve achieved and what lies ahead,” he stated. “This project carries a lot of salsa and African influences, bringing in live instruments like the cuatro, Puerto Rican guitar, maraca, guiro, and conga, uniquely blended with digital elements. It’s fresh, rich, and ideal for dancing.”
Collaborating with Pharrell Williams, who produced and contributed to the track “Committed,” was a significant milestone for Alejandro. Their creative process spanned from New York to Paris, resulting in a song that stands out on the album. Alejandro recalled, “Pharrell penned the hook and encouraged me to sing it in English for the first time. This was a challenge, but I embraced it, adding my own Spanish verse to fuse our ideas.” He praised Pharrell as an influential figure in his life and hinted at more collaborations to come.
Reflecting on the character he created for this album, Alejandro revealed his long-standing appreciation for classic styles. “I’ve always enjoyed looking sharp in a suit,” he shared. “At 31, I feel young at heart but with an old soul, influenced by the vibrant energy of New York and the rich, stylish heritage of Puerto Rico.” He emphasized how personal style plays a crucial role in artistic expression.
Alejandro, along with other notable Puerto Rican artists, has utilized their platforms to address pressing issues affecting their homeland. “Puerto Rico is my pride and responsibility. As a citizen, I will always advocate for my rights and spread positivity, setting a good example for future generations,” he affirmed. He recognized that while each artist communicates their messages uniquely, the collective intention remains to advocate for meaningful change and support for their island.