How Lomiiel went from working at a Hype shop to Dembow's Breakthrough Star

Lomiiel always knew he had a gift, but it was put to the test just a year ago when he uploaded his debut single, “Que Chevere,” to all streaming platforms. Since then he has been unstoppable.

Inspired by artists like Lil' Baby, Drake, Bad Bunny and El Alfa, Lomiiel hails from La Romana in the Dominican Republic and comes from a Christian family that fully supports his dream. Although making a name for himself in the dembow genre, the young newcomer has already navigated other genres such as trap, drill and reggaeton.

In fact, it was because of his freestyle rapping abilities that he was first discovered while working at a local store called Cuero Macho Boutique.

“I was working in the store of my current manager [Eddy Alexander Florian Rodriguez]and he saw my intention and desire to pursue a music career,” says Lomiiel Advertising sign. “He was the first to see my potential. He was also a music lover, but neither he nor I knew what the music industry was like. However, we started working together and today we represent and succeed as business partners.”

Lomiiel's first viral hit came in the spring with the release of “Hay Lupita,” a song he says connected with people around the world because of its lyrics and flow. With its sped-up drum pattern and carefree energy, “Lupita” — about a girl who looks good and moves her hips to the beat — has amassed nearly a million creations on TikTok and more than 40 million views on YouTube at the time is published. .

In the Advertising sign chart, the sassy tune secured entries on the Hot Latin Songs, Latin Rhythm Airplay, Billboard Global 200 and Global Excl. US charts, currently spending 12 weeks at number one.

As the new face of dembow, Lomiiel assures to bring many new colors and textures to the Dominican urban movement.

“It's something different that was honestly missing from dembow,” he explains. “I know my audience very well and structure myself well for it. That's why Lomiiel, in just nine months, managed to get to where I am today.”

Below, learn more about this month's Latin Artist on the Rise.

Name: Marco Antonio Santana

Age: 20

Featured Song: “Hey Lupita”

Biggest achievement: “Honestly, the success from 'Hay Lupita' opened a lot of doors for me. It took me to markets where few Dominicans have been. I also feel very happy to have bought my house and car.”

What's next: “A lot of collaborations and songs bada– with American and Puerto Rican artists. Expect lots of new music because we're going all out. In about two weeks, I'm thinking of releasing an EP.”