Rafael on whether he would play in Urbano music: “You never know”

He is known on both sides of the Atlantic for traditional Latin pop classics such as “Yo Soy Aquel” and “En Carne Viva”. But Raphael, one of Spain's most internationally renowned singers with a career spanning more than six decades, does not rule out the possibility of dabbling in urban music.

“I know it's none of my business, because I don't know how to do anything else. But you never know,” says the 80-year-old artist. “Maybe I'll say, 'I'll try to do this and see what happens.' That's what happened with 'Escándalo' and look how far it's come,” he added of his 1992 Caribbean-flavored hit, which spent 12 weeks in the Advertising sign Hot Latin Songs Chart.

Raphael made these comments this week at the first Hispanic Music Forum in Madrid, presented by the Community of Madrid and supported by Advertising sign, held on Tuesday (March 19) at the WiZink Center in the Spanish capital. He was the star of the Icon panel moderated by Leila Cobo, Advertising sign's Chief Content Officer for Latin/Español.

When Cobo asked him what he thought of Latin urban music, Raphael said that “like all music, there are things that can be saved and things less, there are things that have grace. But I would give him some time, because he is in full swing now,” he continued. “We have to give it time to see where this all ends up.”

And, with his characteristic humor, he answered if he would like to collaborate with an urban artist: “Maybe yes! Maybe someone will call me today!'

During the chat, the Spanish superstar also talked about the moment he knew he was meant to be an artist, the role of songwriter Manuel Alejandro as the “tailor” of his career, the process of going global and why he doesn't intend to retire soon.

“I don't see myself doing anything, with so many things to do and so many theaters and places to go, and so many countries to revisit, where I have been so loved for so long. I prefer to be active,” he said. “So while he's responding, I'm going to sing,” he added, pointing to his vocal chords.

“Obviously I know that someday I'll have to stay home, but the sooner the better. And if it can be when I leave for good, then let me take advantage of the exit,” he added with a laugh. “It's not about wanting more, it's about doing what you love every day.”