In an industry constantly evolving with new music trends, Yandel has chosen to stay true to the genre that made him famous, further proving on his new album why he remains one of the finest artists in the game.
Titled just that – ELYTE (replacing the I with a Y in honor of his stage name) — the Puerto Rican artist presents his eighth solo studio album. The 19-track production is mostly an entire album of reggaetón music, combining the old-school sound with modern elements. Notably, collaborators on the set include Tego Calderon, J Balvin, Feid, Myke Towers, Farruko and Blessd, to name a few.
“I feel deeply blessed and happy that my music has been able to transcend various stages of my career,” says Llandel artist Veguilla Malave. Bulletin board. “I always seek to evolve by staying true to my essence, not losing what defines me, but making sure my music continues to connect with audiences.”
ELYTE followed by Yandel's Resistance (2023), Quien Contra Mi 2 (2020), The One (2019), #Modernize (2017), Dangerous (2015), De Líder a Leyenda (2013) and Quien Contra Mi (2003). Both 2013 and 2015 albums reached No. 1 Bulletin board Chart of Top Latin Albums.
The album's release also comes before Yandel's place in the spotlight 2024 Billboard Latin Music Weekreturning to Miami Beach on October 14-18, with other confirmed artists such as Feid, Young Miko, Gloria Estefan, Alejandro Sanz, Maria Becerra and Peso Pluma, among many others.
Yandel — who is also a finalist at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards for Latin Rhythm Artist, Duo or Group of the Year with Wisin y Yandel — will be joined by Dei V and Roberto Andrade (CEO of Warner Music Latina) for a discussion about the origin and future of the genre. For tickets and more details, visit BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com.
Below, Yandel breaks down five key pieces from ELYTE.
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“Reggaetón Malandro” feat. Tego Calderón
“This is a song by Nesty La Mente Maestra. From the moment I heard it, I immediately connected with it. “Reggaetón Malandro” is the pure essence of the golden age of reggaeton. Working on this song took me back to those moments when music felt raw, authentic and full of energy. Also, working with Tego Calderón on this song was something extraordinary for me. Tego is a great exponent of the beginning of this movement and to be able to work with a legend who left an indelible mark on reggaeton was an honor. Hearing it finished was like reliving that atmosphere, and it filled me with pride to know that we're continuing to contribute to such an important legacy for urban music.”
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“Old School” feat. Farooq
“This song, as the name suggests, talks about how the genre grew while we were growing up in Puerto Rico and that nostalgia is present in every verse. Creating it was a very nice process because we were able to connect with our roots and relive those moments that marked the beginning [of the movement]. Everything sounds good with Farruko and he was the perfect person to share this song with. It turned out spectacular.”
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“Háblame Claro” feat. Fed
Image source: Oscar Mena
“This is a song that Tainy did with Los Icons. From the moment I heard it, I felt it was a hit and would be a defining track for the album. We recorded it in Los Angeles and what I remember most is the incredible energy that flowed in the studio that day. Everything was natural, as if the ideas aligned perfectly. Every time I listen to it, I'm transported back to that moment and the atmosphere that led us to create something that, without a doubt, speaks to both the roots of reggaeton and its evolution.”
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“Puño de Tito”
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“Borracho y Loco” feat. Mike Towers
Image Credit: Courtesy of Imagine It Media
“That was the first single released from the album and working with Myke is really easy because he's a great friend. We have a good sound match and the collaboration happened quickly. It's a happy and wild song like us. I'm very proud of this song.”
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/lists/yandel-elyte-album-essential-tracks/
