On a picturesque day in Curaçao, with its stunning ocean vistas and charming colonial architecture adorning the streets, Colombian artist Ryan Castro eagerly delves into the wellsprings that have shaped his artistic persona and life journey. It’s not just another tale of a music sensation on the global stage; rather, it’s an intimate exploration of the locales, individuals, and experiences that served as the muse for his latest album, “Sendé,
” released on May 29. This musical creation stands as a grand ode to the Caribbean region.
In Jan Thiel’s narrow lanes, seated inside a Jeep Wrangler, Castro retraces the paths he once trod as a young teenager balancing odd jobs while nurturing dreams and penning songs. In this instance, Billboard Español had the honor of accompanying him on an immersive escapade across the island. Reflecting on those formative years spent here – where he resided for several seasons due to his mother’s presence – Castro honed his musical style and began garnering recognition back in Medellín. These moments laid down the foundation for the artist he has evolved into today.
Recalling his breakthrough while living on Curaçao, Castro shares, “I think it was time to share my story with everyone… about my life here and how my cultural influences intertwine with my artistry.” The island played a pivotal role in shaping his identity and sound. His sophomore album marks a departure from “
El Cantante del Ghetto
” as he embraces a more vulnerable and romantic facet of himself.
“
Sendé is very personal; it reflects everything I experienced in Curaçao,
” reveals Castro. Enriched with emotion, Caribbean vibes, and dancehall elements – an integral part of his style – this album showcases Castro’s adept fusion of genres like kizomba, afrobeat, reggae intertwined with urban flair. Collaborating with international luminaries such as Shaggy (“Exclusiva”), Peso Pluma (“Un Trío”), Manuel Turizo (“Menos el Cora”), along with local talent Dongo on “Sanka,” which translates to “
unfortunately
” in Papiamento.
Castro elucidates further on this linguistic connection stating that “
‘Sendé’ means feeling good… positive vibes.” This project is not just about star-studded collaborations but an opportunity for listeners to delve into his narrative and connect deeply with cultural underpinnings that have profoundly influenced his artistic vision.
The integration of genres like dancehall, Afrobeat alongside reggae mirrors Curaçao’s rich musical ambiance fueling Castro’s creative process during album production session.“I absorbed so much – rhythms… language… carnivals.. parties… music at beaches…” shared Castro emphasizing how these experiences contributed immensely to shaping ‘Sendé’.
When selecting collaborators like Peso Pluma or Shaggy for tracks like “Un Trío” or “Exclusiva,” respectively — chemistry took precedence over mere popularity for Castro. He believes collaborative efforts should stem from mutual respect between artists culminating in an authentic blend reflecting shared dedication towards their craft.
Ultimately,’Sendé’ aims to transport listeners beachside while illuminating facets of both Curaçaoan culture & Ryan’s essence.“I want them to connectmorewith me- mystyle…my flow…who I am,” says Castro.Welcoming listeners intohis world,thealbum servesasa tribute,reverencefortheinspiration derivedfromCuraçaowhile offeringan invitationto exploreandexperienceitsvibrantmusical heritage.
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