Daddy Yankee’s New Mission: Transforming Pop Music After Christian Conversion
Daddy Yankee has smoothly transitioned from a global reggaeton icon, to a prominent figure in Christian ministry. Currently known as DY, the San Juan, Puerto Rico native has dedicated his life to spreading a message of hope and transformation through faith. As of October 2025, he is actively engaged in a spiritual mission, combining his platform with music to create “music with a purpose”.
His new music aims to revolutionize pop culture, and inspire positive change, particularly among youth. In 2022, he announced his retirement from music, culminating in a final concert in December 2023. Declaring his faith in Jesus, he stated, “I am not ashamed to tell the whole world that Jesus lives in me and that I will live for him”.
Daddy Yankee’s New Music Spreads an Abundance of Optimism and Positivity
Since announcing his retirement, Yankee has returned to music with his first new release under the HYBE Latin America label titled, “Sonríele”. Released on July 10, 2025, the upbeat merengue track features a message of resilience and optimism. The song is also the lead single from his upcoming album, Lamento En Baile (Mourning Into Dancing), set for release on October 16, 2025. The album’s title is inspired by Psalm 30, reflecting his spiritual journey.
Additionally, Yankee has released several other spiritually-themed singles, including “Loveo,” “Bailando en la Lluvia,” and “En el Desierto,” which showcases a more reflective and faith-centered persona. His new music continues to emphasize positive messages and personal transformation. His new direction is driven by a desire to transform lives, not just the music industry, emphasizing purpose over commercial success.
Daddy Yankee’s Early Success Defined a Decade
Beginning his music career in the early 1990s, Daddy Yankee made his first major appearance on DJ Playero’s album The Piece-Maker. In 1995, he independently released his debut solo studio album, No Mercy. His follow-up album, El Cangri.com (2002), helped establish his international presence. His breakthrough came with the 2004 album Barrio Fino, which became the top-selling Latin music album of the 2000s. Featuring the global hit “Gasolina,” the album solidified his status as a pioneer of reggaeton, a genre he helped define and popularize.
Daddy Yankee is scheduled to perform at the Billboard Latin Music Awards on October 23, 2025, marking his first televised performance in three years. His new music, including “Sonríele,” has been well-received, with the song already generating significant engagement on social media platforms.
