Ryan Castro, a name that resonates with fans of reggaeton and Latin music worldwide, has been making waves with his chart-topping hits and unforgettable performances. With collaborations alongside heavyweights like Peso Pluma, Karol G, and Maluma, Castro’s influence is undeniable. Recently, he took center stage at Karol G’s Madrid Stadium show, mesmerizing thousands of fans on July 22nd. Beyond his stellar performances, Castro is also the creative force behind the official song for Copa America’s Colombian team, “El Ritmo Que Nos Une.” This track, featuring voices from star players Juan Fernando Quintero and Luis Diaz, not only debuted at #37 globally on Spotify but also set a record for the most-streamed song in a single day in Colombia. Additionally, Nike, the legendary leader in fashion and athletic footwear, has announced an exciting new collaboration with acclaimed Colombian urban music star, Ryan Castro. This exclusive capsule of custom designs combines the bold style of “El Cantante del Ghetto” with Nike’s innovative technology, creating a unique opportunity for customization that celebrates the intersection of sports, reggaeton and Colombian culture.
As Castro prepares for his upcoming U.S tour with Blessd in October and the release of the deluxe version of his acclaimed album “El Cantante Del Ghetto,” his career trajectory continues to soar. This album, which achieved remarkable chart positions including #2 on Spotify’s Top Album Global debut chart and #8 in the US, further cemented his status in the music industry. From surprising appearances at Coachella to being highlighted in Rolling Stone’s 2024 Future of Music issue, Ryan Castro is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. In this exclusive interview, Inlove Magazine delves deeper into Castro’s journey, his inspirations, and what lies ahead.
Inlove: Ryan, you recently performed with Karol G at her Madrid Stadium show. How was that experience for you, and how did the crowd react to your collaboration?
Ryan: The experience was unforgettable because it was the first time I sang at a European stadium. This was my third time performing with Karol G on her “Mañana Será Bonito” tour, and each time, I always get the chills. The energy of the crowd is always great!
Inlove: “El Ritmo Que Nos Une” has become a significant anthem for Copa America’s Colombian team. Can you share the creative process behind this track and what it means to you personally?
Ryan: For me, this song was a dream, and it will remain in the hearts of all Colombians. Making a song for the Colombian national team is something every artist aspires to do, especially for me as a soccer fan. Regarding the creative process, the Colombian federation and the team wanted to create a song. They asked the players what rhythm they would like, and several of them mentioned me and my producer, SOG. When we collaborate, we always aim to create a global urban hit, and this time, we wanted to incorporate Colombian folklore into the urban beat. The rest is history!
Inlove: The song “El Ritmo Que Nos Une” broke records for the most-streamed song in a single day in Colombia. What was your reaction when you heard the news?
Ryan: When I heard the news that “El Ritmo Que Nos Une” broke records for the most-streamed song in a single day in Colombia, I was overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude. It’s an incredible feeling to know that something I created resonates so deeply with people. Seeing the support from my fans and audience at a global level is truly humbling, and it motivates me to keep pushing for more and continue making music that connects with others.
Inlove: You’ve collaborated with major artists like Peso Pluma, Maluma, and Karol G. How do these collaborations influence your music and personal growth as an artist?
Ryan: For me, it was a dream to collaborate with these artists who, aside from being global stars, are friends and family. I have also collaborated with other iconic artists such as Arcangel, Yandel, and Zion, who are also included on my album. They are the pioneers of Reggaeton and were artists I grew up listening to. They inspired me to make my album, ‘El Cantante Del Ghetto.’
Inlove: Your album “El Cantante Del Ghetto” debuted at impressive positions on various charts. What inspired this album, and what message do you hope to convey through it?
Ryan: El Cantante Del Ghetto is a personal tribute to my roots, humble upbringing, and the dynamic community of my hometown. It reflects my nickname, which resonates with my authenticity and connection. I found inspiration in a place where most see little creativity, hope, or a future. Musically, it’s a collection of 18 tracks woven together with elements of classic Reggaeton, dancehall, and trap—genres that have shaped my career from street busking to becoming the global sensation I am today.
Inlove: As you gear up for your U.S. tour with Blessd in October, what can fans expect from your live performances?
Ryan: Fans can expect a dynamic similar to the joint concert we did in Colombia in 2022, where I started off with my set, followed by Blessd, and then we finished with both of us singing our several collabs together. For this U.S. tour, our fans can also expect special guests!
Inlove: Your appearance at Coachella, including a viral moment with Lauryn Hill, was a highlight for many. Can you tell us more about those experiences and how they have impacted your career?
Ryan: These experiences make me feel thankful and that I am succeeding in my career. Having the opportunity to perform at Coachella with Peso Pluma and Ludmilla takes me back to my beginnings, where I reflect on all the amazing things I’ve accomplished since then. Honestly, performing on a bus is a much more difficult stage than Coachella. As for my moment with Lauryn Hill, it is one I will forever cherish. She is truly an icon!
Inlove: Rolling Stone named you in their 2024 Future of Music issue. What does this recognition mean to you, and how do you see the future of your music evolving?
Ryan: Being highlighted as one of Rolling Stone’s 2024 Future of Music artists is a huge honor for me. This recognition means that all the effort, passion, and dedication I’ve put into my career are being acknowledged on a global level. I’m always looking to go beyond my comfort zone, like when I created “Mujeriego,” a merengue hit that showed my versatile and explorative side. To me, that represents the future of my music—never limiting myself, but exploring different rhythms, sounds, and collaborations.
Inlove: Looking back at your journey, what has been the most challenging moment for you, and how did you overcome it to reach where you are today?
Ryan: The most challenging moment for me was the beginning of my career when I would sing on buses to make a living. People would be on their way to work and wouldn’t listen to me. They didn’t know my songs and weren’t interested in seeing an artist like me, but I really enjoyed it. It was a lesson in struggle, hard work, and the journey of a dreamer. I think it prepared me to be a go-getter and to never give up.
Inlove: As our final question, we would like to ask our signature question that we pose to all our talent: What does being “in love” mean to you?
Ryan: Being “in love” to me means embracing every moment of the journey, especially the uncomfortable ones. It’s about falling in love with the process of growth, the challenges, and the uncertainties that come with pursuing a career in music. I’ve learned that anything is possible when you do what you love. Every obstacle becomes an opportunity to learn, and every step forward, no matter how small, feels like a victory. I’m constantly evolving, pushing myself beyond my comfort zone—and I love that.
Ryan Castro’s ascent in the music world is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion. From breaking streaming records to collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry, his journey is both inspiring and exhilarating. As he continues to push boundaries and connect with audiences globally, there’s no doubt that Ryan Castro’s influence will only grow stronger. Stay tuned to witness more milestones from this remarkable artist, as he continues to redefine the landscape of Latin music.
Words by Elle Taylor
