Calypso and a Shared Musical World
Slowly, the artist speaks of persistence, noting that songs live through many listeners. Luis Fonsi, the author behind these tunes, keeps expanding his catalog with crowd favorites, intimate ballads, and fresh material. These pieces fuel his concerts and keep audiences engaged. The set prepared for a performance on Monday, August 15, at Plaza de María Pita mirrors his ongoing passion for music and connection with fans.
He says Spain feels like a second home.
I think many artists express that sentiment when they visit a place far from home. For him, the claim rings true in a very literal way. He is married to a Spanish woman, and his children carry both Spanish and Puerto Rican roots. They spend substantial time in Spain, especially when touring or on days off. It is meaningful to work on projects in a place he knows and loves. The kindness he encounters here reinforces a sense of belonging. He understands how challenging success can be in a world full of music and art, and he recognizes the privilege of finding a home in this country. His daily gratitude is part of his ongoing journey.
Did his first album release in 1998 make him dizzy with time passing?
No, the sentiment is met with affection. A stroll through a photo album from 24 years ago invites playful questions about fashion and hairstyles, all met with a smile. The path has not been perfect, as life rarely is, but it has been positive, beautiful, and full of growth. Every step is celebrated, and every lesson is appreciated.
About the latest album, Law of Gravity, written before, during, and after the pandemic, how does performing it live feel now?
It’s a work born under unusual circumstances, with emotions running high during lockdown. That environment shaped the music in a way that feels almost easier to perform now. The artist poured his heart into the songs, and there is a fresh excitement about sharing them with audiences on stage.
Ballads, slow songs, and bachatas come together on stage. Is there always time to dance?
Dance is essential because life is short. Music blends romance with rhythm, and the concerts reflect that balance. This album adds another facet to that mix, showing how the artist always seeks to combine emotion and energy in his performances.
Is reggaeton enjoying its peak moment?
The artist describes himself as a pop creator who collaborates with urban artists. He enjoys mixing reggaeton’s bright, infectious beats with his own crooner instincts, aiming to move the crowd with joy and flavor. He does not claim to be a reggaeton expert but aspires to deliver a fresh voice that makes people dance and sing along.
There’s no doubt he is known for a summer anthem that broke records. How does that achievement feel?
Being part of something historic is an honor. A melody born in a living room became a global sensation thanks to the guitar used to craft the songs. It is a constant reminder of the support from people who helped carry the idea worldwide, and the artist remains grateful for the inspiration that sparked the project.
Do he and other artists shy away from performing their biggest hits?
Yes, as long as audiences want to hear them, the artist will perform. There is genuine enjoyment in revisiting hit songs and performing them with the same enthusiasm as on the first day.
Which songs are his, and which artists left a mark on him?
Influences include Juan Luis Guerra, Luis Miguel, Alejandro Sanz, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson. A wide taste shaped his listening—from salsa at his father’s side to R&B in the United States, all while admiring singer-songwriters like Juan Gabriel who defined moments of life.
What about the collaboration with Antonio Orozco on a new version of My Hero? Who inspires him?
Family, especially his parents, stands as a constant source of inspiration. Balancing touring and recording with personal life remains an ongoing challenge, but it is managed with careful planning. His children are young, and being present for meaningful moments matters, even as touring keeps him close to fans. The goal is to avoid sacrificing either side by staying organized and attentive to both responsibilities.
What new musical projects lie ahead after this tour?
The creative process continues. The artist released an album in March, and its life extends well beyond that moment. Spain will see him through September, after which he will return to the United States for a film project and more recording work.