anti-democratic rap
Rayden’s career stands out for breaking stereotypes and defying expectations. He often laughs as he calls himself the front guard of a movement that blends urban genres with fearless honesty. Prejudices once felt entrenched in music now appear hollow, and voices like his—alongside peers such as Residente—help build bridges between styles and audiences.
Rayden explains that his sound is a fusion born from genuine musical curiosity rather than a mere aesthetic experiment. The collaboration dreams he once envisioned have started to materialize, proving that music thrives on surprising pairings. Time has shown him to be right: music is most exciting when it creates sounds that haven’t been tried before.
This evolution isn’t confined to rap alone; it is a broader mutation across genres, even while some core roots remain intact. In rap, the openness to sampling and fusion prevents the genre from becoming hermetic. It would be a narcissistic illusion to claim rap was dormant before these crossovers—its essence remains intact even as it expands.
Rayden’s ascent came quickly once he realized he could make a living from his verses. In a documentary about Spanish rap, he recalls witnessing a store clerk at an urban music temple in Mexico play their A3Bandas demo, an experience that highlighted the potential voice they could offer. This moment underscored to him that there was something meaningful to say through his art.
From beginnings in a group, Rayden soon understood that his strength lay in solo delivery. Speaking on his creative mindset, he describes his mind as a vivid, sometimes uninhabitable space where democracy in a group would feel constraining. He prefers to birth bold ideas and take adventurous risks, enjoying the freedom that comes with a solo path. For him, rap equates to rebellion, a dash of irony, and a refusal to bow to prejudice. It is a stance that fuels his ongoing work and personal identity as an artist.
Looking ahead, the Madrid-born artist believes the future of the genre is clearer than ever. He expresses satisfaction in existing without being pinned to rigid expectations, embracing a diverse listening landscape that includes teens composing their own playlists. Fernandito Skip Costa, Vetusta Morla, and even the Rolling Stones can sit comfortably on similar shelves for him. That breadth of influence reflects a willingness to push boundaries—an attitude that even mainstream rap sometimes hesitates to display. Rayden sticks to his truth, ready to push the genre toward new ground.
Regarding the next steps, Rayden has hinted at upcoming projects that will continue to shape his career. A new album is anticipated, with a release window that signals a return to the stage and new creative explorations. He is currently focused on touring, bringing his live show to multiple cities and continuing to expand his reach. His journey remains anchored in staying true to his voice while inviting listeners to join in on evolving conversations through music.