‘Despacito’ singer Daddy Yankee retires from music industry to devote his life to Jesus
December 05, 2023 10:18 AM
Puerto Rican rapper Daddy Yankee announced that he is leaving the music industry to devote his life to Jesus.
Yankee, whose real name is Ramon Luis Ayala Rodriguez, has produced many popular songs throughout his career, including “Gasolina” and “Rompe,” but may be best known for the international 2017 mega-hit “Despacito.” During his final performance on his La Meta tour, he told his audience that living a successful life is not the same as living a life with purpose and that he had been feeling unfulfilled for some time now.
“What good will it be for a man to gain the whole world yet forfeit his soul?” Yankee said on Sunday, quoting from the Bible. “That is why tonight, I recognize, and I am not ashamed to tell the whole world that Jesus lives in me and that I will live for him.”
The singer went on to say that all of his possessions he has used for his career, including his music, social networks, and platforms, are dedicated to the kingdom of God and that he would be embarking on “a new beginning.” He then asked his audience and fans to join him on the path of his new journey.
“To all the people who followed me, follow Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life,” Yankee said. “Just like Jesus, with his mercy, allowed me to travel the world, in your mercy, Father, I hope you allow me to evangelize the world from Puerto Rico. Amen.”
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The singer shared footage of his speech on his Instagram account, with the post pinned to the top. As of Tuesday morning, comments on the post have been limited.
“Despacito” was released in early 2017 and was performed by Luis Fonsi and Yankee, with Fonsi accompanying Yankee at his last performance on Sunday. On the American version, Justin Bieber was also featured. As of Tuesday morning, the music video for “Despacito” has 8.3 billion views on YouTube, along with over 52 million likes on the platform.