History of Daddy Yankee in Timeline
"Daddy Yankee", real name Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez, is a highly influential Puerto Rican artist credited with popularizing Reggaeton globally. His 2004 hit "Gasolina" propelled him to international fame, earning him the title "King of Reggaeton". Considered a pioneer in the genre, he has inspired countless Hispanic urban artists. Daddy Yankee officially retired on December 3, 2023, concluding his illustrious career with a final concert in his native Puerto Rico as part of his "La Meta" farewell tour.
February 3, 1977: Birth of Daddy Yankee
Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez, known professionally as Daddy Yankee, was born on February 3, 1977.
1992: Snow Releases "Informer"
Daddy Yankee's 2019 hit "Con Calma" was a remake of Snow's 1992 single "Informer".
1992: Daddy Yankee Debuts on DJ Playero's Mixtape
Daddy Yankee's musical journey began in 1992 with his appearance on DJ Playero's Mixtape, "Playero 34," featuring the song "So' Persigueme, No Te Detengas."
April 2, 1995: Daddy Yankee Releases Debut Album "No Mercy"
On April 2, 1995, Daddy Yankee's first official studio album as a solo artist, "No Mercy," was released in Puerto Rico under White Lion Records and BM Records.
1996: "Macarena" Tops Billboard Hot 100
"Despacito" became the first Spanish-language song since "Macarena" in 1996 to reach the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
1996: Daughter Jesaaelys Born
Daddy Yankee and his wife, Mireddys González, welcomed their daughter, Jesaaelys, in 1996.
1996: "Macarena" Tops Charts, Paving the Way for Spanish Music
The year 1996 saw the Spanish song "Macarena" achieve the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, setting a precedent for Spanish-language music's global appeal.
1997: Daddy Yankee Collaborates with Nas on "The Profecy"
Daddy Yankee's admiration for rapper Nas led to their collaboration in 1997 on the song "The Profecy," featured on the album "Boricua Guerrero."
1998: Son Jeremy Born
Daddy Yankee's son, Jeremy, was born in 1998.
2000: "Los Cangris" Duo Formed with Nicky Jam
In 2000, Daddy Yankee and Nicky Jam joined forces to form the duo "Los Cangris," releasing a series of popular singles.
2000: Start of a Defining Decade for Latin Music
The year 2000 marked the beginning of a decade that would see Daddy Yankee's album "Barrio Fino" become a top-selling Latin music album.
2001: Daddy Yankee Releases "El Cartel II"
Daddy Yankee's second compilation album, "El Cartel II," was released in 2001, building on the success of his previous work in Puerto Rico.
2002: "El Cangri.com" Achieves International Success
Daddy Yankee's album "El Cangri.com" gained international recognition in 2002, particularly in New York City and Miami, driven by hits like "Latigazo" and "Son las Doce."
2003: Daddy Yankee Releases Compilation Album "Los Homerun-es"
Daddy Yankee's compilation album "Los Homerun-es" was released in 2003, featuring his first charted single, "Segurosqui," alongside new tracks and remakes of earlier songs.
July 2004: "Barrio Fino" Released to Critical Acclaim
Daddy Yankee's highly anticipated album "Barrio Fino" was released in July 2004, showcasing his musical versatility and incorporating genres beyond reggaeton.
2004: Acting Debut in "Vampiros"
Daddy Yankee made his acting debut in the film "Vampiros", directed by Eduardo Ortiz, in 2004.
2004: "Barrio Fino" and the Rise of Reggaeton
Daddy Yankee's album "Barrio Fino" was released in 2004, and its hit single "Gasolina" propelled reggaeton into the global music scene.
2004: "Gasolina" Ignites Global Reggaeton Craze
Daddy Yankee's release of "Gasolina" in 2004 brought reggaeton to the world stage, solidifying his position as a key figure in popularizing the genre.
2004: "Gasolina" Propels Daddy Yankee to Global Fame
Daddy Yankee's song "Gasolina" achieved international success in 2004, introducing reggaeton to a global audience and marking a turning point in his career.
2004: "Los Cangris" Duo Disbands
Due to personal and creative differences, Daddy Yankee and Nicky Jam decided to part ways as "Los Cangris" in 2004.
2004: Latin Music's Bright Spot
In 2004, Daddy Yankee emerged as a top-selling artist in the Latin music industry, contributing to its 12% growth in revenue, as reported by Nielsen SoundScan. This period marked reggaeton's significant rise in popularity, with Daddy Yankee at the forefront.
March 2005: "Vampiros" DVD Release
"Vampiros", a film featuring Daddy Yankee as an extra, saw its international DVD release in March 2005.
April 28, 2005: Daddy Yankee's "Barrio Fino" Wins Big at Latin Billboard Awards
On April 28, 2005, Daddy Yankee's album "Barrio Fino" was awarded "Reggaeton Album of the Year" at the Latin Billboard Awards. He also delivered a memorable performance, doing a medley of three songs in a duet with P. Diddy.
December 13, 2005: Daddy Yankee Releases "Barrio Fino en Directo"
On December 13, 2005, Daddy Yankee released the live album "Barrio Fino en Directo", a follow-up to his highly successful album "Barrio Fino".
2005: First Latin Artist to Sign with Reebok
In 2005, Daddy Yankee made history by becoming the first Latin artist to ink a deal with Reebok, paving the way for his own merchandise line.
April 30, 2006: Daddy Yankee Named One of Time's 100 Most Influential People
On April 30, 2006, Daddy Yankee's influence in music was recognized by Time magazine, which included him in their list of the 100 most influential people. His inclusion was attributed to the success of "Barrio Fino", his $20 million contract with Interscope Records, and his endorsement deal with Pepsi.
May 23, 2006: Reebok Partnership Launch
On May 23, 2006, Daddy Yankee's partnership with Reebok kicked off with the release of his own line of shoes and sporting goods.
2006: Interview on "Al Rojo Vivo"
Daddy Yankee gave a rare interview in 2006 on "Al Rojo Vivo" with María Celeste Arrarás, discussing his family life and marriage to Mireddys González.
2006: Daddy Yankee Featured in Time 100
Daddy Yankee's influence was further cemented in 2006 when he was included in Time magazine's prestigious Time 100 list.
2006: The King of Reggaeton
In 2006, Daddy Yankee was dubbed "The King of Reggaeton" by The New York Times. This recognition came amidst a surge in Latin music sales, with Daddy Yankee recognized as a key driver of this growth, particularly within the reggaeton genre.
2006: Daddy Yankee Produces "El Cartel: The Big Boss"
In 2006, Daddy Yankee worked on the production of his album "El Cartel: The Big Boss". The album featured collaborations with various artists including will.i.am, Scott Storch, Tainy Tunes, Neli, Héctor el Father, Fergie, Nicole Scherzinger and Akon.
June 5, 2007: Daddy Yankee Releases "El Cartel: The Big Boss"
On June 5, 2007, Daddy Yankee released his album "El Cartel: The Big Boss" under Interscope Records. Daddy Yankee emphasized the album's significance as a return to his hip-hop roots.
July 2007: Reebok Travel Trainer Collection
In July 2007, Reebok continued its partnership with Daddy Yankee by introducing the Travel Trainer collection.
August 2007: Pepsi "Puertas" Campaign
Daddy Yankee was featured in Pepsi's "Puertas" advertising campaign in August 2007, which centered around the theme of returning to one's roots.
2007: Daddy Yankee's Guest Appearances on Reggaeton Compilation Albums
Throughout 2007, Daddy Yankee made guest appearances on several popular reggaeton compilation albums, including "Caribbean Connection", "Echo Presenta: Invasión", "Mas Flow: Los Benjamins", and "20 Number 1's Now".
2007: Spokesperson for "Yo Limpio a Puerto Rico"
Daddy Yankee became the spokesperson for the environmental organization "Yo Limpio a Puerto Rico" (I Clean Puerto Rico) in 2007.
February 6, 2008: Joins Criollos de Caguas Ownership
Daddy Yankee announced his partial ownership of the Criollos de Caguas basketball team on February 6, 2008, during a Baloncesto Superior Nacional press conference.
April 26, 2008: Awarded "Latino of the Year"
On April 26, 2008, Daddy Yankee received the "Latino of the Year Award" from Harvard College's student organization Presencia Latina in recognition of his work with Puerto Rican youth through Corazón Guerrero.
July 2008: Daddy Yankee Announces Production of Thalía's "Ten Paciencia" Cover
In July 2008, Daddy Yankee shared his plans to produce a cover version of Thalía's song "Ten Paciencia".
July 23, 2008: "Talento de Barrio" Premieres at New York's Latino Film Festival
Daddy Yankee's film "Talento de Barrio" premiered at the New York Latino Film Festival on July 23, 2008.
August 17, 2008: Daddy Yankee Releases "Talento De Barrio" Soundtrack Album
On August 17, 2008, Daddy Yankee released the soundtrack album "Talento De Barrio", based on the film of the same name.
August 25, 2008: Endorsement of John McCain
On August 25, 2008, Daddy Yankee publicly endorsed John McCain for the 2008 US presidential election.
October 9, 2008: "Vota o quédate callado" Debate
Daddy Yankee moderated a debate titled "Vota o quédate callado: los candidatos responden a los jóvenes" (Vote or Remain Silent: Candidates Answer the Youth) on October 9, 2008, as part of a campaign to encourage voting.
2008: "Vota o quédate callado" Concert
Daddy Yankee participated in a campaign encouraging voter participation in the 2008 Puerto Rican general elections, culminating in a concert titled "Vota o quédate callado" (Vote or Remain Silent).
2008: Daddy Yankee Featured in Grand Theft Auto IV
In 2008, Daddy Yankee was featured as the DJ for the in-game radio station "Radio San Juan Sounds" in the video game "Grand Theft Auto IV". His hit song "Impacto" was included in the game's soundtrack.
2008: Daddy Yankee's Guest Appearances on Reggaeton Compilation Albums
Throughout 2008, Daddy Yankee made guest appearances on several popular reggaeton compilation albums, including "Caribbean Connection", "Echo Presenta: Invasión", "Mas Flow: Los Benjamins", and "20 Number 1's Now".
February 27, 2009: Daddy Yankee's Performance at Viña del Mar International Song Festival
On February 27, 2009, Daddy Yankee gave a performance at the Viña del Mar International Song Festival in Chile. His set, which lasted over two hours, included hits such as "Rompe", "Llamado de emergencia", "Ella Me Levantó", "Gasolina", "Limpia Parabrisas", and "Lo Que Pasó, Pasó". His performance earned him the "Silver Torch", "Gold Torch", and "Silver Seagull" awards.
April 17, 2009: Daddy Yankee's "Talento de Barrio" Certified Multi-Platinum
On April 17, 2009, Daddy Yankee's album "Talento de Barrio" was certified as Multi-Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
April 24, 2009: Daddy Yankee Receives Spirit of Hope Award at Latin Billboard Music Awards
On April 24, 2009, at the Latin Billboard Music Awards, Daddy Yankee was honored with the Spirit of Hope Award, recognizing his community involvement and social efforts.
October 8, 2009: Daddy Yankee Releases "Grito Mundial"
Daddy Yankee released the single "Grito Mundial" on October 8, 2009, as part of the promotional efforts for his upcoming album "Mundial". Although initially intended as the official theme song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Daddy Yankee ultimately declined FIFA's offer due to their demand for 100% of the rights.
2009: Daddy Yankee Named "Most Influential Hispanic Artist" by CNN
In recognition of his impact on music and culture, CNN honored Daddy Yankee as the "Most Influential Hispanic Artist" in 2009.
2009: End of an Era: "Barrio Fino" Tops Latin Music Charts
Daddy Yankee's album "Barrio Fino" concluded the decade of the 2000s as one of the top-selling Latin music albums, reflecting its significant impact.
January 12, 2010: Daddy Yankee Releases "Descontrol"
Daddy Yankee's single "Descontrol", released on January 12, 2010, reached the top spot on the Billboard Latin Rhythm Airplay chart.
May 17, 2010: Daddy Yankee Releases Music Video for "Descontrol"
On May 17, 2010, Daddy Yankee released the music video for his single "Descontrol", which was filmed in New York City.
August 4, 2010: Daddy Yankee Releases "La Despedida"
On August 4, 2010, Daddy Yankee released "La Despedida", the third single from his album "Mundial". The song achieved success by reaching the fourth position on both the Billboard Top Latin Songs and Latin Pop Songs charts.
2010: Daddy Yankee Collaborates on "Somos El Mundo 25 Por Haiti"
In 2010, Daddy Yankee contributed to the song "Somos El Mundo 25 Por Haiti", providing rap vocals alongside rapper Pitbull.
April 12, 2011: Daddy Yankee Releases "Ven Conmigo" Featuring Prince Royce
On April 12, 2011, Daddy Yankee released "Ven Conmigo", a collaborative single featuring bachata singer Prince Royce. The song performed well, reaching the ninth spot on the Billboard Latin Charts.
October 4, 2011: Daddy Yankee Releases "Lovumba"
Daddy Yankee released the single "Lovumba" on October 4, 2011. The song topped the Billboard Latin Charts and Latin Songs chart and received a nomination for Best Urban Song at the 2012 Latin Grammy Awards.
December 2011: Daddy Yankee Delays "Prestige" Album Release
Daddy Yankee's album "Prestige", initially slated for release in November or December 2011, faced a setback and had to be pushed back due to unforeseen circumstances.
June 20, 2012: Daddy Yankee Releases "Pasarela"
On June 20, 2012, Daddy Yankee released the single "Pasarela".
September 11, 2012: Daddy Yankee Releases "Prestige"
Daddy Yankee's sixth studio album, "Prestige", was released on September 11, 2012. The album's release faced a significant delay due to a hurricane that damaged El Cartel Records, resulting in the loss of half of the album's material.
November 24, 2012: Macho Camacho, Subject of Daddy Yankee's Film, Dies
Boxer Macho Camacho, the subject of Daddy Yankee's upcoming film, passed away on November 24, 2012.
2012: Daddy Yankee and Nicky Jam Reconcile
After an eight-year separation, Daddy Yankee and Nicky Jam reconciled in 2012, marking a positive turn in their relationship and leading to joint concert performances.
2012: Daddy Yankee Reconciles with Wisin & Yandel
In a significant event for the genre, 2012 saw the reconciliation of Daddy Yankee and Wisin & Yandel after years of rivalry. This marked the end of their feud and a renewed collaboration in music.
February 16, 2013: Wisin & Yandel Collaborate on "Limbo" Remix
On February 16, 2013, continuing their reconciliation, Wisin & Yandel collaborated on the remix of Daddy Yankee's song "Limbo".
February 25, 2013: Daddy Yankee Performs at Viña del Mar Festival
On February 25, 2013, Daddy Yankee gave a sold-out performance at the Viña del Mar International Song Festival. He was recognized with the Silver and Golden Torch and the Silver and Golden Seagull awards.
March 8, 2013: Daddy Yankee's "Prestige" Certified Gold
On March 8, 2013, Daddy Yankee's album "Prestige" was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
March 2013: New Movie Production Announced
During an interview in Las Vegas in March 2013, Daddy Yankee hinted at a new movie project.
October 29, 2013: "King Daddy" Mixtape Released
On October 29, 2013, Daddy Yankee released the mixtape "King Daddy", a return to his reggaeton roots. Produced by Los de la Nazza, it featured collaborations with various artists.
November 29, 2013: "Trylogy" Video Game Release
Daddy Yankee's 3D tower defense game, "Trylogy," was launched on November 29, 2013, featuring his popular songs.
January 2014: Film Announcement
In a January 2014 radio interview, Daddy Yankee confirmed his involvement in a new film project, revealing that it would feature several reggaeton artists.
February 2014: Film About Macho Camacho Confirmed
It was confirmed in February 2014 that Daddy Yankee's film would focus on the life of boxer Macho Camacho.
June 17, 2014: "Ora por Mí" Single Released
On June 17, 2014, Daddy Yankee released "Ora por Mí" ("Pray for Me"), a single that used the instrumental of Scorpions' "Send Me An Angel."
June 22, 2014: King Daddy Tour Concludes
Daddy Yankee concluded his King Daddy Tour on June 22, 2014. The tour spanned numerous cities across Europe, South America, and North America.
June 24, 2014: "Ora por Mí" Music Video Released
On June 24, 2014, the music video for "Ora por Mí" was released, filmed in San Juan, Puerto Rico, reflecting on the artist's life and the challenges of fame.
September 2, 2014: "Palabras Con Sentido" Single Released
Daddy Yankee released "Palabras Con Sentido" ("Words With Sentiments") on September 2, 2014, a song defending reggaeton and urban music.
September 9, 2014: "This Is Not A Love Song" Single Released
On September 9, 2014, Daddy Yankee debuted his first English-language single, "This Is Not A Love Song," featuring rapper Duncan.
2015: Planned Release Date of Macho Camacho Film
Daddy Yankee's film about Macho Camacho was originally slated for release in 2015, but it remains unreleased.
April 28, 2016: Daddy Yankee Receives Industry Leader Award
Daddy Yankee was honored with the "Industry Leader Award" at the 2016 Latin Billboard Awards on April 28, 2016.
April 20, 2017: "Despacito" Video Hits One Billion Views
On April 20, 2017, the music video for "Despacito," Daddy Yankee's collaboration with Luis Fonsi, reached an unprecedented one billion views on YouTube.
June 2017: Daddy Yankee Becomes Most Listened Artist on Spotify
Daddy Yankee's collaboration on "Despacito" led him to become the most streamed artist worldwide on Spotify in June 2017, a first for a Latin artist.
June 2017: Daddy Yankee Dominates Spotify as Most-Listened Artist
Daddy Yankee's collaboration on "Despacito" propelled him to become the most-streamed artist globally on Spotify in June 2017, a historic achievement for a Latin artist.
2017: Donation to Food Bank of Puerto Rico
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Daddy Yankee donated $100,000 to the Food Bank of Puerto Rico in 2017, providing aid to thousands of families.
August 2018: Collaboration with Janet Jackson
Daddy Yankee collaborated with Janet Jackson on her comeback song "Made for Now" in August 2018.
July 8, 2019: Presents MLB HR Derby Medallion
Daddy Yankee presented Pete Alonso with the HR Derby Champ medallion at the MLB Home Run Derby on July 8, 2019.
November 2019: Inauguration of Reggaeton Museum
Daddy Yankee inaugurated the first-ever reggaeton museum in Plaza Las Américas in November 2019.
2019: "Con Calma" Single Released
In 2019, Daddy Yankee released "Con Calma," a reimagining of Snow's 1992 hit "Informer." The song saw international success, topping charts in numerous countries.
2019: Record-Breaking Performances at Coliseum of Puerto Rico
In 2019, Daddy Yankee set a national record in Puerto Rico by performing 12 consecutive sold-out concerts at the Coliseum of Puerto Rico, demonstrating his unparalleled popularity and influence in his home country.
April 2020: Most Subscribed Latin Artist on YouTube Music
By April 2020, Daddy Yankee achieved the milestone of being the most subscribed Latin artist on YouTube Music, solidifying his global reach and impact. He also secured the top spot as the most listened-to artist worldwide, maintaining a position in the Top 20 during this time.
March 2022: Daddy Yankee Announces Retirement Plans
In March 2022, Daddy Yankee revealed his decision to retire from music following the release of his album "Legendaddy" and its accompanying tour.
March 21, 2022: Daddy Yankee Announces Retirement and "Legendaddy" Album
Daddy Yankee announced his retirement and final album, "Legendaddy", on March 21, 2022. The album was released on March 24, and he planned to retire after his supporting tour, which would run from August to December.
January 26, 2023: "Panties y Brasieres" Single Released
Rauw Alejandro, featuring Daddy Yankee, released the single "Panties y Brasieres" on January 26, 2023.
December 3, 2023: Daddy Yankee's Retirement
Daddy Yankee officially retired from music on December 3, 2023, after concluding his "La Meta" tour in Puerto Rico.
December 2023: Announces Christian Faith
During his concert tour at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in December 2023, Daddy Yankee shared his conversion to Christianity and his desire to engage in evangelization.
2023: Executive Producer and Cameo in "Neon"
In 2023, Daddy Yankee took on the role of executive producer for the Netflix series "Neon," a show about aspiring reggaeton artists. He also made a cameo appearance in the series.
March 29, 2024: "Donante de Sangre" Single Released
Daddy Yankee released the single "Donante de Sangre" on March 29, 2024.