Rauw Alejandro, born Raúl Alejandro Ocasio Ruiz on January 10, 1993, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a trailblazing Latin music artist known for his innovative blend of reggaetón, Latin R&B, and pop. Often referred to as the “King of Modern Reggaetón,” Rauw has captivated global audiences with his electrifying performances, smooth vocals, and genre-defying sound. Rising to fame with hits like “Todo de Ti” and groundbreaking albums such as Vice Versa and Saturno, he has become one of the most influential figures in contemporary Latin music. With a career marked by chart-topping collaborations, prestigious awards, and a unique artistic vision, Rauw Alejandro continues to push boundaries and redefine the landscape of urban music.
Basic Information
Key Details | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Raúl Alejandro Ocasio Ruiz |
Nickname | Rauw Alejandro |
Birth Date | January 10, 1993 |
Birthplace | San Juan, Puerto Rico |
Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
Height | 5’8″ (1.73 m) |
Weight | Approx. 72 kg |
Parents | Father: Raúl Ocasio (Guitarist), Mother: María Nelly Ruiz (Backing Vocalist) |
Siblings | None known |
Net Worth | Estimated $15 million |
Relationship Status | Previously engaged to Rosalía; rumored to be dating Yasmin Barbieri |
Known For | Reggaetón, Latin R&B, rhythmic pop, and innovative music styles |
Early Life and Cultural Background
Rauw Alejandro was born on January 10, 1993, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He grew up in a musically inclined family; his father was a guitarist, and his mother was a backing vocalist. This exposure to music at an early age shaped his artistic sensibilities. His parents often played the music of legends like Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley, which later inspired Rauw’s unique style.
During his childhood, Rauw lived in Carolina and Canóvanas, Puerto Rico. He also spent some time in the United States before returning to Puerto Rico. His early years were marked by a passion for soccer, which he pursued seriously while studying at Colegio María Auxiliadora. However, an injury during his adolescence ended his dreams of becoming a professional soccer player.
This setback became a turning point in Rauw’s life. To cope with the disappointment, he turned to music as a form of therapy. He began experimenting with songwriting and singing while also showcasing his talent for dancing on local stages.
Education
Rauw attended Colegio María Auxiliadora in Puerto Rico, where he was classmates with fellow urban artist Anuel AA. He later pursued higher education in finance but dropped out to focus on his music career. His academic background reflects his practical approach to managing his career and finances.
Professional Career and Achievements
Early Career
Rauw Alejandro’s journey into the music industry began in 2014 when he started uploading songs on SoundCloud. His debut mixtape, Punto de Equilibrio, was released in 2016 under the label Under Music Group. This project featured collaborations with artists like Mike Towers and Álvaro Díaz.
Breakthrough Albums
- Afrodisíaco (2020): His debut studio album earned Gold certification in the U.S. and Colombia.
- Vice Versa (2021): Featuring the global hit “Todo de Ti,” this album catapulted Rauw to international fame.
- Saturno (2022): A concept album exploring futuristic themes and sounds.
- Playa Saturno (2023): Focused on themes of love and self-expression.
- Cosa Nuestra (2024): Experimented with salsa influences while staying true to reggaetón roots.
Collaborations
Rauw has worked with several prominent artists, including Shakira (“Te Felicito”), Selena Gomez (“Baila Conmigo”), Camilo (“Tattoo Remix”), and Rosalía (“Beso”).
Awards
- Two Latin Grammy Awards
- Two Billboard Latin Music Awards
- iHeartRadio Music Award for Best New Latin Artist
- Numerous nominations across prestigious platforms like the Grammys and MTV VMAs
Timeline of Life Events
- 1993: Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
- 2010-2012: Played soccer for Puerto Rico’s national team.
- 2014: Began uploading music on SoundCloud.
- 2016: Released debut mixtape Punto de Equilibrio.
- 2020: Released Afrodisíaco, gaining international fame.
- 2021: Achieved global success with Vice Versa.
- 2023: Released Playa Saturno; ended engagement with Rosalía.
- 2024: Released Cosa Nuestra.
Relationships
Rauw Alejandro’s personal life has often been in the spotlight:
- In 2021, he confirmed his relationship with Spanish singer Rosalía. The couple collaborated on several projects and announced their engagement in March 2023 but separated later that year.
- Recently, he has been linked to Yasmin Barbieri, an 18-year-old model and TikTok star.
Hobbies and Interests
Rauw is passionate about dancing and often incorporates it into his performances. He enjoys exploring different music genres and is known for experimenting with themes of love and relationships in his songs.
Quotes & Anecdotes
- “Music was my therapy when soccer ended.”
- “Todo de Ti was my way of blending reggaetón with pop for everyone.”
- “Rosalía taught me how to relax; she balanced me.”
Did You Know?
- Rauw Alejandro once dreamed of being a professional soccer player.
- He played for Puerto Rico’s national soccer team from 2010 to 2012.
- His song “Todo de Ti” became one of Spotify’s most-streamed tracks.
- He cites Michael Jackson as one of his biggest inspirations.
- Rauw has worked with Shakira on the hit song “Te Felicito.”
- His debut album Afrodisíaco earned Gold certification in multiple countries.
- He is known as the “King of Modern Reggaetón.”
- Rauw started his career by uploading songs on SoundCloud.
- He has won two Latin Grammy Awards.
- Before fame, he worked as a waiter, bartender, landscaper, and retail assistant.