Tag: Player

  • Rauw Alejandro action figure to life

    Rauw Alejandro action figure to life

    A little bit of context

    Rauw Alejandro: The King of Modern Reggaeton 1

    Rauw Alejandro has quickly become one of the biggest names in Latin music today. His unique blend of reggaeton, R&B, and pop, coupled with his captivating stage presence, has garnered him international recognition and a devoted fan base. This blog post delves into the life and career of this multifaceted artist, exploring his musical journey, influences, and achievements.

    Rauw Alejandro’s History

    Born Raúl Alejandro Ocasio Ruiz on January 10, 1993, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Rauw Alejandro was raised in a musical household2. His father, Raúl Ocasio, is a guitarist, and his mother, María Nelly Ruiz, is a backing vocalist2. They introduced him to diverse musical genres, from the iconic sounds of Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson to the rhythmic beats of his native Puerto Rico2.

    Alejandro’s early passion for dance led him to compete in school talent shows2. He further honed his performance skills while attending the University of Puerto Rico2. Although he initially pursued soccer, playing for many years and even moving to Orlando, Florida, with hopes of joining the Premier Development League, an injury ultimately sidelined his athletic aspirations2. This setback proved to be a turning point, leading him to fully embrace his musical talents2.

    In 2014, Alejandro began releasing music on SoundCloud, showcasing his early musical explorations2. He further solidified his commitment to music with the release of his debut mixtape, “Punto de Equilibrio,” in 20162. A significant breakthrough came in 2017 when he signed with Duars Entertainment and subsequently with Sony Music Latin as part of their “Los Próximos” project2. This initiative, aimed at spotlighting emerging artists, provided Alejandro with valuable exposure and helped him gain recognition within the industry2.

    In a 2024 interview on the Spanish television show “El Hormiguero,” Alejandro reflected on his journey to stardom3. He emphasized the importance of hard work and resilience, sharing that “nobody has gifted me anything.” 3 Before his music career took off, he held numerous jobs to make ends meet, including working as a waiter, bartender, landscaper, and retail assistant3. These experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for his success.

    Musical Influences and Notable Collaborations

    Rauw Alejandro’s music is a melting pot of influences, dRauwing inspiration from a diverse range of artists. He cites legends like Michael Jackson, Chris Brown, and Daddy Yankee as major influences, alongside contemporary artists like Bruno Mars and Ciara2. This eclectic mix has allowed him to carve a unique space for himself in the Latin music scene, blending classic sounds with modern sensibilities2.

    Collaboration has been a key element in Alejandro’s career, allowing him to connect with diverse artists and reach a wider audience. Some of his most notable collaborations include:

    • “Fantasías” with Farruko: This track, with its remix featuring Anuel AA, Lunay, and Natti Natasha, became one of his first major hits2. The original song peaked at number 12 on the US Hot Latin Songs chart, and the remix, with its accompanying music video, further amplified its popularity2. The remix video has garnered over 425 million views on YouTube, showcasing the power of collaborative efforts in expanding his reach2.
    • “Tattoo” Remix with Camilo: This collaboration earned him a Latin Grammy Award for Best Urban Fusion/Performance in 20212.
    • “Todo de Ti”: Released in 2021, this song soared to number 2 on Spotify’s Top Songs Global chart, marking a significant milestone in his career2. It became an international sensation, solidifying his status as a global artist and showcasing his ability to create music that transcends borders3.
    • “Cambia el paso” with Jennifer Lopez: This 2021 collaboration further expanded his reach and showcased his versatility2. The music video, shot in Miami, featured both artists and further promoted the song’s popularity2.
    • “Te Felicito” with Shakira: This 2022 hit topped several Billboard Latin charts, including Latin Airplay, Latin Pop Airplay, and Latin Rhythm Airplay2.
    • “En Tu Cuerpo” Remix with Lyanno, Lenny Tavárez, and María Becerra: This 2020 collaboration brought together a mix of established and emerging artists, showcasing Alejandro’s ability to connect with different generations of musicians2. The music video for this remix has amassed over 386 million views on YouTube, further highlighting its popularity2.
    • “Cosa Nuestra” with Bad Bunny: This track from his 2024 album “Cosa Nuestra” has been praised for its unique blend of old-school reggaeton and modern sounds5.
    • “Khé?” with Romeo Santos: This collaboration on “Cosa Nuestra” blends reggaeton with bachata influences, showcasing Alejandro’s ability to seamlessly fuse genres5.
    • Relationship with Rosalía: Beyond collaborations, Alejandro’s personal life has also intertwined with his music career. He has been in a relationship with Spanish singer Rosalía since 20192. The two artists have collaborated on several tracks, including songs on Alejandro’s debut album Afrodisíaco2. In 2023, they released a joint EP titled RR, further solidifying their personal and professional connection2.

    These collaborations highlight not only his musical talent but also his ability to connect with diverse artists and create music that resonates with a wide audience.

    Discography

    Rauw Alejandro has released a series of successful albums and singles, consistently pushing the boundaries of Latin music and experimenting with different sounds and styles. His discography is a testament to his versatility and artistic vision.

    Album TitleRelease DateCritical Reception
    Afrodisíaco2020Grammy nomination for Best Música Urbana Album, generally favorable reviews for its production and Alejandro’s versatility 6
    Vice Versa2021Topped Billboard Top Latin Albums chart, ranked as one of the best albums of 2021 by Rolling Stone, praised for its diverse genres and Alejandro’s versatility 2
    Saturno2022Mixed reception, praised for its unique blend of old-school reggaeton and modern sounds, but some criticism for lack of cohesion 10
    Playa Saturno2023Generally positive reviews, praised for its summery vibes and continuation of the Saturno sound, but some criticism for sounding repetitive 12
    Cosa Nuestra2024Positive reviews, praised for its diverse genres, Alejandro’s versatility, and exploration of his Puerto Rican heritage 15

    Studio Albums:

    • Afrodisíaco (2020): This debut album marked a significant step in Alejandro’s career, showcasing his versatility and establishing him as a rising star in the Latin music scene2. The album features a blend of reggaeton, Latin trap, R&B, and electronic elements, with lyrics that explore themes of love, desire, and heartbreak7. Afrodisíaco received generally favorable reviews from music critics, who praised its production and Alejandro’s ability to seamlessly transition between different styles6. It was nominated for Best Música Urbana Album at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, further solidifying its impact2.
    • Vice Versa (2021): This sophomore album saw Alejandro further experimenting with his sound, incorporating elements of synth-pop, drum and bass, and even hints of bolero18. Vice Versa topped the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart and was ranked as one of the best albums of 2021 by Rolling Stone2. The album’s critical and commercial success solidified Alejandro’s position as a global music icon19.
    • Saturno (2022): With Saturno, Alejandro continued to push boundaries, blending old-school reggaeton with futuristic sounds and 80s influences11. The album received a mixed reception, with some critics praising its originality while others found it lacking in cohesion10. Despite the mixed reviews, Saturno demonstrated Alejandro’s willingness to take risks and explore new sonic territories.
    • Playa Saturno (2023): This album served as a continuation of the Saturno era, with a focus on summery vibes and a return to Alejandro’s reggaeton roots13. Playa Saturno received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its energy and dancefloor-ready tracks12. However, some found it to be somewhat repetitive compared to his previous work14.
    • Cosa Nuestra (2024): This album marked a new chapter in Alejandro’s career, with a deeper exploration of his Puerto Rican heritage and a return to the sounds of salsa and classic reggaeton16. Cosa Nuestra received positive reviews, with critics praising its diverse genres, Alejandro’s versatility, and the album’s overall concept15.

    EPs:

    • Trap Cake, Vol. 1 (2019): This EP showcased Alejandro’s versatility, with a focus on trap and urban sounds2.
    • Trap Cake, Vol. 2 (2022): This follow-up EP continued his exploration of trap and urban music, further solidifying his position within the genre2.
    • RR (with Rosalía) (2023): This collaborative EP with Rosalía blended their unique styles, creating a captivating mix of flamenco, pop, and urban influences2.

    Popular Tracks:

    In addition to the key tracks mentioned in the table above, some of Alejandro’s most popular songs include:

    • Spotify’s Most Streamed: “Todo De Ti,” “Desesperados,” “LOKERA,” “Party,” “Tiroteo – Remix” 22
    • Top 10 Tracks of All Time: “Qué Pasaría…” (with Bad Bunny), “Khé?” (with Romeo Santos), “Santa” (with Ayra Starr), “Tú Con Él,” “Todo De Ti,” “Desesperados,” “LOKERA,” “DILUVIO,” “Se Fue,” “Tiroteo – Remix” 5

    Concert Tours and Performances

    Rauw Alejandro is renowned for his electrifying live performances, which seamlessly blend his musical talent with intricate choreography and captivating visuals19. He has embarked on several successful tours, captivating audiences across the globe and solidifying his status as a global music icon19.

    • Fantasías Tour (2020) 2
    • Rauw Alejandro World Tour (2021) 2
    • Vice Versa Tour (2022) 2
    • Saturno World Tour (2023) 2
    • Cosa Nuestra World Tour (2025) 2

    His tours have been characterized by sold-out shows and enthusiastic crowds, dRauwn to his energetic stage presence and dynamic performances19. Alejandro’s “Cosa Nuestra World Tour” offers a range of VIP packages for fans, including perks like meet-and-greets, early entry, and exclusive merchandise23.

    While Alejandro’s tours have primarily focused on traditional concert venues, it’s worth noting the growing trend of online performances and their potential to reach a wider audience. For instance, the Venezuelan band Rauwayana gained significant international popularity through their “El Tiny” takeover performance on NPR, which garnered over 7.2 million views24. This example highlights the increasing importance of digital platforms in expanding an artist’s reach and connecting with fans globally.

    Merchandise

    Rauw Alejandro’s merchandise extends beyond the typical t-shirts and posters, reflecting his unique style and brand. He has collaborated with Crocs to create limited-edition clogs featuring wraparound laces and vibrant colors25. The collection includes both black and bone colorways, offering fans a choice between a classic look and a more neutral option26. These collaborations have been highly sought after by fans, further demonstrating his influence in the fashion world.

    In addition to his Crocs collaboration, Alejandro has a variety of merchandise available on platforms like eBay, Etsy, and his official website27. Fans can find items such as:

    • Clothing: T-shirts featuring album art and tour dates, hoodies with his logo, and pajamas with unique designs 27
    • Accessories: Earrings with his signature “El Zorro” fox logo, air fresheners with album cover art, and phone cases with vintage-inspired designs 28
    • Home Goods: Shot glasses with his logo, tumblers with album-themed designs, and blankets featuring imagery from his “Playa Saturno” album 28
    • Collectibles: A Raúl Alejandro collectible toy figure, posters with album art and tour dates, and albums in various formats, including CDs and vinyl 29

    Future Projects

    Rauw Alejandro continues to evolve as an artist, with several exciting projects on the horizon. He is currently on his “Cosa Nuestra World Tour,” which will continue through 20252. The tour promises to be a spectacular showcase of his music and performance skills, with dates scheduled across the United States and Puerto Rico.

    Alejandro has also hinted at a possible new album in the works, potentially featuring more collaborations with Shakira and Rosalía30. In an interview with Billboard, he revealed that he is taking on the persona of “Raúl Alejandro y Su Orquesta” for his upcoming projects, marking a return to his Puerto Rican roots and the era of salsa bandleaders31. This new direction suggests an exploration of his musical heritage and a further expansion of his artistic vision.

    The “Pasaporte” music video, released in September 2024, provided a glimpse into the concept and aesthetic of his upcoming album, “Cosa Nuestra.” 31 The video featured imagery of travel and global destinations, hinting at the album’s theme of cultural exploration and connection.

    Conclusion

    Rauw Alejandro’s journey from aspiring soccer player to global music sensation is a testament to his talent, dedication, and artistic vision. He has consistently pushed the boundaries of Latin music, captivating audiences with his unique sound and electrifying performances. His willingness to experiment with different genres, collaborate with diverse artists, and incorporate visuals and performance into his artistry has set him apart in the music industry.

    Alejandro’s impact extends beyond his music. He has become a fashion icon, with his Crocs collaboration and unique merchandise line reflecting his influence in the fashion world. His deep connection to his Puerto Rican heritage shines through in his music, and he continues to explore his cultural roots in his latest projects.

    With a promising future ahead, Rauw Alejandro is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. His dedication to his craft, his constant evolution as an artist, and his ability to connect with a global audience suggest a long and successful career ahead.

    Song and Lyrics


    Instrumental

    Works cited

    1. Rauw Alejandro age, hometown, biography – Last.fm, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.last.fm/music/Rauw+Alejandro/+wiki

    2. Rauw Alejandro – Wikipedia, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rauw_Alejandro

    3. Rauw Alejandro had seven jobs before his breakthrough in music – HOLA, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.hola.com/us/celebrities/20241108729032/rauw-alejandro-had-seven-jobs-before-his-breakthrough-in-music/

    4. en.wikipedia.org, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rauw_Alejandro#:~:text=He%20has%20cited%20Chris%20Brown,one%20of%20his%20dream%20collaborations.

    5. Best Rauw Alejandro Songs of All Time – Top 10 Tracks – Discotech, accessed February 2, 2025, https://app.discotech.me/articles/best-rauw-alejandro-songs-of-all-time-top-tracks

    6. en.wikipedia.org, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afrodis%C3%ADaco#:~:text=Critical%20reception,-Professional%20ratings&text=Afrodis%C3%ADaco%20received%20generally%20favorable%20reviews%20from%20music%20critics.

    7. Afrodisíaco – Wikipedia, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afrodis%C3%ADaco

    8. en.wikipedia.org, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vice_Versa_(Rauw_Alejandro_album)#:~:text=Critical%20reception,-Professional%20ratings&text=Vice%20Versa%20received%20generally%20favorable%20reviews%20from%20music%20critics.,the%20future%22%20with%20Vice%20Versa.

    9. Vice Versa (Rauw Alejandro album) – Wikipedia, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vice_Versa_(Rauw_Alejandro_album)

    10. Rauw Alejandro – Playa Saturno (Album) : r/Reggaeton – Reddit, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Reggaeton/comments/14sw52w/rauw_alejandro_playa_saturno_album/

    11. Rauw Alejandro – Saturno (Album) : r/Reggaeton – Reddit, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Reggaeton/comments/ys1wkn/rauw_alejandro_saturno_album/

    12. theweeklycoos.blog, accessed February 2, 2025, https://theweeklycoos.blog/2023/07/12/rauw-alejandro-playa-saturno-review/#:~:text=Playa%20Saturno%20shows%20us%20what,damn%20near%20it%20with%20the

    13. Rauw Alejandro – Playa Saturno: Review – The Weekly Coos, accessed February 2, 2025, https://theweeklycoos.blog/2023/07/12/rauw-alejandro-playa-saturno-review/

    14. Rauw Alejandro, ‘Playa Saturno’ Review – Complex, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.complex.com/music/a/ecleen-luzmila/first-impressions-review-rauw-alejandro-playa-saturno

    15. en.wikipedia.org, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosa_Nuestra_(Rauw_Alejandro_album)#:~:text=Upon%20release%2C%20the%20album%20received,album%20and%20the%20singer’s%20versatility.

    16. Cosa Nuestra (Rauw Alejandro album) – Wikipedia, accessed February 2, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosa_Nuestra_(Rauw_Alejandro_album)

    17. Album Review: Rauw Alejandro, ‘Cosa Nuestra’ – The Pop Break, accessed February 2, 2025, https://thepopbreak.com/2024/12/02/album-review-rauw-alejandro-cosa-nuestra/

    18. Review: Rauw Alejandro – VICE VERSA – Nouse, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.nouse.co.uk/articles/2021/12/06/review-rauw-alejandro—vice-versa

    19. Bio – Rauw Alejandro, accessed February 2, 2025, https://rauwalejandro.com/bio/

    20. REVIEW: Rauw Alejandro’s “Saturno” – The Miami Hurricane, accessed February 2, 2025, https://themiamihurricane.com/2022/11/26/review-rauw-alejandros-saturno/

    21. Rauw Alejandro’s New Album ‘Cosa Nuestra’: Tour, Collaborations, Release Date, accessed February 2, 2025, https://los40.us/2024/rauw-alejandros-new-album-cosa-nuestra-tour-collaborations-release-date-24223.html

    22. Rauw Alejandro – Spotify Top Songs – Kworb.net, accessed February 2, 2025, https://kworb.net/spotify/artist/1mcTU81TzQhprhouKaTkpq_songs.html

    23. Rauw Alejandro Tickets, 2025 Concert Tour Dates | Ticketmaster, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.ticketmaster.com/rauw-alejandro-tickets/artist/2628019?page=15

    24. For Rauwayana, earning a Grammy nomination is an act of Venezuela resilience, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.latimes.com/delos/story/2025-01-31/Rauwayana-grammys-2025-nomination-venezuela-nicolas-maduro-bomba-estereo

    25. Rauw Alejandro X Crocs Mega Crush Clog, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.crocs.com/p/rauw-alejandro-x-crocs-mega-crush-clog/210486.html

    26. Crocs Rauw Alejandro – The Garden, accessed February 2, 2025, https://gardentm.com/en/collections/crocs-rauw-alejandro

    27. Rauw Alejandro Merch – eBay, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.ebay.com/shop/rauw-alejandro-merch?_nkw=rauw+alejandro+merch

    28. Rauw Alejandro Merch – Etsy, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.etsy.com/market/rauw_alejandro_merch

    29. Rauw Alejandro Store, accessed February 2, 2025, https://rauwalejandrostore.com/

    30. Rauw Alejandro On Collaborations With Shakira, Dating Rosalia & More – YouTube, accessed February 2, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlNZHnmvOP8

    31. WATCH: Rauw Alejandro Announces New Album With ‘Pasaporte’ Music Video – Remezcla, accessed February 2, 2025, https://remezcla.com/music/watch-rauw-alejandro-announces-new-album-with-pasaporte-music-video/

  • Funko Gold DMX Premium Vinyl Figure

    Funko Gold DMX Premium Vinyl Figure

    A little bit of context

    DMX: The Ruff Ryder Legend Lives On

    DMX, the gravel-voiced rapper whose raw emotion and intense delivery captivated audiences worldwide, left an undeniable mark on hip-hop and popular culture. Though he tragically passed away in 2021, his legacy continues to resonate through his music, film roles, and the enduring impact he had on the industry.

    From the Streets to Stardom:

    Born Earl Simmons in 1970, DMX’s childhood was marked by hardship and instability. He channeled his experiences into his music, crafting gritty narratives of struggle, faith, and redemption that resonated with fans who connected with his authenticity. His breakthrough came in 1998 with the release of his debut album, “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot,” which topped the Billboard charts and solidified his place as a force to be reckoned with.

    Multifaceted Talent:

    Beyond his music career, DMX showcased his versatility as an actor, appearing in films like “Belly,” “Romeo Must Die,” and “Cradle 2 the Grave.” His imposing presence and natural charisma translated seamlessly to the big screen, further expanding his fanbase.

    DMX in the Digital Realm:

    While DMX’s presence in video games might not be as extensive as his music and filmmography, he has made appearances in titles like “Def Jam Vendetta” and “Def Jam: Fight for NY,” where players could step into the ring as the rap icon.

    The Music that Defined a Generation:

    DMX’s discography is a testament to his raw talent and emotional depth. Hits like “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Party Up (Up in Here),” and “X Gon’ Give It to Ya” became anthems, their energy and aggression unmatched. His music continues to inspire and influence artists across genres, ensuring his legacy lives on.

    Collectibles and Merchandise:

    For fans looking to own a piece of DMX’s legacy, various merchandise and collectibles are available. These include:

    • Albums and CDs: His extensive discography is readily available on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, and Spotify.
    • Vinyl Records: For audiophiles, vinyl pressings of his albums offer a classic listening experience.
    • T-Shirts and Apparel: Clothing featuring DMX’s image, lyrics, or album art can be found at retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart, as well as specialized hip-hop merchandise stores.
    • Posters and Wall Art: Decorate your space with posters showcasing iconic DMX imagery.

    Unfortunately, action figures or high-end collectibles specifically dedicated to DMX are not widely available. However, given his enduring popularity, there’s always potential for future releases. Keep an eye out for announcements from companies specializing in music and entertainment memorabilia.

    The Future of DMX’s Legacy:

    Though DMX is no longer with us, his influence continues to shape the music landscape. His music is timeless, and his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and fans alike. As new generations discover his work, his legacy will undoubtedly endure.

    Posthumous releases, documentaries, and biographical projects are likely to further cement his place in music history. His impact on hip-hop is undeniable, and his raw, unfiltered artistry will continue to resonate for years to come.

    Where to Find DMX Merchandise:

    • Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, Etsy
    • Music Stores: Local record stores and online retailers specializing in hip-hop music
    • Official Websites: Keep an eye on the official websites of record labels and DMX’s estate for potential future releases.

    DMX’s music and story are a testament to the power of overcoming adversity and expressing oneself authentically. His legacy serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that through music, we can find strength, connection, and ultimately, redemption.


    No lyrics