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Anuel AA

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Anuel AA
Born
Emmanuel Gazmey Santiago

(1992-11-26) November 26, 1992 (age 33)
Carolina, Puerto Rico
Occupation(s)Rapper, vocalist
Years active2010–present
Known forLatin trap music, albums Real Hasta la Muerte, Emmanuel, Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren

Emmanuel Gazmey Santiago (born November 26, 1992), professionally recognized as Anuel AA, is a Puerto Rican rapper and vocalist. Often referred to as "The God of Latin trap" by both himself and prominent Latin artists, his work frequently incorporates samples and reinterpretations from tracks that were popular during his formative years. Anuel AA is a polarizing figure within the Latin music scene, largely due to legal controversies and disputes with fellow Puerto Rican rappers Cosculluela, Ivy Queen, Arcángel, as well as American rapper 6ix9ine. Raised in Carolina, Puerto Rico, he started recording music at the age of fourteen and began sharing his songs online in 2014. Subsequently, he signed with the Latin branch of Rick Ross's Maybach Music Group. His 2016 mixtape Real Hasta la Muerte received positive acclaim, but his career was interrupted by a 30-month prison term for unlawful firearm possession. Notably, he completed his first studio album entirely while incarcerated, coinciding with the growing popularity of his musical genre.

Anuel AA's debut album, also named Real Hasta la Muerte, was released on July 17, 2018—the same day he was freed from prison. The album garnered both critical praise and commercial success. Within half a year, he secured positions on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in Latino music. In July 2019, he unveiled "China", a collaborative effort featuring Daddy Yankee, Karol G, Ozuna, and J Balvin, which achieved international acclaim. This was followed by the popular track "Me Gusta", featuring Shakira. His sophomore album, Emmanuel, was released on May 29, 2020. Later that year, Anuel AA hinted at retiring to focus on family and personal relationships but soon returned with the joint album Los Dioses alongside Ozuna. His third studio project, Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren, arrived on November 26, 2021, containing 16 tracks. The fourth album, LLNM2, serving as a follow-up to "Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren," was released on December 9, 2022.

Early life

Anuel AA was raised in Carolina, Puerto Rico. His father, José Gazmey, held the position of vice president at Sony Music Entertainment’s Puerto Rican A&R division and collaborated with salsa legends such as Héctor Lavoe and the Fania All-Stars. Although Anuel AA does not consider himself a salsa enthusiast, his father’s involvement in studio production sparked his passion for the music industry. After his father lost his job when Anuel was fifteen years old, he became what Rolling Stone described as a "son of the streets."

Of mixed Afro–Puerto Rican and White Puerto Rican heritage, Anuel AA has openly discussed facing racial discrimination since childhood. He admired Tupac Shakur, adopting elements of his style and jewelry. Casper Mágico, a childhood friend and frequent collaborator, co-wrote and performed on the successful track "Te Boté". Reflecting on his background, Anuel AA stated: "My music is my soul speaking... It carries a lot of emotion, a lot of pain. It reflects my experiences growing up en la calle [in the streets]."

Early career

Anuel AA embarked on his music journey at the age of fourteen and began sharing his tracks online by eighteen, starting in 2010. His songs quickly amassed millions of streams, capturing the interest of American rapper Rick Ross, who subsequently signed him to the Latin branch of Maybach Music Group. In February 2016, he released the mixtape Real Hasta la Muerte, which received favorable reviews from critics. The success of this project paved the way for a guest appearance on Ozuna's 2017 album Odisea.

2016–2018: Imprisonment and Release of Real Hasta la Muerte

In April 2016, Anuel AA was apprehended in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico and sentenced to 30 months in federal prison due to illegal firearm possession. While he was incarcerated, Latin trap experienced a surge in popularity, and his music continued to thrive externally. Remarkably, he recorded much of his debut album via phone calls and finalized it during a compulsory stay at a halfway house in Miami.

His first album, Real Hasta la Muerte, was launched on July 17, 2018, coinciding with his release from prison. The album was recognized by Rolling Stone as one of the Best Latin Albums of 2018, highlighting his ability to blend pop sensibilities with mainstream Latin pop appeal. It reached number 42 on the Billboard 200 chart and secured the top position on the US Top Latin Albums chart. The album's debut attracted considerable media coverage; Anuel admitted he was initially unprepared for interviews after spending over two years behind bars. In August 2018, he achieved his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Bebe," a collaboration with American rapper 6ix9ine.

Within six months following Real Hasta la Muerte, Anuel AA appeared on eleven singles charting on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs list, including "Ella Quiere Beber" alongside American vocalist Romeo Santos. Additionally, he teamed up with Nicki Minaj and Bantu for "Familia," featured on the Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse soundtrack released in December 2018. In January 2019, he unveiled "Secreto" with Colombian artist Karol G, confirming their romantic involvement through the accompanying music video. This single climbed to number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached number five on the US Hot Latin Songs charts. The video's portrayal of them as a "power couple" drew parallels to iconic duos such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z as well as Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.

2019–2020: Breakthrough with "China" and Release of Emmanuel

July 2019 saw Anuel AA release "China," a collaborative effort featuring Daddy Yankee, Karol G, Ozuna, and J Balvin. The track incorporates a sample from Shaggy's 2000 hit "It Wasn't Me," which Anuel chose to reinvent as a classic homage. In an interview with XXL, he recalled that "China" was a popular club anthem during his youth. The song debuted at number two on Billboard's Hot Latin Songs chart and topped both the Latin Digital Songs and Latin Streaming Songs charts with 1,000 downloads and 14.1 million streams respectively. Its music video earned recognition as one of Rolling Stone's 10 Best Latin Music Videos of July. Later that year, Anuel featured on Nicky Jam's single "Whine Up" from the album Íntimo, released in November 2019.

In January 2020, Anuel collaborated with Shakira on "Me Gusta," which interpolates Inner Circle's 1992 hit "Sweat (A La La La La Long)." Rolling Stone described it as "a relaxed lover’s rock tune infused with subtle dembow rhythms." He also appeared on Bad Bunny's 2020 album YHLQMDLG contributing to the track "Está Cabrón Ser Yo." On April 3, 2020, Anuel released "3 de Abril," reflecting on his arrest and time in prison; Rolling Stone termed it a "sobering tribute." That same month, he dropped "Follow" featuring Karol G, recorded entirely during Miami’s COVID-19 quarantine.

On May 27, 2020, Anuel announced his sophomore album titled Emmanuel, which was released two days later after being delayed due to the pandemic from its original April date. To promote the release amid coronavirus restrictions limiting traditional events, he arranged three luxury yachts off Miami’s Isle of Normandy named Emmanuel, each blasting his music loudly—offering an innovative alternative to club parties. This double album contains 22 tracks and includes collaborations with artists such as Bad Bunny, Enrique Iglesias, Travis Barker, Tego Calderón, Karol G, Lil Wayne, Farruko, Yandel, and Ñengo Flow. The album title reflects the meaning of his own name—"God with us"—intended to radiate positivity representing his life through music.

2020 – mid-2021: Retirement Speculations and Los Dioses Collaboration

In November 2020, Anuel AA hinted at retiring from music via Instagram posts. On November 19th, he released "Me Contagié 2," addressing themes of depression, personal challenges, and how his career affected his young son who encouraged him to quit music. The track concluded with the line "In these Grammys, I retire," leaving fans uncertain about his future intentions.

On January 22, 2021, Anuel AA teamed up with Ozuna to release their joint album Los Dioses, consisting of twelve tracks.

By June 2021, Anuel’s manager Frabián Elí revealed plans for a fourth studio album set for July that would focus heavily on trap with minimal reggaeton elements; however, its release was delayed. During this period, Anuel featured on the remix of "Mr Jones" from Pop Smoke's deluxe edition album Faith, which dropped on July 31st.

August brought new releases including "Los de Siempre" alongside Chris Jedi and "23 Preguntas," a song dedicated to ex-partner Karol G. The video for “23 Preguntas” revealed his upcoming album title as Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren. In September, he collaborated with Jhayco on "Ley Seca" from Jhayco’s album Timelezz.

December 2021 marked a milestone as Anuel became the first Latin artist to partner with UFC for promoting a sports-themed album celebrating influential figures from culture and sports. His label Real Hasta la Muerte served as presenting sponsor for UFC Fight Replay during UFC 269’s main card event. This initiative incorporated visuals and branding connected to his third studio album,Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren.

Late 2021: Release of Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren

On September 22nd, Anuel AA confirmed completion of his album Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren. October saw the release of its lead single “Dictadura.” In November he collaborated on BZRP Music Session No.46 with Argentine producer Bizarrap. On November 11th he unveiled the second single “Leyenda,” followed by revealing the full tracklist on November 17th through jerseys worn by his basketball team. The final single “Súbelo,” featuring Myke Towers and Jhayco was released November 18th. The full album dropped on his twenty-ninth birthday featuring sixteen songs including guest appearances by Eladio Carrión, Mora, Myke Towers, and Jhayco.

2022: Continuation with LLNM2

Starting January 1st, Anuel AA appeared alongside Dominican rapper Rochy RD on “Los Illuminaty” while confirming plans for a sequel to Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren. The lead single is anticipated to be “Si Tú Me Busca,” featuring Dominican rapper Yailin La Más Viral. On May 20th he collaborated with Chris Jedi, Chencho Corleone, and Ñengo Flow delivering the international hit “La Llevo al Cielo,” followed by an electro-pop track titled “¿Qué Nos Paso?”.

Anuel initially announced an EP named Me Fui de Gira, but later integrated it into the full-length project Las Leyendas Nunca Mueren 2. The first single from this combined effort was “Malo,” created in partnership with Puerto Rican artists Zion and Randy.

On February 18th he took part in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game.

2023: Promotion of Rompecorazones

Early in 2023 saw Anuel AA embark on his U.S.-based "Legends Never Die Tour" while confirming an upcoming EP titled Rompecorazones.

March featured release of “Más Rica Que Ayer” produced by Puerto Rican duo Mambo Kingz alongside DJ Luian, amassing over 275 million views on YouTube. He subsequently collaborated with Maluma for “Diablo, Que Chimba.” April included partnerships with Eladio Carrión for “Triste Verano” followed by “[Mi Exxx]” featuring reggaeton duo Wisin & Yandel.

On May 5th came “Mejor Que Yo” alongside DJ Luian and Mambo Kingz dedicated to ex-girlfriend Karol G. July included a feature on Rochy RD’s “Milloneta,” performed at the Heat Latin Music Awards that year. On May 28th he joined forces with Jay Wheeler, Hades66, Dei V, and Bryant Myers for a remix of "Pacto."

In October 2023 Anuel postponed releasing Rompecorazones due to emergency surgery but soon after dropped “OA,” collaborating with Spanish rapper Quevedo, Maluma along with producers Mambo Kingz and DJ Luian. November saw him team up again with Ozuna for “Pa Ti Estoy” off Ozuna's album Cosmo. December marked release of single “Luces Tenues,” produced by DJ Luian and Mambo Kingz.

2024: Upcoming Projects

At the beginning of 2024,Ozuna announced plans for a follow-up collaborative record with Anuel AA after their previous work on Los Dioses. Later that year during a live stream hosted by Adin Ross via Kick, Anuel confirmed that his album Rompecorazones remains forthcoming. In February both artists featured together on Chris Jedi’s single "Bad Boy", produced alongside Gaby Music and Dei V. Additionally in February Anuel appeared on Jennifer Lopez’s deluxe remix edition from her album This Is Me... Now, specifically on track “Rebound,” while also releasing “Tacos Gucci” from ‘‘Rompecorazones.’’

March included participation in a remix for Pressure 9X19’s "VVS Switch" alongside Puerto Rican rappers YOVNGCHIMI,Hades66,Luar La L,and CDobleta.

Late March featured another remix appearance alongside Jhayco and iZaak for "Bby Boo." On April fourth both Anuel AA and Bryant Myers contributed vocals to remix version of "No Te Quieren Conmigo," joining Gaby Music,Lunay,and Luar La L.

Mid-April announcements confirmed intentions to drop two albums within calendar year 2024. On April nineteenth he collaborated with Brytiago for track titled “Kilerito.” May third featured him alongside Casper Magico,Luar La L,and iZaak delivering single “[Toki].” Late June included participation in WYA (Remix Black and White) by J Abdiel & iZaak featuring Blessd & Pirlo.

Following this period saw release of “Razones” featuring Ozuna along with DJ Luian & Mambo Kingz production credits; July brought collaborations including Yovngchimi (“Baby Demon”)and Omar Courtz (“Serio con ese Q”).

On August thirtieth Anuel AA returned to reggaeton roots releasing “Shampoo de Coco.” On November fourteenth came collaboration titled “DEPORTIVO” alongside Blessd. December twenty-fifth featured him appearing on "Popa (Remix)" together with rapper Ice Spice for deluxe edition of Y2K’s ‘‘I’m Just A Girl’’ album.

Musical style and influences

Template:Listen Acknowledged by XXL magazine as one of Latin trap’s pioneering figures,Anuel AA is distinguished by his signature adlib resembling gunfire sounds ("BRRR"). His songwriting frequently explores themes involving sexuality, criminal life,and street culture.[1] Paul Simpson from AllMusic noted that while explicit content limits traditional radio exposure,it enhances streaming performance aided by strong social media engagement.[1] Gary Suarez writing for ‘‘Vice’’ characterized his debut album ‘‘Real Hasta la Muerte’’ as fusing trap anthems with reggaeton rhythms.[2] Despite projecting a hardened persona,songs like "Culpables"and "Secreto" showcase emotional depth.[3] The phrase ‘‘bebecita,’’ popularized by him through lyrics and social media platforms,is now synonymous within reggaeton culture as well as emblematic of his relationship with Karol G.[4][5]

Anuel AA cites rapper Tupac Shakur among his early hip hop inspirations.[6] His work pays homage to both U.S.and Latin artists through sampling—for instance,“China” incorporates Shaggy’s ‘‘It Wasn’t Me’’and Daddy Yankee’s ‘‘Ella Me Levantó,’’ while “Delincuente” samples Don Omar & Tego Calderón's ‘‘Bandoleros.’’[7] He has collaborated with American rappers such as Meek MillandGucci Mane, both sharing backgrounds involving incarceration.[2] He admires Meek Mill’s lyrical honesty.[6] Additionally,having expressed appreciation for bachata singerZacarías Ferreíra, Dominican rapperel Alfa, English singer-songwriterEd Sheeran,and interest in working alongside artists likePost MaloneandBillie Eilish.[8][6]

Controversies

On September15th ,2018 ,Anuel AA released a diss track titled ‘‘Intocable’’ aimed at rapper Cosculluela.The song attracted widespread criticism due to profane language and derogatory comments targeting homosexuality as well as people living with HIV/AIDS.Notably,it disparaged model/TV host La Taína because she is HIV-positive.The backlash led to cancellation of his October12 concert at Coliseo de Puerto Rico by production team including lead producer Paco López.Anuel later issued an apology describing it as ‘‘the worst mistake’’of his career expressing remorse toward those offended including LGBTQ+ community,HIV/AIDS patients ,La Taína,and victims affected by Hurricane Maria.

In April2019 ,he stirred controversy after questioning Ivy Queen’s status as ‘‘Queen of Reggaeton’’ via Instagram posts,arguing she had not produced hits in over seven years while suggesting Karol G could be considered instead.This sparked public exchanges where Ivy Queen defended her pioneering contributions within the genre.

In December2023 ,a feud erupted between Anuel AA and Arcángel following Arcángel’s diss track ‘‘Feliz Navidad8,’’ which targeted Anuel,Rochy RD,and Ozuna.The dispute reportedly originated after Anuel ended business ties with longtime manager Frabián Eli ,Arcángel’s brother-in-law.Anuel responded releasing ‘‘Glock,Glock,Glock,’’ claiming Arcángel cannot generate hits without Bad Bunny.In turn ,Arcángel fired back with ‘‘El Narcan,’’ accusing Anuel of substance abuse.The rivalry escalated when Anuel released ‘‘Arcángel Es Chota,’’ referencing Arcángel’s domestic battery arrest in2019 while involving Karol G & Cosculluela lyrically.Anuel also criticized Arcángel publicly via Instagram noting poor reception toward Arcángel’s album ‘’Sentimiento,Elegancia y Más Maldad’’and alleging Arcángel relies heavily upon collaborations with Bad Bunny to sustain relevance.Arcángel countered releasing third diss ‘‘3 a0,’’ defending Karol G & Feid while mentioning Anuel’s former partner Yailin La Más Viral.

Relationships

Anuel AA is father to three children: son Pablo Anuel,a daughter Gianella,and another daughter named Cattleya born from marriage to ex-wifeYailin La Más Viral.

He met Colombian singerKarol G during August2018 filming their music video ‘‘Culpables,’’ shortly after completing prison sentence.They made their relationship public in January2019 before becoming engaged in April2019.The couple parted ways in March2021.

Early in2022 ,Anuel began dating Dominican rapperYailin La Más Viral, marrying her in June that year.They separated by February2023 ,with Yailin giving birth to their daughter Cattleya in March2023.

By mid-2023 ,Anuel has been linked romantically to Venezuelan Laury Saavedra.In early2024 they announced expecting their first child together,a daughter.On January23rd ,2025 ,Anuel became father for fourth time upon birth of daughter Emmaluna.

Politics

Anuel AA publicly supported Donald Trump during Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign delivering speech at rally held in Johnstown,Pennsylvania.

Legal issues

On April3rd ,2016 ,Anuel AA was detained at Metropolitan Detention Center in Guaynabo along with three others after authorities discovered three pistols(one stolen),nine magazines,and152 rounds.He accepted plea agreement related to firearm possession charges resulting in30-month federal incarceration.During imprisonment,the #FreeAnuel movement gained momentum among fans while he continued releasing music recorded over phone calls.

He endured90 days solitary confinement following altercation involving another inmate.At trial he stated lyrics did not represent true character;judge Aida Delgado-Colón remarked she had never heard his recordings.In March2018 ,he was transferred to state prison facility in Miami.Talking to Billboard magazine he credited listening to radio broadcasts during incarceration as inspiration behind songwriting.His spiritual journey included Bible reading attributing talent/blessings directly to God.

NFTs

On June10th ,2022 ,Anuel entered NFT space launching personal collection becoming among first Latin rappers engaging this market.He also became first Latin artist collaborating officially with Ultimate Fighting Championship(UFC) producing sports-themed conceptual album.

His NFT offerings include physical collectibles plus exclusive experiences such as limited merchandise access,event invitations(album launch parties),studio visits,and private listening sessions.

Discography

Main article: Anuel AA discography

Solo studio albums

Collaborative studio albums

Tours

Filmography

Appearances in Film and Television
Year Title Character Details Ref.
2021–2022 30 Days with: Anuel Himself Part of YouTube Originals [10]

Awards and nominations

Award Year Nominee(s) Category Outcome Ref.
American Music Awards 2020 Emmanuel Favorite Album – Latin Template:Nom [11]
Billboard Music Awards 2019 Anuel AA Top Latin Artist Template:Nom [12]
Real Hasta la Muerte Top Latin Album Template:Nom
2020 Anuel AA Top Latin Artist Template:Nom
"China" Top Latin Song Template:Nom
"Otro Trago (Remix)" Template:Nom
2021 Anuel AA Top Latin Artist Template:Nom Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; refs with no name must have content
Emmanuel Top Latin Album Template:Nom

External links

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named allmusicbio
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named notoriousreturn
  3. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named successstory
  4. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named slang
  5. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named bebecita
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named xxl
  7. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named oldschool
  8. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named obsessedvice
  9. ↑ https://www.instagram.com/anuelworldtour/p/C6U1USwtiQU/ (accessed 2024-05-06)
  10. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL67Ea3JOnRMwrgn59d7w_ZGbz5y3pAog0 (accessed 2022-10-09)
  11. ↑ https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/awards/9472722/2020-amas-nominations
  12. ↑ https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/awards/8509655/billboard-music-awards-2019-winners-list
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