How Gangsta Changed the Caribbean Sound of Kapo, Ryan Castro & Fariana: ‘You Can Feel the Vibes’

Farianas 2024 album Underwater, nominated for this years Latin Grammy for Best Urban Music Album, features collaborations with Flo Rida, Sean Paul, El Alfa, and Oro Slido. The majority of the tracks, including the viral hit El Caballito, were produced by Gangsta, who has been instrumental in defining the sound of several leading Latin artists.

Gangsta first gained recognition through Kapos breakout tracks Ohnana and UWAIE. He contributed heavily to Kapos album Por Si Alguien Nos Escucha and worked on Ryan Castros albums Send and Hopi Send, including the collaborative track La Villa. The duo also teamed up on Dnde, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Colombia Hot 100 and remains in the charts top 20.

Reflecting on his success, Gangsta attributes it to the synergy he has with Ryan and Kapo: The rhythm aligns perfectly with them. The song has the right colors, he told Billboard Colombia.

Born Pedro Juan de la Osa Medrano in Cartagena, Gangsta wrote songs for Maluma, including 11 PM, and for the duo Rayo y Toby, whose track Calor is still a Colombian club favorite. His credits also include work with Camilo, Wisin, and Farruko, and he hopes to collaborate with Juanes, Carlos Vives, and Shakira in the future.

The Journey with Ryan Castro and Kapo

Gangsta first connected with Kapo in Jamaica while producing for Lion Fiah. Their collaboration on Ohnana became the foundation for Kapos international reach and introduced Colombian Afrobeats to a wider audience. Ryan Castro joined shortly after with a remix, leading to further collaborations, including the hit Dnde. Gangsta also joined Ryan on a creative camp in Curaao, contributing to the projects Send and Hopi Send.

Regarding the genre-crossing success of Dnde, Gangsta notes, Now is the time to create your own music. Authenticity connects with audiences. He highlights that both Kapo and Ryan share his musical intuition, focusing on rhythm, improvisation, and emotional resonance. The main difference lies in their vocal ranges and lyrical approach.

Expanding Sound and Global Influence

Gangsta has worked with emerging talents like Zaider and international names like Rels B, encouraging artists to step outside their comfort zones. His contributions to Wisins album El Sobreviviente WWW and Farrukos projects blend electronic and Afrobeats influences. Farruko was among the first to support the Ohnana remix, recognizing the genres potential.

Gangstas music is rooted in Jamaican and African rhythms, which he combines with Afro-Colombian styles like champeta. He aims to collaborate with Colombian stars such as J Balvin, Karol G, Juanes, Carlos Vives, and Shakira, as well as African artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid. He believes Afrobeats has global potential, connecting audiences across continents.

Signature Style and Musical Identity

Fans can identify Gangstas productions through the distinctive Caribbean-inspired drum patterns and rhythmic feel. He adds a personal taga little bird soundsymbolizing new beginnings and a unique touch in every song. This signature marks the start of a fresh musical experience in each track.

Partnership with Sony Music Publishing

Gangsta sees his deal with Sony Music Publishing as the culmination of a lifelong dream. The partnership has expanded his international presence and connected him with industry professionals who understand his sound and vision, helping solidify his name globally.

Gangsta's Musical Evolution and Global Impact: A Rising Star in Latin Music

The success of Gangsta’s recent work with prominent artists such as Fariana, Kapo, and Ryan Castro marks a defining moment in the Latin urban music scene. Gangsta's distinct blend of Jamaican, African, and Afro-Colombian rhythms is gaining traction worldwide, with collaborations spanning genres and countries. His influence on tracks like "Ohnana" and "Dónde" has reshaped the genre, proving that authenticity and rhythm resonate deeply with audiences. As he continues to evolve, his partnership with Sony Music Publishing further amplifies his global presence, bringing his unique sound to a broader audience.

Gangsta’s journey from Cartagena to international recognition highlights the power of cross-genre collaborations. His early work with Kapo set the stage for the global appeal of Colombian Afrobeats, while his production on Ryan Castro’s projects has cemented his place at the forefront of Latin urban music. As Gangsta himself notes, "now is the time to create your own music." This statement captures the essence of his success—embracing individuality while remaining rooted in cultural rhythms.

Looking ahead, Gangsta’s aspirations to collaborate with Latin music legends like Juanes, Karol G, and Shakira, as well as African stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid, reflect his belief in the global potential of Afrobeats. By merging distinct musical traditions, Gangsta is helping to shape a new, more inclusive sound that transcends borders and connects audiences worldwide. His work is a testament to the growing power of genre fusion and the evolving landscape of Latin music.

Sources:

• How Gangsta Transformed the Sound of Kapo, Ryan Castro & Fariana: ‘You Can Feel the Caribbean’

Author: Grace Ellison
Grace Ellison is a journalist focusing on environmental issues and sustainability. She has experience publishing international reports and participating in documentary projects.