Latin music legend DY (Daddy Yankee) is officially back—two years after announcing his retirement. And this time, he's joining forces with HYBE.
🔥 HYBE Latin America Welcomes DY + New Track 'Sonríele' Drops
On July 11, HYBE Latin America revealed that it has signed DY, one of the most successful artists in Latin music history. Alongside the announcement, DY released his brand-new single Sonríele.
DY rose to global fame with hits like Gasolina, which helped spark the global reggaeton movement. He became a household name through Despacito—his iconic collaboration with Luis Fonsi—which stayed at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 16 weeks.
🎤 From Retirement to Revival—HYBE and Bang Si-hyuk Made It Happen
DY had retired from the stage in 2023, declaring, "I'm finally seeing the finish line," as he hinted at a new chapter in his personal journey.
But HYBE didn't give up. The company reportedly worked persistently to bring him on board—with HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk personally meeting with DY to share their mutual passion for music and long-term vision.
The result is Sonríele—a Spanish track meaning "Give a Smile." The song carries a hopeful message: appreciate the little things, and never give up.
🌎 HYBE Expands Latin Reach with DY and Star-Studded Roster
HYBE expects DY's addition to further strengthen its influence in the Latin music scene. The company has already signed artists like Meme del Real of Café Tacvba and Adrián Cota.
Other notable names under HYBE Latin America include actor-singer Juan Daniel Garcia Treviño and América Fernández, all actively supported across music, acting, and global promotions.
🎬 New Global Projects in the Works
HYBE Latin America is also ramping up original content production.
Next month, they will launch a reality survival show for a new five-member global boy group titled Santos Bravos.
Meanwhile, a band audition program titled Pase a la Fama, co-produced with U.S. Spanish-language broadcaster Telemundo, began airing in June and is gaining traction with viewers.