ZION: The Iconic Voice of Reggaetón
With a sound that defined a generation, Zion has become a symbol of Latin music’s golden era. From heartfelt lyrics to genre-defining hits, he’s stayed true to his roots while evolving with the times. In this exclusive interview Zion opens up about growth, legacy, love, and what keeps his fire alive in 2025.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
You started with a sound that defined an entire era of reggaetón. How do you feel your music has evolved alongside you, as both an artist and a man?
I feel like I’ve grown in step with the genre. Just as reggaetón has matured, expanded, and evolved, so have I—both as a person and as a musician. It’s been a parallel journey. The genre shaped me in many ways, and in return, I’ve left my own mark on it. I’ve gone through personal growth, learned lessons, and every phase of my life has been reflected in my sound.
You’ve collaborated with many artists throughout your career. What do you look for before deciding to work with someone?
First and foremost, I need to genuinely like their music. That’s essential. No matter how big the paycheck, if I don’t vibe with what they’re doing creatively, I’ll say no. I’ve turned down many financially tempting collaborations just because I didn’t feel that authentic artistic connection. I respect music too much to work with someone just for clout or money. There has to be mutual respect and chemistry.
Was there ever a time you seriously thought of walking away from it all? What made you stay?
Honestly—many times. The industry isn’t easy, and there are moments of deep frustration, exhaustion, and doubt. But what always brings me back is the passion I have for music, and the faith I have in myself and in my project. Even when things get hard, I know deep down that this is my path. Music is not just my career—it’s my lifeline, my therapy, my voice.
Many fans describe your vibe as melodic, emotional, “romantic but street.” Where does that unique blend really come from?
I’ve always been a lover at heart. Even if things haven’t always gone my way in love, I still believe in it deeply. That emotional side, mixed with where I come from—Carolina, growing up between Vistamar and the Llorens projects—gave me a contrast that shaped my sound. It’s the softness of the heart mixed with the toughness of the streets. That duality is real in me, and it comes through in everything I do.
How do you experience the nostalgia of the early 2000s, when reggaetón was still underground? Do you miss anything from that time?
Definitely. I miss the vibe, the unity, and the energy of the fans back then. People danced with passion, with no shame. The movement felt more raw, more real. There was a deeper sense of community between artists—less ego, more brotherhood. And to make it, you really had to prove yourself musically. That hunger brought out something special in all of us. It was a beautiful time.
If you had to choose just one song of yours to introduce yourself to someone who doesn’t know you, which one would it be—and why?
“Perdóname“. That song is incredibly personal to me—I wrote it for my mother. It was featured on “Motivando a la Yal“, and in the music video, you see Voltio, Lennox, and me with our moms. It’s a song that brings out a lot of emotion in me because it was my way of apologizing to my mom for all the rough moments I put her through as a teenager. For the sleepless nights, the worry, the fear of not knowing what I’d become. I knew I couldn’t end up like my father—and that fear, that responsibility, kept me grounded. I couldn’t let my family down. That song, without needing much explanation, reveals a lot about who I am, my values, and my heart.
What inspires you today—musically and spiritually? What moves you when you sit down to write?
I need to feel something real. There has to be a muse. I need to be surrounded by people with good energy, positive vibes, and a creative mindset—inside and outside the studio. When I’m around people who believe in me, who are just as passionate and professional about their work, it sparks something in me. Inspiration flows when the environment is right. It’s about synergy.
Galore is a space to talk about beauty, authenticity, and style. What does “Latino Glamour” mean to you in 2025?
Thanks to designers like Willy Chavarría and Oscar de la Renta, we Latinos have been opening doors in the fashion industry and setting trends with our own voice. Right now, we’re in the global spotlight—not just in music, but in fashion too. And we’re proving we can stand shoulder to shoulder with anyone, even in spaces historically dominated by Europeans. We have the talent, the creativity, and the style. What we need is the confidence to own it. Latino glamour in 2025 is about daring to be seen, daring to be bold, and representing with authenticity. We’ve got the real flow—and it’s time the world recognizes that.
What’s your guilty pleasure song? That track you secretly love but people wouldn’t expect?
Sabrina Carpenter, haha. I love her as an artist. I really admire her work ethic—she’s not someone who blew up overnight. She’s been working hard for years to get to where she is, and her music is super catchy. She deserves her moment, and I’m happy to see her winning.
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Writer & Art Direction: Nicolas Martin Garcia (@garcias_official)
Photographer: Erika Zambrano (@erika_zambrano)
Videographer: Alex Albarran (@alex_recc)
Production Assistant: Robincal Fajardo (@robincalfajardo)
Grooming: Grace Brophy (@gracebrophymakeup)
Wardrobe Stylist: Stylist : Juan Castillo (@juancas_theroom)
