The Cuban reggaeton artist Yosvanis Arismin Sierra Hernández, widely known as Chocolate MC, recently shared insights into a pivotal moment in his career and speculated on the impact it might have had if he had moved to the United States during the peak of his hit "Guachineo." In an interview uploaded to YouTube by Urbano Yuri DJ, Chocolate expressed, "Had I come at that time... I wouldn't be performing where Bebeshito is now; no, man, I'd be singing at the White House garden."
Dubbed the "King of Reparto," Chocolate emphasized that "Guachineo" was a turning point in his musical journey. "It went viral without the Internet," he remarked. "Guachineo would have 300 million views. In Cuba, it was madness, and there was no Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. I just released it, and that was it. People shared it via Bluetooth," the musician explained.
Back in 2015, Chocolate was arrested while on the brink of a U.S. tour amidst the success of "Guachineo," during a performance in Bayamo, Granma. The arrest reportedly followed an incident where he allegedly threw a bottle at a police officer during a disagreement with a fan. He spent two years incarcerated in Cuba.
Once settled in the United States, Chocolate has faced significant challenges both personally and professionally, impacting his public image and musical career. In March 2024, he was arrested in Miami-Dade County on charges of domestic violence. Reports indicate that a woman accused him of hitting her in the face with a closed fist, resulting in swelling and bruising around her left eye. The arrest came after Chocolate refused to settle a hotel debt, prompting police involvement.
On April 5 of the same year, Chocolate was detained again in West Palm Beach, Florida. He faced accusations of kidnapping his former partner Hany Díaz, threatening her, and sexually assaulting her. Prior to his arrest, the singer went live to deny the allegations, though the details of the charges were widely circulated.
In May, further information emerged, revealing charges against Chocolate for sexual assault without severe injuries, kidnapping, firearm possession, aggravated assault, and sudden snatch theft. These stemmed from an alleged incident where he reportedly abducted his ex-girlfriend outside an apartment building and took her to Palm Beach County.
Ultimately, in August 2024, the artist was arrested once more in Miami for driving with a suspended license and having an outstanding warrant in another county. This arrest occurred less than a week after his release from a previous detention, adding another layer of controversy to his record.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chocolate MC's Legal Issues
What impact did "Guachineo" have on Chocolate MC's career?
"Guachineo" was a major turning point for Chocolate MC, marking his rise to fame. Despite the lack of social media platforms, the song went viral in Cuba, gaining immense popularity through Bluetooth sharing.
Why was Chocolate MC arrested in 2015?
Chocolate MC was arrested in 2015 following an incident where he allegedly threw a bottle at a police officer during a performance in Bayamo, Granma. This occurred during the height of his song "Guachineo" and resulted in a two-year incarceration in Cuba.
What legal challenges has Chocolate MC faced in the United States?
Since moving to the United States, Chocolate MC has encountered multiple legal issues, including charges of domestic violence, kidnapping, and sexual assault. These incidents have significantly impacted his public image and career.