Erick Brian Colón, once the sole Cuban member of the popular band CNCO, is determined to spotlight his heritage in his new solo career. The singer is diving into the Cuban "reparto" music style and is already planning a collaboration with Jacob Forever within this genre.
"I want to wholeheartedly embrace my Cuban roots," the 25-year-old artist shared during an interview with the Ecuadorian newspaper Expreso, following his recent tour in Ecuador, where he performed in Quito, Manta, and Guayaquil.
The cornerstone of this new chapter is "Efímero," a track released in late July alongside Cuban artists Dale Pututi and Nesty. With this song, Erick Brian fully immerses himself in a genre that, as he revealed, has been a part of his life long before his international fame.
"I've been listening to reparto even before my time with CNCO. There's a viral video of me dancing to 'El guachineo,' a song from this Cuban genre. That sound has always been part of my life," he recalled.
He now aims to introduce this sound to other Latin American nations, while preserving one of its most distinctive features: Cuban slang.
"I want to keep Cuban expressions, but also communicate more clearly what they mean. Every country has its identity, and I love for others to get to know and enjoy our slang," he explained.
As an example, he mentioned the phrase "te chivaste" used in "Efímero," which he interprets as "you went crazy for me, fell in love, or got lost with me."
The reparto style, primarily developed in Cuba's urban environment with a strong presence in Havana's neighborhoods, has been gaining international traction. Artists like Bebeshito have made it onto Billboard charts, while within Cuba, the genre continues to spark debates and criticisms among official figures and the artistic community.
For Erick Brian, this musical direction aligns with the challenge of building his own career after years as part of one of the most popular Latin boy bands of his generation.
"Having a solo tour in Latin America is basically starting from scratch. This is a different brand. Years have passed, I have my songs, and people come to the concerts to hear them. That means a lot to me," he acknowledged.
Regarding his former group, which announced its disbandment in July 2022 during the Premios Juventud, he maintains a grateful perspective.
"I will always say that CNCO was my school. I learned practically everything I know there, and I apply many of those lessons today. Now, it's a different story, and it also has its charm," he stated.
His 2026 Latin American tour has already visited Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Ecuador, with upcoming performances planned in Argentina.
As Erick Brian continues to pave his solo path, he has his next release ready: "Qué linda," another reparto track featuring Jacob Forever and Richard Morales.
"That's the vibe I'm on," the singer summarized about the direction he wants to take with his music. "I want to wholeheartedly embrace my Cuban roots."
Exploring Erick Brian Colón's Cuban Musical Journey
What genre is Erick Brian Colón focusing on in his solo career?
Erick Brian Colón is focusing on the Cuban "reparto" music style in his solo career.
Who are some artists Erick Brian Colón has collaborated with in his new music?
He has collaborated with Cuban artists Dale Pututi, Nesty, and plans to work with Jacob Forever and Richard Morales.
How does Erick Brian Colón plan to incorporate Cuban culture into his music?
He intends to incorporate Cuban culture into his music by preserving Cuban slang while making it understandable to wider audiences.