There are artists who catch a moment, and then there are artists who build eras. Vakero falls firmly in the second category. A legend in Dominican urban music, a Latin Grammy nominated artist, an actor, husband, and father, Vakero continues to evolve while staying rooted in where he comes from. In this conversation, we covered legacy, family, fashion, responsibility, and what it really means to grow with purpose.
Fresh off taking the stage at the Prudential Center in New Jersey, Vakero reflected on what moments like that mean at this point in his career. Stepping onto a stage of that magnitude is not just about the performance, it is about perspective. For him, it represents decades of work, sacrifice, and consistency that started long before the bright lights and packed arenas. Vakero was raised in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, a place that shaped both his character and his sound. His childhood experiences there laid the foundation for his voice as an artist and as a man. Those early years are deeply embedded in his music, his worldview, and his sense of responsibility to speak for people who are often overlooked.
When asked about his place in Dominican urban music, Vakero did not shy away from the conversation. Active since the 1990s, he is undeniably one of the pioneers of the genre. At a time when Dominican urban music was still finding its identity, he was already carving space, taking risks, and opening doors that many artists walk through today. His longevity speaks to his adaptability, his authenticity, and his refusal to follow trends without purpose. One of the most interesting moments in the interview came when we talked about work outside of music. Vakero shared that he has never worked a traditional job. Music has always been his calling and his profession. That kind of commitment is rare and it underscores just how deeply he believed in his path, even before the industry caught up.
Beyond music, Vakero has become known for his bold and expressive fashion choices. He sees fashion as an extension of his artistry, another language to communicate who he is. Whether on stage or off, his style reflects confidence, individuality, and freedom. For him, fashion is not about labels, it is about expression. A powerful part of the conversation centered on beauty standards, particularly within Dominican culture. Vakero made it clear that he does not place pressure on his wife to conform to unrealistic beauty expectations. No surgeries, no wigs, no extras required. He values natural beauty and authenticity, a stance that challenges norms many Dominican women feel pressured to meet. It was a refreshing and honest take that highlighted his respect for women and his commitment to healthy partnership.
Family is central to Vakero’s life. He is the father of 11 children and openly shares that his goal is to have 12. While that number may surprise some, for him it is about legacy, love, and building something that extends far beyond music. Fatherhood grounds him and influences the way he moves through the world. Vakero has also stepped into acting, including his role in a film alongside Manny Pérez. He spoke highly of Manny, calling him an incredible actor and a generous collaborator who has helped him grow in this new space. The respect was clear and the experience has opened new creative doors for Vakero.
The conversation also touched on Dominican pop culture moments, including the reality show La Casa de Alofoke. Vakero declared himself proudly Team Fruta and explained why. He described Fruta as a genuinely good person with strong values, someone who represents integrity in spaces that often reward chaos over character. Staying connected to the next generation is important to Vakero. He has worked with younger artists like J. Noa and sees collaboration as a way to keep the culture moving forward. He is not interested in gatekeeping, he is interested in growth.
Looking ahead, Vakero shared exclusive details about what is coming next. He is working on a new album slated for 2026 with Dominican producer Maffio, a project that promises to blend experience, innovation, and global sound. It is a collaboration that feels both strategic and organic, rooted in shared vision. We even touched on lighter topics, including which part of the Dominican Republic has the best women, a debate that always sparks laughter and pride. But the conversation always came back to purpose. Vakero emphasized the importance of using one’s voice to speak for the less fortunate in our countries. For him, success means nothing if it is not tied to responsibility.
Vakero’s story is one of consistency, courage, and evolution. He is not just a pioneer of Dominican urban music, he is a living example of how legacy is built by staying true, staying present, and staying human.