Yandel Highlights 5 Must-Listen Tracks from His New Album ‘ELYTE’
Yandel continues to solidify his status as one of reggaeton’s elite artists with the release of his eighth solo studio album, ELYTE. Staying true to the genre that made him a household name, the Puerto Rican artist blends old-school reggaeton with modern elements across the album’s 19 tracks. Notable collaborators on ELYTE include some of reggaeton’s biggest names, such as Tego Calderón, J Balvin, Feid, Myke Towers, Farruko, and Blessd.
Reflecting on his career, Yandel shared his thoughts with Billboard about how his music has transcended over time. “I feel blessed that my music has managed to connect with people at different stages of my career,” he said. “I always strive to evolve while staying true to my essence, making sure my music continues to resonate with the public.”
ELYTE follows Yandel’s previous albums, including Resistencia (2023), Quien Contra Mi 2 (2020), and De Líder a Leyenda (2013), the latter of which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums chart. The release of ELYTE also coincides with Yandel’s participation in the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week, taking place in Miami Beach from October 14-18. During the event, Yandel will discuss the evolution and future of reggaeton alongside other key figures in the genre.
As part of the album’s launch, Yandel breaks down five essential tracks from ELYTE, providing insight into the creative process and significance behind each song.
1. “Reggaetón Malandro” feat. Tego Calderón
Produced by Nesty La Mente Maestra, this track captures the essence of reggaeton’s golden age. For Yandel, working on this song brought back memories of when the genre was raw and full of energy. Teaming up with reggaeton pioneer Tego Calderón was a highlight for Yandel. “Collaborating with Tego was an honor,” he said. “Listening to the final track felt like reliving that era and continuing to contribute to the legacy of urban music.”
2. “Old School” feat. Farruko
This nostalgic track takes listeners back to the early days of reggaeton in Puerto Rico. Yandel and Farruko reflect on their shared roots in the genre, capturing the spirit of reggaeton’s beginnings. “With Farruko, everything sounds great. He was the perfect collaborator for this song, and the result was spectacular,” Yandel noted.
3. “Los Icons”
Produced by Tainy, this track was recorded in Los Angeles and has a distinct energy that Yandel says made it a defining piece of ELYTE. “Everything just clicked in the studio that day,” he recalled. “This song speaks to both the roots of reggaeton and how far it has evolved.”
4. “ELYTE”
The album’s opening track, “ELYTE” sets the tone for the entire project. Yandel describes it as an introduction to the album’s sound and vibe. “This song represents where I am right now,” he explained. “I wanted listeners to feel a special connection from the very first moment.”
5. “Delincuente” feat. Myke Towers
The first single released from the album, “Delincuente” is an upbeat and lively track that came together naturally, thanks to Yandel’s strong friendship with Myke Towers. “Working with Myke is easy,” Yandel said. “We have great chemistry, and this track is a testament to that.”
With ELYTE, Yandel proves once again why he remains a central figure in reggaeton, blending tradition with innovation while maintaining his unmistakable sound.
