Colombian Manuel Turizo’s New Album 201 Is a Love Letter to Latin America

Colombian star Manuel Turizo, known for his captivating voice and popular songs, introduces 201. This album feels very personal to him. It celebrates his origins and welcomes the Variety in Latin American music.

A Journey from Montería to the Global Stage

Manuel Turizo’s journey from Montería to the global stage is a testament to his personal connection with his music. In a few years, the Colombian singer turned into a global star, and his fans love his hit songs and mix of musical styles. His fourth album, 201, is a deep dive into the sounds and stories that formed him as an artist, making his music even more relatable to his audience.

Named after the apartment number where he grew up in Montería, Colombia, 201 is more than just a number. It’s a symbol of Turizo’s roots and the journey that led him to where he is today. As Turizo told W Magazine, “This new era is inspired by the folklore and culture of where I come from.” The album features salsa, vallenato, and even Mexican cumbia, each track a love letter to Latin America’s diverse soundscape.

Turizo’s rise began in 2017 during Colombia’s reggaeton boom, alongside artists like J Balvin and Karol G.. Still, he quickly distinguished himself with a tropical twist on the genre, thanks in part to his brother Julián, who co-wrote and played ukulele in early hits like “Una Lady Como Tú.” The familial bond remains strong; Julián continues collaborating with Turizo onstage and in the studio.

With 201, Turizo shows his growth as an artist, mixing his well-known reggaeton sound with many different styles. This album reflects his personal journey and honors the area that influenced him. The production process was a labor of love, with Turizo and his team meticulously crafting each track to ensure it captured the essence of his musical journey.

A Tapestry of Latin American Sounds

Turizo’s latest album is a vibrant tapestry of Latin American sounds, celebrating the rich musical traditions of the region. Each track explores a classic genre, from salsa to vallenato, in a new and refreshing way, showcasing the diversity and richness of Latin American music.

One special track is “Sígueme Besando Así.” It is a sensual salsa song that respects the sounds of Cali and Cartagena. Turizo used these musical elements to honor his origins. The aim was to connect with rhythms that have long shaped Colombian music. Another highlight, “La Ex de Mi Amigo,” features vallenato star Elder Dayán Díaz and nods to Colombian icon Diomedes Díaz, whom Turizo compared to Michael Jackson in his global impact.

In an interview with W Magazine, Turizo described how many of the album’s songs began as traditional vallenato compositions before being reshaped into different genres. This approach is evident in “De Lunes a Lunes,” a soulful track that evolved into a Mexican cumbia with the help of Grupo Frontera.

Even Turizo’s global collaborations reflect his commitment to blending styles. “Qué Pecao” infuses bachata with an Afrobeats twist, showcasing rising Colombian artist Kapo. These tracks demonstrate Turizo’s ability to innovate while remaining rooted in tradition, bridging the past and present in a fresh yet timeless way.

From Shakira to Global Stardom

Turizo’s career soared in 2023 when he worked with Shakira on the famous song “Copa Vacía.” This collaboration not only introduced him to a wider audience but also solidified his position as a rising star in Latin pop. W Magazine mentioned that Shakira, from Colombia’s Barranquilla coast, shares Turizo’s dedication to celebrating their roots.

Turizo’s charm draws people worldwide. Many notice his lively shows, often when he skips a shirt. He jokingly accepts his image as a sex symbol and says, “Let them see me how they want to see me.” Admiration from fans means a lot to him.

Turizo dreams of collaborating with artists beyond America. Bruno Mars is at the top of his list. Turizo feels immensely impressed by Mars’s exploration of new music styles, which excites him. Mars’s musical style fits well with that.

Building Bridges Through Music

He imagines the record as music for life’s special moments, from happy family parties to deep thoughts late at night about love and sadness. He told W Magazine, “I want this album to be there when you enjoy yourself with others.”

But Turizo’s ambitions don’t continue beyond. He’s already planning a world tour next year, with stops in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. As he continues to grow as an artist, he remains committed to connecting with fans through music that celebrates their shared heritage and experiences.

“I’ve spent eight years of my life dedicating myself to this,” Turizo said. “And I’m working to grow. I want to keep having fun. I want to show the ideas in my head and keep connecting with people who like what I do.”

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With 201, Turizo reaffirms his place as one of Latin America’s most innovative artists and sets the stage for a career that transcends borders.