From Reggaeton to R&B: How Moffa Is Representing Puerto Rico Through Different Genres

If you’re into perreo at the club, his music is for you.

Photo Courtesy of Guerrera PR

Moffa began his artistic journey at just eight years old. His passion bloomed while attending Puerto Rico’s Conservatory of Music shortly after his teacher told his father that he had a great voice. At the Conservatory of Music, he mastered the piano, found love in music theory, and grew into his voice, shaping him into the rising artist today. It took only one studio session; he hasn’t stopped creating unconventional, genre-bending sounds since. 

While initially experimenting with Reggaeton, the Puerto Rican musician has also ventured into R&B, Pop, and Afrobeats, including a live acoustic session of his hit songs. He has also collaborated with notable Latin artists such as Manuel Turizo, Karol G, and Young Martino. We sat down with Moffa to discuss his inspirations and culture, his recent single “Llorando en Chanel,” and what we can expect next from the up-and-coming musician. The new single is now available for streaming on all major platforms.

What inspires you? 

I studied in Puerto Rico for about eight years, then focused on music for around three years in the genres of R&B, Pop, and Reggaeton. When composing my songs, I am inspired by love, including the break-ups and all the ups and downs of love, and I try to relay that into my music. 

Who first inspired you to start making music? 

It was actually a teacher in high school who told my father that I was able to sing well and that he should take me to audition for choir. I also never really visualized myself in a typical 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. job. 

Where have you performed so far? 

I perform in Colombia with other artists and in Miami but with other artists as well. I’ve also performed on my island, in Puerto Rico. 

What is your first solo show coming up this week? How do you feel about it? 

It’s going to be my first solo show, and it’s in Miami. I don’t feel nervous, but I know that there is obviously a bit of nerve there because it’s my first-ever solo show outside of my island. It’s an unplugged concert as well, so it’s just me and the musicians. I feel great, I feel amazing, and I’m very excited.

How did your culture in Puerto Rico influence your music? 

Most people think I grew up listening to Reggaeton and Hip Hop, but I actually grew up listening to classical music. I didn’t listen to Reggaeton until about 7th or 9th grade. I think classical music has had an influence on my music because it helps me write a story within my music. When I first started listening to Reggaeton, it was like love at first sight. I love Reggaeton, and while it’s not my favorite genre to perform, I think it’s an easy one to perform. 

What would you say is your favorite genre? 

R&B.

Who are your favorite R&B artists? 

Justin Timberlake, Ne-Yo, Charlie Puth, and Bryson Tiller. They inspire me and inspire the sound and beat of my music. 

Who would you love to collaborate with the most? 

In the U.S., I’d love to collaborate with Charlie Puth. In Latin America, it would have to be Sebastian Yatra. 

Photo Courtesy of Guerrera PR

What do you want people to feel when they listen to your music? 

My music is like a carousel of emotions. I want them to feel free and to do whatever they want with my music. I want them to just be themselves and find their own way to relate to it. 

Could you tell me about the new single that you just released? 

“Llorando en Chanel” is the new single that I just released. The song is about a love triangle. It’s an R&B song, and it’s my first time creating music with this approach. It’s a totally different approach to my other music and a completely new sound. When I was at the studio, we experimented with new beats, and I loved it, so we focused on those types of beats. It’s my first track of the year, so it’s a good step forward. It’s refreshing and different from my usual type of music. 

Will you be performing the song at your concert? 

I will perform the acoustic version of the song tomorrow in Miami during my first solo concert. 

Do you have any other music coming up? 

Yes, my next song is releasing at the end of the month. It’s also the same genre as “Llorando en Chanel,” so it’s R&B.

What do you think would be the best piece of advice for rising artists?

Patience and learning to stay calm in chaotic situations. It’s not easy to succeed as an artist; I would say it’s 90% talent and discipline and then 10% luck. So just be patient and take your time with your art; it’s all a process.