Curiosity and courage are what helped Sebastián Yatra transcend music to try his luck in the world of cinema. And he did so in Spanish as his hallmark. In 2022, he performed at the Academy Awards ceremony singing “Dos Oruguitas” —song from the ‘Encanto’ soundtrack—, one of the biggest achievements of his career, making Ibero-America proud.
“Spanish is emotion, it’s passion. The way it sounds has a lot of power and ends up influencing the way people are and act.” For Sebastián Yatra (Medellín, Colombia, 1994), this is one of the traits that distinguishes Ibero-America from the rest of the world. A language that creates culture and connects a multitude of countries, which came together at the latest edition of the Platino Awards —sponsored by Iberia— where this Colombian artist was the star of a musical performance. “Taking part in the Platino Awards is exciting. I’ve watched these awards for many years, and they represent the world of film in Latin America and Spain”, the singer admits.
“The Platino Awards enrich culture and the industry, its people, because projects are born from them”
And what better soundtrack to the Platino Awards than music by this Colombian artist. Through his performance, Yatra reminded those present of his role at the Academy Awards ceremony in 2022, a moment where Spanish reverberated around the world through his voice. A language that, says, helps create a much-needed support network, given the circumstances of some countries: “We’re not exactly economic powerhouses, especially in South America. When you realise that nothing is easy, you need to push yourself to pull things off. You get used to giving it your all.” And his view of talent connects with this: “For me —notes— it’s a combination of the skills you’re born with plus your efforts, discipline and hard work.”
The Platino Awards, which celebrate their tenth edition this year, have turned into a meeting place for Ibero-American talent. And Yatra celebrates their importance: “The Platino Awards enrich culture and the industry, its people, because projects are born from them.” This musician has been forging his relationship with film for some time, so he already feels part of these people. This artist from Medellín has even dared to act. From his cameo in The Queen of Flow to his role in Once Upon a Time... Happily Never After, which was a huge challenge for him: “It was my first experience acting for real. It helped me to continue exploring who I am as an artist.”
“Talent is a combination of the skills you’re born with plus your efforts, discipline and hard work”
Following that desire to explore and connect, Yatra has collaborated with some of the most renowned artists in Ibero-America: Daddy Yankee, Camilo, Morat, Aitana, Beret, Pablo Alborán… It’s a long list and, he admits, he couldn’t decide on a favourite: “I don’t have a star collaboration in my career. Each of the artists I’ve had the chance to record with in the studio or sing with live have left their mark and I’ve learnt something from all of them.” And what is the most important thing when working as a team? “How you treat each other and honesty. It helps you to not waste time and to move forward, outside of your comfort zone.” A tip from the musician that has become the voice of Ibero-America.
