The Cuban content creator Yoslier Santiago, also known as Yoslin, recently conducted an interview with musician and producer Yoel Salabarría, who is popularly referred to as El Metáliko. This marked Salabarría's first public comments since his deportation from the United States, which took place at the end of 2024. Known for albums like "El Suburbio" and "La Habana Tiene Su Swing," Salabarría was deported on December 30, 2024, due to his migratory status under category I-220B. This category impacts asylum seekers who failed to demonstrate a "credible fear" or didn't meet the legal requirements during their process.
"I'm Not Planning to Give Up"
During the interview, El Metáliko revealed his current location in Mexico, where he is determined to rejuvenate his musical career. "I'm now in Mexico, working with Bless Music on various projects I started in the U.S. and later in Cuba. Music heals my soul. I am an artist, producer, and composer. Writing poetry is something I love and it has helped me through this phase," the reggaeton artist expressed.
Reflecting on the emotional toll of his deportation to Cuba, El Metáliko admitted to experiencing numerous challenges: "I cried a lot, but giving up is not in my mind." He described the return to Cuba after many years as "very shocking," feeling disconnected from the place he was born. However, he emphasized that his mother's support was crucial to his emotional recovery.
"Every day is a struggle for more, but I'm grateful for everything I have," the musician stated, highlighting how he has turned the emotional blow into an opportunity for artistic and personal growth.
A Journey Defined by Resilience
Born in Havana, Salabarría overcame significant health issues in his youth to pursue a career in music. He founded the group Los Metálikos and steadily built a reputation in the urban genre, collaborating with artists like El Chulo and El Taiger. His discography features works such as "El Suburbio," released by Swedish label Urban Latin Records; "La Habana Tiene Su Swing" (2019), which blends Cuban rhythms with contemporary reggaeton; "Resiliencia" (2021), tackling themes of overcoming adversity; and "Calle y Fe" (2023), focusing on social and spiritual themes.
Understanding the I-220B Migratory Category
The I-220B category refers to a supervision order for migrants released in the United States who are not deemed high-risk. However, having a criminal record or failing to meet the supervision requirements can lead to a deportation order and a ten-year ban on regularization.
This situation was pivotal in El Metáliko's case. As he rebuilds his life in Mexico, he continues to receive support from fans and fellow artists. In the interview, he fondly remembered his late friend, reggaeton artist El Taiger, who once offered him unforgettable words of encouragement during a difficult time: "From anywhere in the world, one can reinvent themselves and come back stronger."
El Metáliko's Deportation: Key Questions
What led to El Metáliko's deportation from the U.S.?
El Metáliko was deported due to his migratory status under the I-220B category, which affects asylum seekers who have not demonstrated a "credible fear" or have not met the legal requirements during their asylum process.
How is El Metáliko planning to rebuild his career?
El Metáliko is currently in Mexico, working on new music projects with Bless Music. He is using this time to relaunch his musical career by collaborating on projects that started in the U.S. and Cuba.