The Cuban reggaeton artist Yakarta recently stunned fans by disclosing the substantial sum he was awarded upon his arrival in the United States in 2012, as part of the duo with Chacal. "We received a contract worth $250,000—can you believe it?" the musician revealed during a conversation on the podcast De la vida de Las locuras de Miguelín, as he reminisced about his early days in the American music industry.
For a young man just emerging from Cuba, Yakarta confessed that this amount of money represented a dramatic shift. "I went crazy. I became spoiled and did whatever I wanted. It was my first time in this country, and I was living it up," he recalled, laughing at the memory.
Chacal and Yakarta were among the most popular and frequently listened-to acts in Cuba's urban music scene. Upon relocating to the United States, they continued to enjoy that success for several years before eventually going their separate ways.
During the interview, Yakarta reflected on that period and the choices he made after receiving a sum that, by his own admission, he never anticipated at the start of his career outside the island. His remarks have sparked discussions on social media, with fans recalling the hits that defined his career alongside Chacal.
Insights into Yakarta's First U.S. Music Contract
How much was Yakarta's initial contract in the U.S.?
Yakarta's initial contract in the U.S. was valued at $250,000.
What impact did the contract have on Yakarta?
The contract had a significant impact on Yakarta, as it marked his first time in the U.S. and led to a drastic lifestyle change, making him feel liberated and indulgent.
What was the duo's status in the music industry?
Chacal and Yakarta were one of the most popular and listened-to urban music acts in Cuba, maintaining their popularity in the U.S. for several years before going their separate ways.