Cuban reggaeton artist El Chulo has taken a surprising spiritual turn with the release of his Christian song "God Did It" on YouTube this Thursday. This unexpected shift has left many of his fans, who are accustomed to his urban and street style, in awe.
The official video, which premiered on May 7 under the AK-47 Records label, quickly garnered over 8,300 views and 1,479 likes, accompanied by a flood of religious comments in the reaction section.
Departing entirely from the reggaeton and cubatón beats that have characterized his career, the song embraces a softer, more melodic rhythm with deeply personal lyrics of praise.
The chorus encapsulates the essence of the song: "God did it. You know God did it. Everything I have and am living is because Christ blessed me. A new man He made. I did the work, but it was God who accomplished it."
Lyrics of Faith and Transformation
The song is a profound reflection of faith. "Today we celebrate standing, but it was on our knees that we succeeded," sings the artist, whose real name is Abel Díaz Rodríguez.
In another verse, he reveals, "I am a new man, no longer knowing who I was. With His help, I built a family. Today I have everything, and I don’t know if I deserved it."
The lyrics also deliver an evangelical message: "Repent for your sins. Do not forget that only Christ changes what needs to be changed."
Concluding with a powerful statement, the song says, "I found the best version of myself with Jehovah. That's why I owe Him everything I have. I don't care if anyone criticizes me."
Challenges and Miraculous Comebacks
The release follows months after one of the toughest periods in his life. In January, El Chulo was arrested by ICE at his home in Homestead, Florida, due to a deportation order issued in 2018.
After weeks in detention at "Alligator Alcatraz," he signed a voluntary departure to avoid being deported to Cuba and resurfaced in Mexico on March 13, stating, "What they did for me was a favor."
Reuniting with his partner Maria Karla and later with his son Justin, he shared a heartfelt message: "Happiness is not having everything, but loving what you have."
His reunion with Justin in Mexico in April seemed to solidify this new personal chapter, which is now mirrored in his music.
Community Reactions and Broader Trends
The video's feedback was overwhelmingly positive. "The best song of your career, bro, great Abelito, God's glory is immense," praised one fan.
Another notable comment came from someone identifying as an apostle: "Many people praying for you, Karla, and your family. I remember the honor of praying for you in your home years ago. God is good."
Yet there was surprise and disbelief. "El Chulo singing to Jesus?????? Interesting, I hope everyone follows Jesus," noted another user. One even questioned him directly about abandoning santería.
Some fans urged him not to forsake reggaeton: "Chulo, keep singing reggaeton; you'll do better. I believe in God too, but God gave you your talent."
El Chulo’s spiritual transformation aligns with a trend that has shaken the Latin urban genre in recent years. His former collaborator, Cuban Lary Over, embraced evangelism in September 2021 and released the Christian album "Renacido" in 2022. Likewise, Farruko and Daddy Yankee have publicly declared their faith in Christ.
"Hopefully, more Cuban artists will join in praising God in their songs, so God reigns on our island," summarized a follower in the video's comments.
Understanding El Chulo's New Musical Journey
Who is El Chulo?
El Chulo is a Cuban reggaeton artist whose real name is Abel Díaz Rodríguez. He is known for his urban and street-style music.
What is the song "God Did It" about?
"God Did It" is a Christian song by El Chulo that reflects his spiritual transformation, expressing gratitude and faith in God for his blessings and a new chapter in his life.
Why was El Chulo arrested in January?
El Chulo was arrested by ICE in January due to a deportation order that was issued in 2018. He later signed a voluntary departure to avoid deportation to Cuba.