Becoming an Icon chronicles the lives of Latinx artists who have left an indelible mark through the sustained brilliance of their careers. This podcast brings you an exploration of various genre-defining stars, like Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny and more, whose talent is so memorable that they surpass mere performers and ascend to the iconic level. Here, we chart the paths and trails these unique artists have blazed on their way to global fame.
Juan, a reclusive museum curator, swipes right on a dating app and unknowingly goes on a date with Fernando – a charming conman who secretly plans on conning him. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Familia, we’re wrapping up season two with a bang! Joining us is the amazing music editor Thania Garcia as we dive into what makes our Season Two icons legendary: major record deals, bustling border towns, and endless Latino pride. Get ready to reminisce about the season’s unforgettable stories, share some laughs, and spill the tea on what’s next for the Latin music scene. You won’t want to miss this fun-filled finale! Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with p...
Pa’lante primo! Let’s look forward once again! In this episode, we enlist the help of our favorite music journalist, Tomás Mier, to peer into the future and spill the tea on the next generation of icons. This time, we cover the genre everyone’s been talking about: Corridos Tumbados. Join us as we dive into all things Peso Pluma, Natanael Cano, and Fuerza Régida, exploring their current impact and their bright future ahead. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon wi...
In the final episode of our Thalía journey, we explore her fairy tale ending—and everything that came after. Now celebrating 24 years of marriage with Tommy Mottola, her life seems like the perfect conclusion to a telenovela-worthy story. But even legends face hardships: tragedy struck her family, and illness tried to slow down our queen. Through it all, Thalía has remained forever young—not just in her looks or talent, but in her fearless authenticity. She reminds us that we can always be unapo...
After starring in a smash-hit teen telenovela and becoming the most popular member of Mexico’s top teen pop band, Thalía showed no signs of slowing down. She had one goal: to become world famous. And she was putting in the work to make it happen. In this episode, we dive into Thalía's rise to global success, but it didn’t come without a price. Along the way, there’ll be scandals, telenovelas, and a heartbreaking tragedy. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with...
Thalía has it all—an icon of icons with a life as dramatic as any telenovela. There’s conflict, scandalous romance, a ransom, and a fairytale wedding. From the time she was a child running around the streets of Mexico City, it was clear she was something special. A singer, dancer, and performer, she captured the hearts of an entire country. Join us for the first part of our journey into the life of the queen of telenovelas herself: Thalía. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Be...
In the final episode of our Willie Colón journey, we explore his solo career and his legendary collaboration with Rubén Blades, a period that saw him at the top of his game. But as his music thrived, Willie began taking a sharp turn into politics, where he believed he could drive real change. Today, his political views have divided fans. Some of us might distance ourselves, while others still find solace in his music. Ultimately, Colón’s legacy remains in his hands, shaped by both his timeless r...
In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we dive into one of Latin music’s most legendary partnerships: it’s time for the Bad Boys. We’ll explore the unforgettable music shared between Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe, only to confront the heartbreaking effects of their separation. But the fallout didn’t stop Colón’s rise—collaborations with Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades were just around the corner. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Mil...
Time to start a new iconic journey! This time, we dive into the story of Willie Colón, a towering figure in Latin music. From his humble beginnings in the South Bronx, where his abuela nurtured his love for music, to earning the nickname El Malo, Colón's journey was just beginning. Join us as we explore his rise to fame, his pivotal signing with Fania Records, and the lucky day he met La Voz, which helped him shape the future of Latin music. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of ...
In our final Vicente Fernandez episode, we explore the complexities of El Charro de Huentitán, an imperfect yet undeniably legendary figure. His contributions to Mexico cemented his place as the king of rancheras, but the cracks in his charro image reveal his humanity. By remembering both his extraordinary talents and his flaws, we honor a legacy that transcends perfection and inspires future generations to do better. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with pr...
In true cowboy fashion, Vicente Fernandez called his sons “los potrillos” – the three colts. His love for them went beyond supporting their musical careers; Chente even established a ranch, Los Tres Potrillos, the perfect place to foster a dynasty. But life wasn’t all smooth sailing from there. Today, on Becoming an Icon, we explore the peak of Chente’s career. And in true telenovela style, Vicente’s world was about to get dramatic. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming ...
When Vicente Fernández was a little boy, he watched Pedro Infante movies while tending to the cows on his family’s ranch. He dreamt of charro suits and singing his heart out. In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we go back in time to the start of El Charro de Huentitán’s career and explore how he went from a cowboy with big dreams to Mexico’s hearthrob and role model. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, ...
Today, we’re hopping on the Maná hate-train for a couple stops, diving into the most popular arguments from critics and rock fans who claim the band isn’t “rock enough,” whatever that means. But love them or hate them, there’s one thing no one can deny: Maná left an indelible mark on Spanish-speaking music. Sure, they might not melt faces with power chords or spark satanic panic, but through their journey we learned that a group of young people can still change the world. Lilliana Vazquez and Jo...
In the early 90's, Maná became the most talked-about rock band in Mexico, even gaining traction outside their homeland. And like any good rock band riding the waves of success, there was drama! From members leaving in the middle of a tour, to love affairs with royalty, and hit song after hit song, Maná was set for life. Come with us as we uncover their journey to becoming one of the biggest bands in the Spanish-speaking world. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Ico...
Today we are kicking off the journey of one of the biggest bands to come out of Mexico’s rock scene of the 70s and 80s: Maná. It all started with a cover band called Sombrero Verde, who played the biggest English hits by bands like The Police, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. In the midst of a countercultural movement and government restrictions, their talent prevailed, and these rockstars began their rise to international success. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becomi...
For our final episode with Xtina, we delve into the 2010s, a challenging decade for our singing queen. Through it all, Christina Aguilera has continuously clawed her way back from dark days, revealing her true essence: a fighter, a mother, a diva, and undeniably, an icon. Join us as we explore the resilience and strength that define Christina Aguilera. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, ...
In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we follow Christina’s transformation from the Mickey Mouse Club to her first major record deal. We’ll explore Xtina’s golden age, including hits like “Genie in a Bottle,” and delve into the comparisons and feud with Britney Spears. Discover with us the trials and triumphs that defined Xtina's path to stardom. Strap in, y’all—it’s a bumpy ride to the top. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Mil...
As her biggest fans, we had been waiting for this moment impatiently... at last, on Becoming an Icon, we explore the incredible journey of Christina Aguilera! Xtina rose from a broken home with boundless talent and determination. And while stardom came early in her life, Christina would walk a long road before finally stepping into her power and becoming the boss she was always meant to be. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Mil...
In our final episode of Los Tigres del Norte journey, we explore their new era with the youngest brother joining the band, solidifying their staying power. Over the decades, they’ve released some of their most artistically renowned work and championed immigrant causes. From playing for tips at cantinas to international stardom, they’ve performed across the globe and at political events. Los Tigres' legacy is truly built to last. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An I...
Come with us as we continue exploring the incredible journey of Los Tigres del Norte. In today’s episode, we start with their first-ever hit, the iconic “Camelia La Tejana”. It’s only the beginning. Soon, the Tigres will be exploding in popularity, only to be met with scrutiny and heartbreak. Join us to discover how they overcame these challenges and became the iconic band we know and love today. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Ni...
In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we delve into the story of a band whose journey has it all. From a childhood in a small town in Sinaloa to a tragic accident that pushed them into the world of music, their story is nothing short of extraordinary. Yes, we’re talking about the Jefes de Jefes themselves, Los Tigres del Norte. Follow their path as they cross the border, working tirelessly until a chance encounter with a British man changes everything. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the...
On this episode, we’re looking forward. Join us as we peer into the future and chat about the next generation of icons. And darling, we have a legendary selection! We’ll be talking about Becky G, Camila Cabello, and Karol G—uh-huh! Even better, we’re not doing this alone. Joining us today is the talented Tomás Mier from Rolling Stone. Don't miss this exciting discussion about these shining stars and what it takes to become an icon in the ever-evolving world of music Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph C...
Welcome to the grand finale of our Daddy Yankee journey! We cannot talk about the king of reggaeton without mentioning the song that changed the scene forever: Despacito. Its success cemented Daddy Yankee’s spot in the pantheon of musical legends. Finally, come with us as we explore his more recent years, including his early retirement. Whatever the future holds, Daddy Yankee has consistently spread the light of reggaeton far and wide—allowing generations of Latin artists to stand in that light....
In this episode of Becoming an Icon… a feud that’s up there with Drake and Kendrick’s! We delve into Daddy Yankee’s friendship and eventual fallout with Nicky Jam. The king of reggaeton was relentless, hustling and grinding in the underground while paving the way for the groundbreaking album Barrio Fino. Yup, you guessed it! This is the episode where we finally explore the number one reggaeton anthem, Gasolina. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with productio...
At last, on Becoming an Icon, we’re exploring Daddy Yankee's journey to earn his rightful throne as the King of Reggaeton! In this episode, we'll delve into a brief history of reggaeton, Daddy Yankee’s childhood in San Juan, his short stint as a baseball player, and his musical beginnings. Discover how Daddy Yankee helped establish the genre's credibility, setting the stage for world domination. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by San...
In our thrilling finale exploring the epic journey of the legendary Carlos Santana, we dive into a moment in life when his heroes faded away, leaving Carlos to seek inspiration within… and beyond. Santana's remarkable late-in-life resurgence in the '90s not only introduced him to a new generation but also solidified his status as an enduring icon. Join us as we unravel Santana's extraordinary legacy! Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support b...
In today’s episode of Becoming an Icon, we kick off with Santana’s decisive performance at a generation-defining music festival, propelling him to the mountaintop of success. However soon after, Santana would find himself wandering the desert. Join us as we ride the tidal wave of his triumphs, only to be met with rough waters and sinking tides. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Rodrigo Crespo, Alex de Winter, Santiag...
Get ready to groove as we take a deep dive into the extraordinary journey of Carlos Santana! His life and career embody the very essence of a '60s and '70s rock star, and today, we're diving headfirst into the legend's beginnings. Coming of age amidst the vibrant streets of San Francisco during the heyday of counterculture, Santana played legendary venues and witnessed legendary performances that would shape his destiny. Carlos was on the brink of becoming a household name. Lilliana Vazquez and ...
Today on Becoming an Icon… Get ready to relive Selena’s meteoric rise and untimely fall. During the early '90s, Selena was at the peak of her career: "Amor Prohibido" was her biggest hit yet, and fans were captivated by her powerful performances. But then, as you know, tragedy struck. Instead of dwelling on how Selena was taken from us, join us in this episode as we celebrate all that she gave us and the torchbearers who continue to keep her legacy alive. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are...
Step into the world of Selena as we uncover the moments that shaped her legendary career. On today’s episode, we begin with her very first record deal, leading up to her legendary concert at the Astrodome in Houston. Join us as we deep dive into her romance with Chris Perez and the electrifying performances that solidified her status as a Tejano sensation. These were the years that cemented Selena as the star we all love and remember! Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becomin...
