Puerto Rican salsa singer Christian Alicea has signed a record deal with Rimas Entertainment, Billboard can announce. The announcement comes ahead of the release of Alicea’s upcoming single “Hello, What’s Up?,” which is set to drop Thursday (Feb. 20) at 7 p.m. ET.
“I’m feeling a lot of emotions but mainly I feel proud,” Alicea said of the deal in a statement. “Proud because it’s been several years of work. Proud of my team because I am surrounded by people who dream together towards the same goal. So many years, so much work, so much sacrifice every day and to know that there are people who are willing to join us, it’s really nice. I hope this is the beginning of something big, something beautiful, not only for Rimas, not only for Therapist [Music], not only for me but also for Latin music and my Puerto Rico.”
“Christian Alicea is an artist with a fresh sound and a unique energy that connects with the public in a special way,” added Rodrigo Prichard, GM at Rimas Entertainment. “We are very excited to join him on this journey and be part of this new salsa movement.”
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A leading force among the new generation of salsa hitmakers, Alicea — who was Billboard‘s Latin Artist on the Rise in December — ended 2024 on a high note. His Yo Deluxe set scored a best salsa album nomination at last year’s Latin Grammys, where he also performed alongside superstars Marc Anthony and La India in a riveting salsa number.
Alicea kicked off his music career in 2019 and debuted on the Billboard charts three years later with “Cobarde,” which entered the Tropical Airplay tally in March 2022. He’s since placed seven titles on that chart including “Es Un Secreto” with DJ Buddha, which peaked at No. 6 and also landed on the Latin Airplay chart in September.
“We are thrilled to partner with Rimas Entertainment to amplify Christian Alicea’s incredible talent on a global scale,” said Urales “Dj Buddha” Vargas, who manages Alicea and is CEO/president of Therapist Music. “This new chapter is a testament to the dedication and passion that has fueled his career. Having Loud And Live and now with the powerful Rimas team and our shared vision, the future is brighter than ever for Christian and his music. Thanks to Rodrigo and everyone at Rimas for believing in this project.”