Bad Gyal: The Vibe of Spanish Music

Not all music needs to have a deep, underlying meaning, and that’s exactly what Spanish artist Bad Gyal believes. “I’m an artist that’s more of a vibe,” she says, emphasizing her approach to music as a source of enjoyment rather than a vehicle for heavy messages.

Music for the Club

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Bad Gyal, whose real name is Alba Farelo, explained her artistic vision: “My music is for people to enjoy themselves, it’s for the club.” She aims to provide an escape from the daily grind, allowing listeners to dance and let go of their stress. This philosophy is central to her identity as an artist.

Roots in Spain’s Urban Scene

Growing up in Spain, the 28-year-old singer-songwriter always felt a connection to music and dance. As she entered adulthood, she became increasingly drawn to Barcelona’s vibrant urban music scene, which blends local genres like Rumba Catalana with global influences such as hip-hop, reggaeton, trap, and drill.

A pivotal moment for Bad Gyal came when she listened to Rihanna’s 2016 album, ANTI. Inspired by Rihanna’s embrace of her Caribbean roots, Bad Gyal decided to carve out her own unique sound. This decision has clearly paid off, as she has emerged as one of Spain’s most influential voices, redefining dancehall and reggaeton with her latest release, Más Cara.

The Inspiration Behind Más Cara

When discussing her sophomore album, Más Cara, Bad Gyal shared that its inspiration stems from the genres she loves. “I was feeling like I had a lot of freedom coming into the studio,” she said. This freedom allowed her to experiment with various styles, from kompa to merengue, and even reggaeton from the 2000s, a genre that has significantly impacted her home country.

Evolving as an Artist

After the success of her debut album, La Joia, Bad Gyal sought to differentiate her second album by exploring new sounds and collaborating with a more cohesive team. “The bigger difference is the way I built the team,” she explained. Her label played a crucial role in introducing her to new producers who understood her artistic identity, making the creative process smoother and more fulfilling.

A Learning Experience

Creating Más Cara was not just about the music; it was also a personal journey for Bad Gyal. She embraced the opportunity to work with songwriters for the first time, overcoming past traumas related to collaboration. “The songwriters I had were amplifying what I had on my mind,” she noted, allowing her to express herself more fully without compromising her identity.

Introducing Herself to New Audiences

For those discovering her music for the first time with Más Cara, Bad Gyal wants them to know that she is an artist focused on creating a vibe. “I like my music to make people get to know me before my words,” she said, emphasizing her intention to provide an enjoyable experience rather than an intellectual one.

Favorite Tracks and Artistic Joys

When asked about her favorite song on the album, she mentioned “Un Coro y Ya :)” for its nostalgic ’90s and 2000s vibe. Among the various aspects of her artistry, Bad Gyal expressed a particular fondness for songwriting, describing it as a cathartic and intimate experience. “The studio is always my safe place,” she said, highlighting its importance in her creative process.

Upcoming Tour Plans

In addition to her new album, Bad Gyal is gearing up for a tour. While she hopes to perform in the U.S., logistical challenges related to visas may delay those plans. She teased that the upcoming shows will feature a fresh stage design and choreography, promising a unique experience for her fans.

The Global Impact of Spanish Music

As Spanish-language music gains traction in the mainstream, Bad Gyal is excited about its global influence. “We have a unique vibe when you hear Latin music at a party,” she said, recognizing the energy it brings to diverse audiences. This connection across cultures is something she cherishes.

Admiration for Bad Bunny

Bad Gyal also expressed admiration for fellow artist Bad Bunny, who has made significant strides for Latin music and the Hispanic community. She described his achievements, including his Grammy wins and Super Bowl performance, as inspiring. “He made his culture have this respect and love and admiration all over the world,” she noted, reflecting on the impact of his success.

Addressing Political Climate

In light of the current political climate in the U.S., Bad Gyal believes that Bad Bunny’s achievements carry even more weight. “It’s just a clear example,” she said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions of immigrants to American culture. Her stance against policies targeting the Hispanic community underscores her commitment to social issues.

A Perfect Day Off

When she takes a break from her busy schedule, Bad Gyal envisions a perfect day off filled with relaxation and enjoyment. “Waking up, going to the gym, having my coffee, my breakfast on the beach,” she described, painting a picture of her ideal day spent soaking up the sun and enjoying good food.

Reflecting on Her Journey

Looking back at her career, Bad Gyal feels a sense of pride in her accomplishments. “The first time I sold a 20,000-seat stadium, everything changed,” she recalled, recognizing this milestone as a significant turning point in her journey as an artist.

The Essence of Bad Gyal

Ultimately, when asked what defines her as an artist, Bad Gyal simply stated, “I don’t know any formula other than being myself.” This authenticity is at the core of her music and her identity, resonating with fans around the world.