When it comes to groundbreaking careers, Latin Grammy-winning music sensation Sebastián Yatra is no stranger to taking bold steps. The Colombian singer, known for his romantic lyrics and fusion of traditional balladry with modern reggaeton influences, is set to make his Broadway debut this fall as Billy Flynn in the hit musical Chicago. This limited engagement, beginning on November 25, promises to bring a new flavor to the classic role and draw in fans from both the Broadway community and Yatra's extensive global following.
A Star is Born
Born Sebastián Obando Giraldo in Medellín, Colombia, Yatra's journey to the Broadway stage is inspiring. Raised primarily in Miami, Yatra began singing at a young age and returned to Colombia to kickstart his musical career. He achieved his breakout success in 2016 with the hit "Traicionera," a song that catapulted him to fame in Latin America and set the stage for his future endeavors.
Yatra's musical prowess is well-documented, with three studio albums to his name and collaborations with an impressive array of artists. His debut album Mantra featured the hit singles "Traicionera" and "Sutra," while his second album Fantasía included the lead single "Un Año" featuring Mexican band Reik. Yatra's ability to blend romantic lyrics with contemporary beats has made him a standout figure in the Latin pop and reggaeton scenes.
From Studio to Stage
Despite growing up in Florida and being fluent in English, Yatra has always prioritized singing in Spanish, driven by a deep desire to connect with his roots. "My goal was always to be a singer in Spanish. And I really wanted to understand where I come from and live it," he told Billboard.
Yatra’s foray into bilingual songwriting with the 2019 hit "Runaway," featuring Daddy Yankee, Natti Natasha, and the Jonas Brothers, showcased his ability to bridge linguistic and cultural divides. Similarly, his collaboration with the K-pop group Monsta X for the song "Magnetic" demonstrated his versatility and global appeal.
A Personal Journey
Influenced by Latin pop and reggaeton icons like Ricky Martin, Shakira, J Balvin, Juanes, and Reik, Yatra has carved out a unique space for himself in the music industry. His desire to rejuvenate interest in ballads for a younger audience while incorporating elements of other genres speaks to his innovative spirit.
In an interview with Billboard, Yatra expressed a desire to collaborate with Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli, highlighting his appreciation for diverse musical styles. This eclecticism will serve him well as he steps into musical theater, a genre that thrives on the fusion of different artistic influences.
The Broadway Leap
Transitioning from the recording studio to the Broadway stage is no small feat, but Yatra's artistic versatility makes him a compelling choice for the role of Billy Flynn. Known for his suave demeanor and silver-tongued charm, Flynn is a character that requires a unique blend of charisma, vocal prowess, and stage presence—qualities that Yatra possesses in abundance.
Chicago became an instant Broadway classic when it debuted in 1975, and this Tony®-winning 1996 revival continues to enchant new audiences with its timeless story of ambition, crime, and media sensationalism. Many notable actors have portrayed the role of Billy Flynn, each bringing their unique flair to the character. Yatra's addition to this illustrious list will surely add a fresh, multicultural dimension to the role.
A New Era for Chicago
Yatra's casting signals a broader trend in Broadway's ongoing efforts to diversify its talent pool and appeal to a more international audience. His presence in Chicago will likely draw in a new demographic of theatergoers, particularly younger fans who have followed his musical journey.
Yatra's music, described by The Fader as landing "somewhere in between the olden times' sappy romantics and the new wave's sensuous vibras," offers a tantalizing preview of what he might bring to the role of Billy Flynn. His songs, often tinged with a blend of Latin pop, reggaeton, and ballads, reflect a deep understanding of romanticism, which will serve him well in portraying the smooth-talking lawyer.
The Anticipation Builds
Yatra’s four-week stint in Chicago is poised to be a memorable chapter in the show's storied history, offering a unique interpretation of Billy Flynn that blends Latin flair with Broadway tradition.
Don't miss your chance to see Sebastián Yatra in Chicago. This limited engagement runs for four weeks only, beginning November 25. For ticket information and more, visit Broadway Collection. There, you’ll also find exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes content.