At 16, Manuel Turizo’s remarkable ascent to stardom began with his debut chart-topping single, “Una Lady Como Tú,” peaking at 32 on the Hot Latin Songs chart. This smash hit came to life over a weekend when Manuel and his brother, Julián, set out to “create the most romantic song ever recorded.” With only a ukulele and a voice note recording, the bedroom jam session birthed a fan favorite, not only in his native Colombia but also on the global stage.
Since his debut, the rising act frequently traveled from Colombia to Florida to collaborate with artists and expand his fanbase. In partnership with Delta Air Lines and LATAM Airlines, Billboard caught up with Turizo in Miami, the city he now calls home.
Hailing from Montería, Colombia, Manuel Turizo’s career has far surpassed his initial expectations, marking a breakout year for this emerging star. With global hits like “El Merengue” and “La Bachata,” Turizo has catapulted into the limelight, facilitating successful collaborations with renowned artists like Shakira and Marshmello.
Immersed in music since he jokes in his mother’s womb, Turizo’s musical journey unfolded naturally, guided by his father and brother, who served as his lifelong mentors.
Looking back, Turizo credits his travels for broadening his horizons and offering him valuable insights into the creative processes of others.
Now 23 years old, the Urbano singer proudly labels Miami as the epicenter of Latin music, where various Latin cultures converge. What started as a short visit to Miami four years ago quickly became a permanent stay.
With mainstays like La Industria Bakery & Cafe, owned by friend and label mate Nicky Jam, Turizo can find many of the delicious Colombian treats he craves from home.
“I was initially planning to stay for just six months and then return home [to Colombia],” he reflects.
“How long have I been here?” he asks his manager.
“Four years,” comes the reply.
“Four years. And I’m here to stay,” Turizo declares with unwavering commitment.
Thanks to the partnership between Delta Air Lines and LATAM Airlines – that partnered to bring you closer to more than 300 destinations between North and South America – finding inspiration through travel has never been easier.
Delta Air Lines will be the official airline partner of Billboard Latin Music Week in celebration of its partnership with LATAM Airlines. The Joint Venture between the two award-winning airlines is transforming travel between the two continents by offering an improved customer experience for its customers through benefits such as the joint accumulation of miles/points in frequent flyer programs and faster connections to access more than 300 destinations through the partner hubs in Atlanta, Miami, New York JFK, Los Angeles, Bogotá, São Paulo, Lima and Santiago. Click HERE to learn more!
Read in Spanish HERE
