From winning hearts in Latin America to taking the world by storm, Ricky Martin has been a trailblazer in every way. His diverse career includes singing, writing, acting, and even dazzling on Broadway, proving he’s not just a performer but a true star. On August 2nd, Ricky Martin visited Baku, delighting his fans with rousing hits and electrifying dance at the Sea Breeze Resort. Join us as we explore the journey of the man who continues to light up every stage and win fans around the globe.
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You began your career as part of the boy band Menudo. How was the transition into a solo career?
I started working with Menudo at 12 years old, and for five years, it was non-stop. Those years involved a lot of work, discipline, and travel around the world. Naturally, that came with a lot of pressure and responsibility, shaping me into the artist I am today. After I left the band, I needed a break and decided to do something completely different. I moved to Mexico and did some theatre and a couple of soap operas, which I enjoyed a lot. Then, I felt ready to return to music and pursue a solo career, and fortunately, I’ve been doing it ever since.
Out of your 12 studio albums, which one means the most to you?
It’s impossible to name just one because each album means something different and unique to me. Recently,
my EP “Pausa” was almost like a healing journey for me. I recorded it in my house during the pandemic. In all honesty, like many people, I was feeling a lot of anxiety – I was scared and feeling hopeless. One day, I went down to the studio in my house and thought I needed to return to what I loved. I started to speak to some of my colleagues and friends from different parts of the world, and I realised I was not alone in this feeling. So, I humbly asked them if they would sing with me, and that’s how the EP was born. Having artists I love and admire, such as Sting, Bad Bunny, Residente, Carla Morrison, Diego El Cigala, and Pedro Capó, meant the world to me. Months later, the EP won a Latin Grammy as “Best Pop Vocal Album,” which made me happy because other people felt it as much as I did.
Your song “Maria” is a timeless hit, breaking into Europe and becoming one of the biggest hits of the year in France and Belgium. Could you share the story behind its creation, and perhaps a funny story from the writing process?
“Maria” opened the door to new territories, and it continues to be one of the songs that gets the audience up on their feet to this day. My friends Draco Rosa, KC Porter, and Luis Gómez-Escolar wrote it for my album “A Medio Vivir.” From the moment I recorded it, I knew it was special. I remember we filmed different videos for the song. The original was done in Argentina, and when it was released, it almost immediately reached the top of the charts in Latin America and Spain. Then we did one in Europe for the remix version, and that’s when France started to play it for the first time ever. After that, it spread everywhere, and the rest is history. There was a before and after in my career since “Maria” was released.
You're known for your energetic and charismatic stage presence. How do you mentally and physically prepare yourself for performances, especially during long tours or residencies?
Well, I prepare as if I were an athlete. I give my voice and body the rest they need. Sometimes it’s challenging because I have four kids, but luckily, family members help me if I need time to prepare. I sing and dance all throughout the show, so I stretch and do voice warm-ups about an hour before I go on stage.
It took you only 7 years to win your first Grammy. Was this a goal with a detailed plan on how to achieve it, or a well-deserved reward for your hard work?
Winning an award is always an honour, and having the respect of my peers feels good, but I am in this because I can’t imagine my life without being on stage or performing. It’s part of who I am. Having the luxury of being in this business for 40 years and still experiencing the love and support that the audience gives me every time I perform or release an album or a TV series is incredible. It is something I don’t take for granted, and that’s why I work so hard every single day.
Which brings me to my next question – you've had a successful career in both music and acting. If you could pick any co-star, who would it be?
Another difficult question because I admire so many people. I just worked with incredible actors like the legendary Carol Burnett, Kristen Wiig, Allison Janney, Laura Dern, and Bruce Dern on Apple TV’s series “Palm Royale,” which just received 11 Emmy nominations! I’ve also worked with Penélope Cruz, whom I love, as well as Édgar Ramírez and Darren Criss, who are fantastic actors too. Yet, if I have to name one person, it would have to be a director that I’ve always admired, Martin Scorsese. I would love to do a film with him.
Moreover, you’re also a book author and have been part of two important Broadway plays, “Les Misérables” and “Evita,” as well as TV series such as “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story,” and “Palm Royale,” which just received 11 Emmy nominations as you mentioned – all while still performing in front of thousands of people, how do you manage it? And what attracts you to explore other areas of the art?
I can never stay still for too long, so I always seek something that represents a challenge. I love finding new projects that have an impact, be it in music, movies, writing, or any other field. Anything that requires me
to search deep within myself to create something meaningful excites me.
You are currently touring in different parts of the world. What do you plan to do once the tour is over?
I will start filming the second season of “Palm Royale,” which I’m very excited about. I also have a couple of other projects I will be working on. Stay tuned.
You’ve been named the most handsome man in the world on multiple occasions. How does that feel?
It’s flattering, and of course, I appreciate how people see me, but I don’t think about it much. I try to focus more on being a good father and a good person in general. Still, it’s a nice compliment, no doubt about it.
How do you manage to look as if you’re 25?
Oh, come on, you’re being too kind! Thank you for saying that, but the truth is I’m no different from anyone else. I take care of my health by trying to eat right, exercise, and rest as much as possible in between my duties as a father and my work.
Could you share a secret about yourself?
If I shared it with you, it wouldn’t be a secret anymore. But I appreciate the curiosity!
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Hardworking, caring, passionate.
Lastly, what are your impressions of Baku? Is there anything that particularly struck you?
I had never been to or performed in Baku, so I was very excited about the opportunity to bring the show to you for the first time. I couldn’t wait to experience your culture, enjoy the architecture, and learn more about the city’s history. And I did! It was lovely seeing you at the show – it was quite the party!
"There was a before and after in my career since “Maria” was released"
