Jean Rodríguez, one half of the acclaimed duo COASTCITY, recently reflected on a career defined by intentional authenticity, speaking from Las Vegas shortly after the conclusion of the Latin GRAMMYs. The producer, singer, and songwriter shared insights into the profound impact of his work and his deep connection to Latin music.
His role as producer and arranger for CA7RIEL and Paco Amoroso’s album, which earned a Latin GRAMMY nomination for Album of the Year, stands out as a recent career highlight. Rodríguez recounted the excitement of seeing six out of ten album tracks originate from the duo’s viral Tiny Desk performance. “When Sony released the album and we saw that, we said: Wow, we have something special here!” he recalled with pride.
Rodríguez emphasizes that the Tiny Desk’s viral success was no accident but rather the result of deeply intentional collaboration. Every detail, from the musical arrangements to the distinctive wardrobe, served a specific purpose. This included the iconic shirts featuring passport photos, a tribute to musicians who faced visa issues and could not travel.
“Everything had a purpose,” Rodríguez explained. He and his team meticulously studied CA7RIEL and Paco Amoroso’s live shows and recordings, aiming to amplify their inherent magic without altering its essence. This thoughtful approach allowed the music to speak for itself.
The project’s authenticity, coupled with the artists’ evident enjoyment, was crucial in helping it resonate across various audiences and international borders. Rodríguez noted their dual approach: professional rigor combined with a refreshing spontaneity. “They didn’t take it too seriously, but at the same time, they were incredibly professional,” he observed. This balance captivated viewers of all generations, even those outside the Latin music sphere, proving that “when something is real, it connects.”
The Argentine duo embodies much of what inspires Rodríguez and his COASTCITY partner, Danny Flores. They admire CA7RIEL and Paco Amoroso’s creative freedom, experimental spirit, and artistic vision that transcends traditional genres. “We started COASTCITY as a space to do whatever we wanted, without depending on anyone. It’s an independent project where we can mix everything we love,” he stated. This shared philosophy explains their strong connection.
Rodríguez spoke passionately about the industry recognition his work has received. Events like the week in Las Vegas, surrounded by esteemed colleagues, serve as powerful moments of reflection. “You run into colleagues, producers, engineers, people who have been creating art for years. To hear from them that they value what you do, that they take the time to read the credits and acknowledge your work, that truly fills your soul,” he affirmed.
COASTCITY’s sonic signature has always been a blend of soul, R&B, Latin pop, and Caribbean rhythms. Rodríguez emphasizes their commitment to creating music with purpose and quality, eschewing formulas. “We bet on risk and quality. We don’t follow trends, we prefer to create them,” he asserted.
Maintaining a strong reputation within the music community is also paramount for Rodríguez. He believes that consistency and credibility are fundamental. “For the artists, producers, and colleagues we admire to respect our musical decisions, that to me is golden,” he stated.
The Puerto Rican artist also shared his reflections on the emotional support provided by his family. “If I had to thank anyone, it would be my family first. My children and my wife are my greatest inspiration. This industry is a roller coaster, and they are my engine. Every achievement, every nomination, every collaboration, has something of them behind it.”
Rodríguez offered high praise for his musical partner, Danny Flores, despite his absence during the interview. Flores was working as the musical supervisor for the “Person of the Year” event, which honored Raphael this year. “Danny isn’t with me now, but we remain connected in everything we do. We are brothers in music and beyond. He represents that other half of COASTCITY that not everyone sees, but that is felt in every note,” Rodríguez explained.
Throughout his career, Rodríguez has collaborated with notable artists like Ricky Martin, Farruko, Leslie Grace, and his brother, Luis Fonsi. Yet, his driving force remains authenticity, not celebrity. “We don’t seek to be the most viral, we seek to be the most real. If a song doesn’t have a soul, we’re not interested,” he firmly declared.
As Las Vegas settles back into its rhythm after the Latin GRAMMYs, Jean Rodríguez’s path remains clear: to continue creating, collaborating, and forging new artistic routes. “We are still here, active, making quality music. The goal isn’t just to win awards, but to continue connecting with people and leaving something that endures. If music touches someone, we’ve already won.”