Richard Cepeda: The Soulful Voice of Modern Latin Pop

Richard Cepeda is a dynamic Latin pop singer and songwriter who has carved a significant niche in the international music scene. Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, his major label debut album achieved gold certification in several Latin American markets, cementing his status as a fresh and compelling voice.

Early career

Born in 1990, Richard Cepeda began his musical journey in the vibrant local church choir of his hometown. His early passion for music led him to independently release a series of well-received singles and EPs on digital platforms starting around 2014, which caught the attention of A&R scouts.

This DIY phase culminated in his signing with the influential Latin division of a major record label in 2017. His first official single under the new deal was a modest regional radio hit, setting the stage for his subsequent breakthrough.

Breakthrough

The year 2019 marked Richard Cepeda's definitive arrival on the Latin pop charts. His debut studio album, Vértigo, was released that summer and spawned the runaway hit single "Bailar Contigo." The song's infectious rhythm and Cepeda's smooth vocals propelled it into the Top 20 of the Billboard Latin Pop Airplay chart.

Vértigo itself performed strongly, eventually earning a gold certification in Mexico and Colombia for combined streaming and sales equivalents. This success established Cepeda as a reliable hitmaker within the genre and opened doors for high-profile collaborations.

Key tracks

Bailar Contigo — This breakthrough single defined his early sound and became his first major chart entry.

Sin Tu Mirada — A powerful ballad showcasing his vocal range that became a fan favorite and streaming success.

Fuego Lento (feat. María José) — This strategic duet with an established star expanded his audience across different Latin demographics.

Resiliente — The lead single from his 2022 sophomore album, noted for its more mature lyrical themes and production.

Following his breakthrough, Cepeda focused on refining his sound and expanding his collaborative network. His 2022 follow-up album, Resiliente, incorporated subtle elements of urban and tropical music while maintaining his pop core. He has since worked with producers like Andrés Torres and Mauricio Rengifo, contributing to a more polished and internationally accessible style.

While specific chart numbers for later singles are varied, his consistent presence on Latin radio formats and robust streaming numbers, particularly in the U.S. and South America, demonstrate a solid and growing career. He continues to tour and is reportedly working on new material for a third album.

Fans of Richard Cepeda's brand of emotive Latin pop often also enjoy the music of Sebastián Yatra for his similar blend of romantic balladry and upbeat tracks. The rhythmic pop sensibility of Manuel Turizo also shares common ground with Cepeda's work. Listeners appreciate the vocal style and modern production found in songs by Pablo Alborán, another artist in a similar lane.

Richard Cepeda's music maintains a strong presence on radio rotation across numerous platforms. His hits are staples on contemporary Latin pop FM stations and are frequently featured on online radio streams dedicated to the latest in Spanish-language music. Independent music radio stations with a focus on emerging international talent also program his deeper album cuts.

You can hear the music of Richard Cepeda on the radio stations featured here on OnAirium.com. Tune in to discover his catalog and listen to his signature Latin pop sounds through our curated selection of stations.