Daddy Yankee (Raymond Ayala) was born on February 3, 1977 in Rio Piedras, San Juan, Puerto Rico is a successful Latin Grammy Award-winning Puerto Rican reggaeton recording artist.

Ayala's persistence over ten years eventually paid off. His sudden ascent to wealth was largely a result of the hit Reggaeton song Gasolina (which was written by Eddie Dee and produced by the producing duo, Luny Tunes), from his 2004 album Barrio Fino.

He has appeared on over 70 albums, including compilations such as; "Más Flow 2" and "Blin Blin Vol. 1". He performed with Nicky Jam from the late-90's to early 2000's. He has also performed with Luny Tunes, DJ Blass, DJ Eric, Eliel, Nas, DJ Tony Touch, Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, Snoop Dogg, Fergie, and many others.

He was regarded as one of the 100 most influential people by TIME magazine. On June 5, 2007, Ayala released his new album entitled "El Cartel: The Big Boss."

Ayala has stated that his new album will mark a return to his Hip Hop roots as opposed to being considered a strictly reggaeton album. The album features guest appearances from Akon, Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls, Hector El Father, Will.i.am and Fergie of The Black Eyed Peas.
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