René Pérez Joglar, known as Residente, is a versatile artist who has transitioned from a Grammy-winning rapper and songwriter to a critically acclaimed filmmaker and actor, earning accolades for his work in music, film, and social activism.
Under a multi-year joint venture, Residente and Sony Music Latin/Iberia partnered to create, produce, and globally distribute original content projects across multiple formats through 1868 Studios. This deal expands Residente's artistic reach into film and television production.
Residente signed a five-year, multi-platform production deal with Fusion Media Group to release his solo album, a documentary, and a book, all under the common title 'Residente'. This partnership facilitated a comprehensive storytelling project.
Residente collaborated with UNICEF as part of its campaign against the trade and exploitation of children. This included filming a documentary in collaboration with MTV Exit titled 'Esclavos invisibles' (Invisible Slaves) and donating the track 'Preparame la cena' ('Prepare Me Dinner') from his album 'Entren los que quieran'.
Residente was recognized by Amnesty International as an 'Emissary of Awareness' for his social commitment and his connection with young people in Latin America.
René Pérez Joglar, born on February 23, 1978, in Hato Rey, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is known professionally as Residente. He co-founded the alternative rap group Calle 13 in 2004 with his step-brother Visitante, after completing a master’s degree in fine arts from the Savannah College of Art and Design. The group quickly gained recognition for its distinctive musical style and socially conscious lyrics, releasing five albums and performing for millions globally. Residente’s early career was marked by his sarcastic and impactful lyrical approach, addressing various social and political issues, such as the killing of Filiberto Ojeda Ríos and government policies in Puerto Rico. His contributions with Calle 13 earned him widespread acclaim, including numerous Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards.
In 2015, Residente embarked on a solo career, driven by a genealogical DNA test that revealed his diverse global heritage. This led to the release of his self-titled debut solo album in 2017, a project that incorporated international musical styles and was accompanied by a documentary tracing his ancestral roots across different continents. The album received critical success, winning the Latin Grammy for Best Urban Music Album and being named Billboard’s Best Spanish-Language Album of the Year. Residente further expanded his artistic endeavors into filmmaking, writing and directing music videos, and a personal documentary screened at festivals like SXSW and Cannes. In 2020, he entered a multi-year joint venture with Sony Music Entertainment to launch 1868 Studios, focusing on creating diverse on-screen content reflecting cultural narratives.
Beyond his creative achievements, Residente is recognized for his commitment to social awareness and activism. He has consistently advocated for education and the rights of indigenous peoples in Latin America, serving as a public face for campaigns by UNICEF and Amnesty International. His outspoken nature regarding social issues, such as criticizing the governor of Puerto Rico Luis Fortuño for layoffs in 2009, has cemented his role as a global activist. More recently, he made his acting debut in the film “In the Summers,” which won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in 2024. Residente holds the distinction of having won more Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards (32 combined) than any other Latin artist.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.