Ben Carrillo, a Guatemalan artist based in Los Angeles, is capturing attention with his compelling story of resilience and passion for music. He crossed borders as a 15-year-old undocumented immigrant after fleeing violence in Guatemala, a journey filled with both hardship and aspiration. Now, Carrillo combines genres like reggaeton, reggae, rock, and rap, showcasing the diversity of Latin culture through his artistry.
In a recent feature on COLORS SHOW, Carrillo performed an emotional rendition of his song "Pesadillas"—which translates to "Nightmares." The song delves into the complexities of dreams and heartbreak, reflecting his personal experiences. Carrillo described the challenges he faced growing up in Guatemala, including economic struggles and a difficult family background. His passion for music was sparked by his family’s influence and his early exposure to diverse musical genres, leading him to express himself through songwriting.
Before his rise as an artist, Carrillo faced numerous obstacles, from navigating the immigration system to finding his voice in the competitive music industry. He recalled how his initial dream of working in music faced setbacks upon arrival in the U.S., with school obligations hindering his progress. However, his determination never wavered; he wrote thousands of lyrics and built connections in the industry while working as a waiter.
Carrillo's journey led to significant career milestones, including supporting notable acts like Bad Bunny and recording with the iconic Thalía. Notably, his recent performance on COLORS represents a significant achievement in his artistic journey. Carrillo emphasized the message in his music: healing and perseverance, discouraging giving up no matter the circumstances. He aims to redefine what Latin music can represent, focusing on themes of hard work and family rather than solely on partying and celebration.
"Pesadillas" is one of Carrillo's most personal projects to date, highlighting not just heartbreak but also reflection and growth. The performance can be viewed on the COLORSxSTUDIOS YouTube channel. As Carrillo looks towards the future, he expresses his goal of living fully off of music and bringing meaningful change to the Latin music industry. His story resonates deeply with aspirants around the globe, reminding them of the power of dreams and resilience in overcoming adversity.