Pedro Capó talks new album “Fulanito,” Bad Bunny and Miami

During Billboard Latin Music Week, New Times Music Editor Flor Franceschetti sat down with Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Pedro Capó for an episode of our “Midweek Cafecito” podcast, following the release of his latest album, “Fulanito.” Over coffee at the Sony Music Latin offices in Wynwood, the two discussed his return to Puerto Rico, the global momentum of the island’s music and his early struggles in Miami.

Released Oct. 16, “Fulanito” features 11 tracks exploring identity, nostalgia, resilience and the search for belonging. For Capó, who spent more than two decades living away from Puerto Rico before returning to the island, the album is deeply personal.

“I feel like I’ve been writing this album for about forty-six years,” he said, reflecting on how his experiences shaped the project.

Initially, Capó thought he was writing about other people’s experiences with migration. But as the songs developed, he recognized his own story in them.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, this is me, this is my story as well,” he recalled.

The conversation also touched on Puerto Rican music’s growing international influence, particularly Bad Bunny’s efforts to bring traditional sounds to younger audiences.”It’s a conservation process, pro project if you really think of it,” Capó said, praising the superstar’s embrace of Puerto Rican musical heritage.

Capó, who joined Bad Bunny during his Puerto Rico residency, also discussed collaborating with iLe on “La danza del voto,” a song rooted in traditional Puerto Rican danza.

Miami holds a special place in Capó’s career, although his earliest memories of the city aren’t all glamorous.

He recalled living in North Miami Beach, struggling financially despite having a record deal and taking the bus to Sony Music’s former Lincoln Road offices in hopes of finding work. “I need to buy diapers, bro. I’m not asking for money, I just wanna work,” he remembered telling a record executive.

Those experiences contrast with the city’s eventual emergence as a major Latin music hub, where Capó would find greater success.

Watch the full “Midweek Cafecito” interview to hear more about “Fulanito,” his creative process, and his favorite Miami spots. You can also catch Capó live at the Fillmore in Miami Beach on March 11.