When it comes to facing challenges, Fariana knows how to float above them.

Born Farina Pao Paucar Franco in Medellín, Colombia, the Latin singer and rapper gained prominence in 2005 as a contestant on the singing competition “El Factor X,” which is the Colombian iteration of Simon Cowell’s “The X Factor,” where she finished in third place.

As she embarked on her solo journey, Fariana took an unconventional path with her reggaeton singles, including “Sólo con Palabras,” “Será,” and “Regresa a Mi.” During a time when male icons like Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, and Wisin & Yandel were dominating the scene, Fariana carved her niche as one of the first female reggaeton artists in Colombia.

Reflecting on her role as a pioneer, the then-19-year-old faced mixed reactions. “Many people criticized me and didn’t grasp what I was doing. There were a lot of negative comments,” Fariana, now 38, revealed to YSL News in Spanish.

“Yet, being the only woman in the industry also made it easier for me because I claimed my space through my talent and earned the respect of many male artists,” she added.

Fariana channels her resilience and passion into her latest album “Underwater,” which is available now. The title reflects her love for the ocean and symbolizes her journey to listen to her inner voice.

“Not long ago, I was overwhelmed by industry criticism—people telling me how to rap or sing. I finally decided to block it out and focus on my own world and what I love: making music,” she explained.

Fariana Shares Why Collaborating with Sean Paul is Special

“Underwater” features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including Flo Rida, Sean Paul, El Alfa, and Snow Tha Product.

Her track with Sean Paul, the dancehall-influenced “El Vibe,” represents “a dream come true” for Fariana, who cites the Jamaican star as a key musical inspiration. “I grew up listening to him, and he has influenced the style I create,” she stated.

She considers “El Vibe” one of the standout tracks on her album, as it marked the start of this creative phase. “It was my declaration that I was all-in for this project and ready to release the album,” she remarked.

Fariana met Paul during the filming of their music video, describing him as “very gracious.” “He treated everyone respectfully on set, and I still find it hard to believe that I have a song with him.”

Fariana Expands Her Sound with ‘Underwater’

Though grounded in reggaeton, Fariana is ready to branch out and explore new musical avenues.

Her album “Underwater” showcases a variety of sounds, blending her Latin urbano style with dancehall (“Booty Killa” featuring Mr. Vegas), dembow (“Dora” featuring El Alfa), merengue (“El Caballito” featuring Oro Solido), and electronica (“Voy Rapido, Tu Lento”).

“I wanted to keep my core essence while expanding my sound across different cultures and audiences,” Fariana explained. “That’s why you can hear me rapping on guaracha, Afrobeat, dembow, and merengue. I was just being myself and exploring different musical waters.”

“Underwater” is also an experiment in lyrical depth. Fariana reveals multiple facets of her character through the emotions embedded in the 19 tracks of the album.

“There are sultry songs, powerful tracks, humorous tunes and deeply personal romantic ballads,” she added. “I feel like I achieved the balance I aimed for to please my fans.”

Fariana Feels Empowered by Female Representation in Reggaeton

The landscape of reggaeton has changed significantly since Fariana began her career.

Once a male-dominated genre, reggaeton now boasts a plethora of successful female artists such as Natti Natasha, Becky G, Anitta, and María Becerra. In 2021, Fariana collaborated with Natasha along with female emcees Cazzu and La Duraca on the empowering anthem “Las Nenas.”

“We are paving the way for future generations of women in music, and it fills me with a sense of empowerment.”

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“I feel a deep sense of pride,” says Fariana. “When I have a woman beside me, I feel empowered because together we are stronger. Women are a reflection of my journey; I know they have labored hard to earn their places.”

‘Why is there less scrutiny on men?’ Fariana questions the music industry

Although Fariana acknowledges that female representation in reggaeton has significantly improved, she wishes for a reduction in the questioning faced by female artists within the genre and the music industry overall.

“It’s time to stop putting excessive demands on women, questioning their lyrics, and how they express themselves. I often wonder, ‘Why are men not interrogated about their lyrics and actions in the same way?'” she explains.

One thing is clear: Fariana is not in this fight alone.

“We are building a supportive community,” she states. “I take great pride in being a part of this movement, this narrative, because we are showing the girls who look up to us that it is achievable and not out of reach.”