José Rafael Cordero Sánchez is a multifaceted Venezuelan artist who has distinguished himself as a composer, activist, and digital content creator. Born on December 14, 1990, in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, he currently resides in Dallas, Texas, where he continues to develop his artistic career and social work.
Early life and digital career
Cordero Sánchez gained notoriety in 2012 with his viral short film “Observe the Chair of Terror,” which marked his entry into the digital world. Since then, he has used platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram to share content that combines entertainment, personal reflections, travel vlogs, and activism, connecting with a broad and diverse audience.
Animal rights activism
Committed to defending animal rights, José Rafael has led campaigns such as #NoALosZoológicosYCircos, promoting responsible adoption and respect for animals. His activism has manifested itself both on social media and in collaborations with organizations dedicated to animal welfare.
Musical Career
In the musical field, Cordero Sánchez has explored genres such as pop, reggaeton, and electronic music. Among his most notable works are the singles “Ser Tú Mismo,” “Cumplirás,” “Me Iré de Aquí,” and “Crisidosis.” These songs address themes of authenticity, perseverance, and the search for personal freedom, reflecting his own experiences and emotions, as well as the political crisis in his country.
He has also released albums such as “Odio a Maduro” (2020), a critique of the political situation in Venezuela, “Monstruos Políticos” (2021), and “Lorena Corazón Verde” (2021), consolidating his presence in the Latin American music scene.
Influence and Lifestyle
José Rafael combines his artistic career with a lifestyle that promotes authenticity and social commitment. Through his digital platforms, he shares content that inspires his followers to pursue their dreams and get involved in social causes. His influence extends beyond music, making him a representative figure of committed and creative youth.
In short, José Rafael Cordero Sánchez is an example of how art and activism can intertwine to generate a positive impact on society, using his voice and talent to promote values of empathy, authenticity, and social change.
Questions and the style of José Rafael Cordero Sánchez
Considering you’re originally from Barquisimeto, do you think music runs in your blood?
I’m completely from my Barquisimeto, a beautiful musical city; it’s almost impossible not to absorb that energy. I believe music is in every corner; music is art; it’s the way to express yourself and connect with stories, with people; it’s everything; it brings joy to our lives. So yes, I feel like music is not only in my blood, but also in my spirit.
Are you self-taught or did you pursue academic musical studies?
I’m primarily self-taught; I learned out of passion, out of the need to create and say something with my songs. I didn’t go to a traditional conservatory, but I did go through the school of life, where every experience and every mistake have been part of shaping me into the person I am today. Humble and hardworking.
Who are your musical inspirations?
They’re a mix of who I am: Venezuelan, Latin, a dreamer, a risk-taker. I’m inspired by artists like Simón Díaz, for his roots and poetry; Franco de Vita, Rubén Blades, and Ricardo Arjona, for the power of their lyrics. I admire those who aren’t afraid to blend genres, break molds, and tell real stories.
How long have you been dedicated to music?
I don’t consider myself a singer; I’m more of a content creator. 2020 was a pivotal moment in my life. In the midst of a world that was coming to a standstill, I decided to move forward with what I could truly express my thoughts and feelings: composing and telling stories through music. It has been a path of self-discovery, struggle, and constant growth, where each song has been a way to resist, heal, and connect with others.
What kind of music do you sing and compose?
I compose music with sincerity, with messages. My style moves between the alternative, the social, and the emotional, fusing genres like pop, electronica, and sometimes even touches of reggaeton, depending on what the story calls for. I like to write lyrics that tell what we experience, what we feel, and what is often silenced: injustice, politics, hope, identity. My music seeks not only to find the positive in life, but also to raise awareness and touch that key so we can see the reality of things.
What musical themes have resonated in your compositions?
For example, my song “Me Iré de Aquí” speaks of the pain of a country resisting blackouts, migrations, and broken hopes. Self-love and identity have also resonated, as in “Ser Tú Mismo,” which invites us to accept ourselves in the midst of a society that imposes masks. And I can’t help but mention the fight for dreams and hope, present in the song “Cumplirás,” which is a promise to those who continue forward despite adversity.
Have you composed or collaborated with any international artists?
So far, I haven’t composed directly for an international artist, nor have I done a formal collaboration with one, but that’s something I’m definitely not interested in. My focus has been on building an identity and reflective messages. But maybe in the future, who knows? Everything comes in its own time.
Have you collaborated with any Venezuelan artists?
No, so far, I haven’t collaborated with other Venezuelan artists. I’ve been focused on developing my own identity and consolidating my lyrics as a songwriter.
Where in the United States are you located, and since when did you emigrate?
I’m currently in the United States. I emigrated from Venezuela in 2021, looking for better opportunities and a space where I could continue to grow personally. Thank God.
Have you performed in the US?
No, my music isn’t for concerts or presentations; it’s reflective music. So, you can only see and find it on digital platforms and YouTube.
Have you released any albums or promotional pieces?
Yes, I released an album inspired by the social and political situation in Venezuela. However, I decided to cancel it due to the uncertainty and difficulties the country is experiencing. It was a way of expressing that, just as many dreams are cut short in Venezuela, an artistic project can also be interrupted by the reality it faces, and for my own safety, I decided to modify the lyrics. But now I have seven new songs I want to release, dedicated to Venezuela. They are called “Odio,” “Crisisdosis,” “Muerto en vida,” “No soporto esto más,” “Fuera Dictador,” “Venezuela Resiste,” and “Naguara Venezuela.” They will be released soon. What musical genres and themes do you address in your songs? My music fuses genres such as pop, electronica, and a bit of reggaeton. Regarding the themes, I address social realities, migration, the crisis in Venezuela, identity, self-love, and internal struggle. Each song is a form or way of telling stories that can often be successful or detrimental.
What social causes have you dedicated your life to?
I have dedicated myself to protecting animals and raising awareness of the crisis in Venezuela. Through my music and actions, I seek to raise awareness about poverty, repression, and the hardships faced by millions of Venezuelans, the poor functioning of basic services, and fair wages, among many other issues. I have also supported causes related to animal welfare, promoting adoption and respect for all living beings.
Why is animal protection important to you?
Because animals also feel, love, and suffer, but they don’t have a voice to defend themselves. When I was 12 years old, I had a parrot named Lorena, who passed away on September 19, 2024. That little animal felt a very special connection with me, and you discover that they are wonderful beings who deserve respect as living beings. Their love is genuine, and they are loyal until death. That’s why it’s so important to me to donate to foundations responsible for caring for, rescuing, and finding homes for so many abandoned, abused, or homeless dogs and cats. I try to promote adoption, not buying them. Protecting them is a form of humanity, empathy, and justice. I believe the way we treat animals says a lot about who we are as a society.
What types of activities do you promote to defend abandoned or abused animals?
I promote responsible adoption, sterilization, and awareness campaigns about animal abuse. I also support shelters, publicize cases of animals in critical situations, and use my social media to raise awareness about the importance of respecting and caring for them and building a more compassionate society.
What is your life motto?
I have two mottos: Be yourself, even if the world isn’t ready to understand you, and nothing is impossible if you truly want it, you will have it.
What’s your next step in the music world?
Releasing these seven songs is deeply connected to Venezuela, my story, and that of so many others who have had to leave. I want to continue creating music with purpose, that stirs emotions, generates reflection, and accompanies those who feel invisible.
Who would you like to share the stage with?
Let’s imagine: I’d love to share the stage with artists who use their voices to raise awareness, like Natalia Lafourcade or Danny Ocean. I admire those who make music a tool for change and a real connection with people. Beyond the name, I’m interested in those who feel music the way I do: from the soul and with a cause.
Are you thinking of returning to Venezuela?
Venezuela has never left me. Returning is always present, but not only as a physical return, but as a dream of reconstruction. I would like to return when the country is a more just and safe place, where hope is no exception. In the meantime, my way of being present is through art, for those who continue to resist from there.
What are your social media and YouTube channels?
You can follow me on all platforms as @joserafaelcorderosanchez, and you’ll find my music on my YouTube channel, @joserafaelcorderosanchezmusic.
