Video- Frank Reyes vents and says that Anthony Santos stayed tough
In a candid discussion on the popular talk show Destino Talk, Dominican bachata singer Frank Reyes, popularly known as “The Prince of Bachata,” called out fellow musicians, Anthony Santos and Luis Vargas, accusing them of not expanding their careers globally. The interview, which aired on October 7, 2022, has already stirred controversy within the music industry, with fans and critics engaging in heated debates. Frank Reyes, a dominant figure in the bachata scene, has been renowned for his soulful singing and dynamic performances that span a career of over two decades. The Prince has made his name a household one, not only in his native Dominican Republic but also across several continents. During the interview, Reyes pointedly referred to Santos and Vargas, claiming they have “stayed hard,” a colloquial phrase suggesting stagnation in their careers. In particular, Reyes indicated that they hadn’t managed to extend their influence beyond their home turf, missing opportunities to gain international recognition. “Anthony Santos and Luis Vargas stayed hard,” Reyes stated, explaining his sentiment. “They did not expand their careers to other continents, restricting themselves to the familiar and not daring to venture out.” Interestingly, Reyes also pointed out that Santos is a fan of his work, claiming that the fellow artist once hired him to perform at his nightclub. “Anthony Santos is a fan of the one who hired him at his nightclub to hear him sing,” he shared, his tone veiled with a sense of victory. This revelation adds a new twist to their professional relationship, highlighting an unspoken competition and respect between the two artists. It indicates that despite their rivalry, there’s mutual admiration, with Santos appreciating Reyes’s talent to the point of inviting him to perform at his own venue. Anthony Santos and Luis Vargas, both significant figures in the Dominican music scene, have yet to comment on Reyes’ allegations. Santos, often referred to as ‘El Mayimbe’, and Vargas, nicknamed ‘The Supreme’, have contributed significantly to the bachata genre, leaving a legacy that has influenced many emerging artists. Despite the absence of a global presence, both artists have had successful careers, maintaining a loyal fan base in the Dominican Republic and among the Dominican diaspora worldwide. Their music resonates deeply with their audience, reflecting their shared cultural identity and experiences. Reyes’s critique brings up the ongoing conversation about the importance of global expansion in an artist’s career. While some view it as a significant measure of success, others argue that maintaining cultural authenticity and connecting with local audiences can be equally valuable. It will be interesting to see how Santos and Vargas respond to these comments, and whether this incident sparks a renewed effort in their careers to conquer new territories. Meanwhile, fans and critics alike will be keenly watching this controversy unfold, highlighting the intricacies and rivalries within the bachata music scene.