Sophie Castillo: Trailblazing British Latina Singer Celebrates Identity
Sophie Castillo, a rising star in the indie-pop music scene, sits down for an interview on a scorching afternoon in Austin, Texas. Clad in a long leather blazer by the pool at the Fairmont hotel, the London-born singer-songwriter exudes confidence and warmth. Her mission? To amplify the Latin American diaspora in the U.K. through her music—a unique blend of balmy electronic textures and Latin American heritage sounds like salsa, bachata, and reggaeton.
A Musical Journey of Diversity and Resilience
Born to a Colombian mother and a Cuban father, Castillo’s musical journey is deeply rooted in her multicultural background. Her father, a renowned salsa dancer and DJ in the U.K., introduced her to the magic of music at a young age. Growing up, she was surrounded by the vibrant rhythms of salsa, while her uncles shared their love for musicals and theater with her.
As she honed her craft, Castillo found inspiration in artists like Lana Del Rey and the Marías, blending indie sensibilities with Latin flair. Her breakthrough moment came with the release of “Call Me by Your Name,” a mesmerizing bachata tune that garnered over a million views on TikTok. Embracing her dual identity as a British Latina, Castillo is carving out a unique space in the music industry.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
In 2024, Castillo made history as the first U.K. Latina to perform at the iconic O2 Arena in London, opening for Colombian superstar J Balvin. The experience was a testament to her talent and determination, showcasing the growing influence of Latin music in the global music scene. With a string of successful performances in London’s vibrant immigrant communities, Castillo is on a mission to elevate Latin music in the U.K. and beyond.
As she wraps up her first U.S. tour in Los Angeles, Castillo reflects on the impact of artists like Selena Quintanilla, whose bilingual music resonated with audiences worldwide. Drawing inspiration from Quintanilla’s resilience and success, Castillo is proud to represent the diverse voices of Latinos in the music industry. Looking ahead, she is excited about the future of Latin music and the growing presence of Latinos in the global music landscape.
As Castillo continues to break barriers and push boundaries with her music, she remains committed to celebrating her heritage and uplifting the Latin American community. With a blend of passion, talent, and determination, she is poised to make a lasting impact on the music world and inspire a new generation of artists to embrace their cultural roots. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from this trailblazing British Latina singer as she continues to captivate audiences around the world.
