Is talent inherited or constructed? LALA seems to demonstrate that both things can coexist. Daughter of Willy García, former vocalist of Grupo Niche and one of the most recognized figures of Colombian salsa, the Cali artist returns to the music scene with “Tú”, a single that honors the legacy of romantic salsa while making it clear that her proposal has its own voice, style and personality.
With renewed energy, a video clip recorded between Miami and Cali and an album on the way, LALA seeks to conquer a new generation of salsa lovers. Her proposal combines tradition and freshness, demonstrating that, beyond her last name, she is determined to write her own history in music.
In conversation with Noticia, LALA talks about the weight of growing up with a salsa icon, the most important advice her father has given her, her return after a hiatus and the challenge of bringing the genre closer to new generations. Read the full interview below.
After several years away from the spotlight, what made you feel that this was the right time to return?
I had many attempts in other paths, but I always ended up returning to music. Working in the family business and staying close to this world made me understand that this is really what I love and where I want to be.
How would you describe the difference between the LALA who debuted at age 9 and the artist who presents “Tú” in 2026?
Today I have much more security, confidence and maturity. More than worrying about the results, I want to enjoy the process and always give my best.
What story or emotion did you want to convey with this song?
“You” is a very easy song to dedicate. It talks about that moment when you meet someone you can’t stop thinking about and who, little by little, becomes everything to you.
What was your reaction when you first heard the song written by your father?
It was very exciting because it was born from conversations between the two of us about what I wanted to express. Hearing the final result was feeling like a lifelong dream was starting to come true.
Romantic sauce is experiencing a new moment. What does “You” contribute to this evolution of the genre?
I think it brings freshness. Young artists can bring salsa to new generations and show that this genre is also for them.
Being the daughter of Willy García can open doors, but also generate expectations. How do you handle that pressure?
Comparisons will always exist, but my approach is to work with discipline, give my best and conquer the public with my own proposal.
In what aspects are you artistically similar to him and in which do you seek to differentiate yourself?
I share with him romanticism and discipline. My challenge is to honor that legacy while building my own identity.
What was the most important advice your father has given you about the music industry?
Let her be disciplined, but, above all, happy. He always reminds me not to focus on the negative comments, but to enjoy the journey.
Why was it important to record between Miami and Cali?
I wanted to combine my roots with an international image. Miami gave that special touch to the video and the result exceeded my expectations.
Many young people consume other urban genres. How to attract them to the sauce?
Without losing the essence of salsa, we can incorporate more current sounds that connect with the new generations and their musical tastes.
You announced that you will release an album this year. What can you reveal to us about that project?
I want to show myself as a complete artist. There will be salsa, but also other genres such as pop, urban and tropical rhythms. I want the public to discover all my facets.
Will there be collaborations with other artists?
Not yet. First I want the public to know my proposal and later collaborations will arrive that contribute to my career.
Would you like to record a song with your father?
Sure, it would be a dream. But he wants me to build my own path first and then share a song together.
Where would you like to see yourself in five years as an artist?
I would like to have my own concerts and a very strong connection with the public. More than awards, I dream of people making my songs theirs.
If someone listens to LALA for the first time with “Tú”, what would you like them to discover about you as an artist and as a person?
That I am an authentic and close person. I want my music to connect with people and for my songs to accompany important moments in their lives.
