Daddy Yankee and Anuel AA entertained a packed Staples Center with their popular raps at Calibash 2019, but it was Dominican rapper Natti Natasha -- the only female performing on the first day (Jan. 19) of the 12th annual concert in Los Angeles -- who proudly took the stage to show that women can hold their own.
She did this during the same weekend that thousands of southern Californians took to the streets for this year's Women's March. "I know who I am and I know what I want to say," Natasha said backstage after her performance, adding that one of her objectives is to inspire women of all ages. "I really want to keep that going because I want even little girls to know that they have an opportunity."
Natasha, who said she was preparing to release an album in February, was sporting a Dodger Blue ensemble topped off with faux fur. In the midst of a hectic promotional and release schedule, she concedes that more work is better -- but she still finds time to unwind and refocus.
"There's always a spot for rest, and I find a way," Natasha said. The key is "staying healthy and having the right people and team to take you there."Since the "Criminal" rapper is going to be releasing her new album near Valentine's Day, Billboard asked what she was planning to do on that day.
"Who knows," said Natasha, followed by a chuckle. "I'm probably gong to be releasing music or working. I always do that. I don't know why. I do that to myself."Calibash was broadcast live on SBS's Los Angeles station Mega 96.3 FM and is scheduled to be available as a special on the LaMusica app and MegaTV Network at a later date. The event, produced by Alessandra Alarcón, VP of SBS West Coast, presented a similar lineup on Jan. 20 with the addition of Becky G, among others.
