Becoming An Icon

My Cultura and Sonoro

Becoming an Icon chronicles the lives of Latinx artists who have left an indelible mark through the sustained brilliance of their careers. This podcast brings you an exploration of various genre-defining stars, like Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny and more, whose talent is so memorable that they surpass mere performers and ascend to the iconic level. Here, we chart the paths and trails these unique artists have blazed on their way to global fame.

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Our Editor's Take

Becoming An Icon celebrates iconic Latinx talent. From Ricky Martin to Gloria Estefan, the intriguing show reflects on the lives and work of some of the world's most prominent Latino and Latina artists. Lilliana Vázquez and Joseph Carrillo cohost the podcast. Lilliana is a style expert, producer, television host, and content creator. She has worked on shows including TODAY, E! News, and Pop of the Morning. Joseph is a makeup artist and facial sculpting expert. The two met after Joseph reached out to Lilliana on social media. They found that they have much in common, including a shared passion for Latinx culture.

In Becoming An Icon, Lilliana and Joseph explore the lives, work, and culture of world-famous Latinx artists. The artists featured on the show have gained icon status due to their global impact. The cohosts discuss everything from the artist's childhood to their unforgettable fashion moments. They also share their experiences of the star's music and movies and how they relate to them.

Lilliana and Joseph explore each iconic artist across several episodes. There are three installments dedicated to Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Ricky Martin. During these shows, the two friends talk about Ricky Martin's career beginnings. They reminisce about his time in the boy band Menudo and on the soap opera General Hospital.

The second Ricky Martin episode explores the singer's rise to solo fame. Liliana and Joseph reveal the truth about Ricky's World Cup performance. They also examine the negative side of becoming an international superstar.

Becoming An Icon pays homage to Latinx stars who have helped transform the industry. It details the artists' beginnings and impact on the global stage. A new podcast installment airs each Wednesday. Episodes are about 20 to 40 minutes in duration.

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VER TRAILER

Introducing: Becoming An Icon

Introducing: Becoming An Icon

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episodios

Season Finale: Pride & Power

Season Finale: Pride & Power

Familia, we’re wrapping up season two with a bang! Joining us is the amazing music editor Thania Garcia as we dive into what makes our Season Two icons legendary: major record deals, bustling border towns, and endless Latino pride. Get ready to reminisce about the season’s unforgettable stories, share some laughs, and spill the tea on what’s next for the Latin music scene. You won’t want to miss this fun-filled finale! Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Icons in the Making: Corridos Tumbados Edition

Icons in the Making: Corridos Tumbados Edition

Pa’lante primo! Let’s look forward once again! In this episode, we enlist the help of our favorite music journalist, Tomás Mier, to peer into the future and spill the tea on the next generation of icons. This time, we cover the genre everyone’s been talking about: Corridos Tumbados. Join us as we dive into all things Peso Pluma, Natanael Cano, and Fuerza Régida, exploring their current impact and their bright future ahead. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thalía: Arrasando

Thalía: Arrasando

In the final episode of our Thalía journey, we explore her fairy tale ending—and everything that came after. Now celebrating 24 years of marriage with Tommy Mottola, her life seems like the perfect conclusion to a telenovela-worthy story. But even legends face hardships: tragedy struck her family, and illness tried to slow down our queen. Through it all, Thalía has remained forever young—not just in her looks or talent, but in her fearless authenticity. She reminds us that we can always be unapologetically ourselves. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thalía: Amor A La Mexicana

Thalía: Amor A La Mexicana

After starring in a smash-hit teen telenovela and becoming the most popular member of Mexico’s top teen pop band, Thalía showed no signs of slowing down. She had one goal: to become world famous. And she was putting in the work to make it happen. In this episode, we dive into Thalía's rise to global success, but it didn’t come without a price. Along the way, there’ll be scandals, telenovelas, and a heartbreaking tragedy. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thalía: Piel Morena

Thalía: Piel Morena

Thalía has it all—an icon of icons with a life as dramatic as any telenovela. There’s conflict, scandalous romance, a ransom, and a fairytale wedding. From the time she was a child running around the streets of Mexico City, it was clear she was something special. A singer, dancer, and performer, she captured the hearts of an entire country. Join us for the first part of our journey into the life of the queen of telenovelas herself: Thalía. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WiIlie Colón: Idilio

WiIlie Colón: Idilio

In the final episode of our Willie Colón journey, we explore his solo career and his legendary collaboration with Rubén Blades, a period that saw him at the top of his game. But as his music thrived, Willie began taking a sharp turn into politics, where he believed he could drive real change. Today, his political views have divided fans. Some of us might distance ourselves, while others still find solace in his music. Ultimately, Colón’s legacy remains in his hands, shaped by both his timeless records and his controversial views. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Willie Colón: Todo Tiene Su Final

Willie Colón: Todo Tiene Su Final

In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we dive into one of Latin music’s most legendary partnerships: it’s time for the Bad Boys. We’ll explore the unforgettable music shared between Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe, only to confront the heartbreaking effects of their separation. But the fallout didn’t stop Colón’s rise—collaborations with Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades were just around the corner. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Willie Colón: El Día de Mi Suerte

Willie Colón: El Día de Mi Suerte

Time to start a new iconic journey! This time, we dive into the story of Willie Colón, a towering figure in Latin music. From his humble beginnings in the South Bronx, where his abuela nurtured his love for music, to earning the nickname El Malo, Colón's journey was just beginning. Join us as we explore his rise to fame, his pivotal signing with Fania Records, and the lucky day he met La Voz, which helped him shape the future of Latin music. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vicente Fernández: Volver, Volver

Vicente Fernández: Volver, Volver

In our final Vicente Fernandez episode, we explore the complexities of El Charro de Huentitán, an imperfect yet undeniably legendary figure. His contributions to Mexico cemented his place as the king of rancheras, but the cracks in his charro image reveal his humanity. By remembering both his extraordinary talents and his flaws, we honor a legacy that transcends perfection and inspires future generations to do better. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vicente Fernández: Mujeres Divinas

Vicente Fernández: Mujeres Divinas

In true cowboy fashion, Vicente Fernandez called his sons “los potrillos” – the three colts. His love for them went beyond supporting their musical careers; Chente even established a ranch, Los Tres Potrillos, the perfect place to foster a dynasty. But life wasn’t all smooth sailing from there. Today, on Becoming an Icon, we explore the peak of Chente’s career. And in true telenovela style, Vicente’s world was about to get dramatic. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vicente Fernández: El Hijo del Pueblo

Vicente Fernández: El Hijo del Pueblo

When Vicente Fernández was a little boy, he watched Pedro Infante movies while tending to the cows on his family’s ranch. He dreamt of charro suits and singing his heart out. In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we go back in time to the start of El Charro de Huentitán’s career and explore how he went from a cowboy with big dreams to Mexico’s hearthrob and role model. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maná: Revolución de Amor

Maná: Revolución de Amor

Today, we’re hopping on the Maná hate-train for a couple stops, diving into the most popular arguments from critics and rock fans who claim the band isn’t “rock enough,” whatever that means. But love them or hate them, there’s one thing no one can deny: Maná left an indelible mark on Spanish-speaking music. Sure, they might not melt faces with power chords or spark satanic panic, but through their journey we learned that a group of young people can still change the world. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maná: Clavado en Un Bar

Maná: Clavado en Un Bar

In the early 90's, Maná became the most talked-about rock band in Mexico, even gaining traction outside their homeland. And like any good rock band riding the waves of success, there was drama! From members leaving in the middle of a tour, to love affairs with royalty, and hit song after hit song, Maná was set for life. Come with us as we uncover their journey to becoming one of the biggest bands in the Spanish-speaking world. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maná: Oye Mi Amor

Maná: Oye Mi Amor

Today we are kicking off the journey of one of the biggest bands to come out of Mexico’s rock scene of the 70s and 80s: Maná. It all started with a cover band called Sombrero Verde, who played the biggest English hits by bands like The Police, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. In the midst of a countercultural movement and government restrictions, their talent prevailed, and these rockstars began their rise to international success. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christina Aguilera: Fighter

Christina Aguilera: Fighter

For our final episode with Xtina, we delve into the 2010s, a challenging decade for our singing queen. Through it all, Christina Aguilera has continuously clawed her way back from dark days, revealing her true essence: a fighter, a mother, a diva, and undeniably, an icon. Join us as we explore the resilience and strength that define Christina Aguilera. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cristina Aguilera: Genie in a Bottle

Cristina Aguilera: Genie in a Bottle

In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we follow Christina’s transformation from the Mickey Mouse Club to her first major record deal. We’ll explore Xtina’s golden age, including hits like “Genie in a Bottle,” and delve into the comparisons and feud with Britney Spears. Discover with us the trials and triumphs that defined Xtina's path to stardom. Strap in, y’all—it’s a bumpy ride to the top. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christina Aguilera: What a Girl Wants

Christina Aguilera: What a Girl Wants

As her biggest fans, we had been waiting for this moment impatiently... at last, on Becoming an Icon, we explore the incredible journey of Christina Aguilera! Xtina rose from a broken home with boundless talent and determination. And while stardom came early in her life, Christina would walk a long road before finally stepping into her power and becoming the boss she was always meant to be. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tigres Del Norte: The Legacy of los Jefes

Tigres Del Norte: The Legacy of los Jefes

In our final episode of Los Tigres del Norte journey, we explore their new era with the youngest brother joining the band, solidifying their staying power. Over the decades, they’ve released some of their most artistically renowned work and championed immigrant causes. From playing for tips at cantinas to international stardom, they’ve performed across the globe and at political events. Los Tigres' legacy is truly built to last. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Santiago Sierra, Rodrigo Crespo, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tigres Del Norte: Narcos and Newcomers

Tigres Del Norte: Narcos and Newcomers

Come with us as we continue exploring the incredible journey of Los Tigres del Norte. In today’s episode, we start with their first-ever hit, the iconic “Camelia La Tejana”. It’s only the beginning. Soon, the Tigres will be exploding in popularity, only to be met with scrutiny and heartbreak. Join us to discover how they overcame these challenges and became the iconic band we know and love today. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Rodrigo Crespo, Santiago Sierra, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tigres Del Norte: Corridos from El Campo

Tigres Del Norte: Corridos from El Campo

In this episode of Becoming an Icon, we delve into the story of a band whose journey has it all. From a childhood in a small town in Sinaloa to a tragic accident that pushed them into the world of music, their story is nothing short of extraordinary. Yes, we’re talking about the Jefes de Jefes themselves, Los Tigres del Norte. Follow their path as they cross the border, working tirelessly until a chance encounter with a British man changes everything. Lilliana Vazquez and Joseph Carrillo are the hosts of Becoming An Icon with production support by Nick Milanes, Rodrigo Crespo, Santiago Sierra, Evelyn Uribe and Edgar Esteban of Sonoro Media in partnership with iHeart Radio's My Cultura Podcast network.If you want to support the podcast, please rate and review our show. Follow Lilliana Vazquez on Instagram and Twitter @lillianavazquez Follow Joseph Carrillo on Instagram @josephcarrilloSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.