• 03 Feb, 2025

From Covers to Creation: How Hugo Pelaez Turned His Social Media Fame into a Music Career

From Covers to Creation: How Hugo Pelaez Turned His Social Media Fame into a Music Career

Some artists spend years searching for their sound, while others seem destined for it from the start. Hugo Pelaez falls into the latter category. Hailing from the Dominican Republic and now based in Miami, this rising star never imagined his musical dreams could become a reality—until a single viral TikTok changed everything.

Amassing over 750,000 followers on TikTok and nearly 500,000 on Instagram, Hugo quickly realized that the platform he built singing others' songs was a divine sign to create his own. Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight, determined to bring something fresh and unpredictable to the music scene.

 

A Sound That Defies Expectations

Hugo Pelaez refuses to be boxed into a single genre. His approach to music is as unpredictable as it is exciting, blending reggaeton, hyper pop, afro, and more. “One thing about me is you will never know what to expect next,” he says with confidence. Unlike many artists who settle into a comfort zone, Hugo thrives on constant evolution. He considers himself “allergic” to sounding the same and embraces the challenge of pushing musical boundaries with every release. Whether it's heartfelt storytelling or energetic anthems, his music is a reflection of whatever inspires him at the moment.

 

Inspired by Greatness

Every artist has that defining moment when they realize music is their calling. For Hugo, it came in 2020 when he first heard Giveon’s Like I Want You. “I legit couldn’t believe what I was hearing,” he recalls. The experience left such a profound impact on him that it shifted the entire trajectory of his life. While Giveon ignited the spark, Hugo also draws inspiration from a diverse lineup of trailblazers, including Bad Bunny, Rauw Alejandro, Frank Ocean, and Daniel Caesar. These influences fuel his ambition to carve out a unique space in the industry while paying homage to the artists who paved the way.

 

The Art of Writing and Visual Storytelling

Hugo’s creative process is deeply intuitive. Sometimes, he lets a beat guide his emotions, while other times, he writes poetry that later transforms into lyrics. One recurring theme in his music? Love. “I think the world just needs more love,” he says. To him, love is more than just a theme—it’s a force that could heal many of the world’s problems.

But Hugo isn’t just focused on the music. His passion for photography and visual art plays a crucial role in his artistry. “If the cover isn’t good enough, I won’t listen to the song,” he admits. He believes that album artwork is just as important as the music itself, serving as an extension of the story he wants to tell. His visual style is rooted in capturing raw, real- life moments, ensuring that his audience connects with the emotions behind each release.

 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hugo Pelaez

While Hugo is just starting his career, his ambitions stretch far beyond the present moment. Though he has yet to collaborate with other artists, his dream list includes heavyweights like Giveon, Rauw Alejandro, The Kid Laroi, Daniel Caesar, Paopao, and Álvaro Díaz. But more than anything, Hugo sees his journey as one of continuous growth and self-improvement. “Even I don’t know what awaits me,” he says. “I just know that every time, I will surpass myself and show the world the talent that God has blessed me with.”

His message to aspiring artists? Keep God first and never give up. “If you never give up, then eventually you will make it. It’s just a matter of when, not if.” With an unstoppable mindset, a gift for music, and a clear vision for the future, Hugo Pelaez is well on his way to becoming an artist the world won’t forget.

Valerie W.

Valerie is the writer of Wavy Music Magazine, a premier destination for music industry professionals. Through her interviews, reviews, and expert insights, she keeps readers up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the world of music.