our feature series Tell Me Más, we spotlight influential Latine voices, diving deep into how they prioritize mental wellness, navigate cultural identity, and stay grounded in the spotlight. This month, we sat down with rising reggaetón star Moffa, whose story goes beyond music charts and viral hits—it’s rooted in resilience, identity, and self-discovery.
Born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, the 22-year-old artist is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about names in Latin urban music. His unmistakable flow, cross-cultural sound, and breakout collaborations with stars like Karol G, Manuel Turizo, and Ñengo Flow have placed him firmly in the spotlight. But behind the streaming numbers and catchy hooks lies a personal journey shaped by adoption, Afro-Latino roots, and a strong sense of self.
Moffa’s debut album, Playground, released on July 18, showcases more than just his sonic range—it’s a deep dive into the emotional and cultural spaces he inhabits. The title is symbolic: the studio, like life, is his playground, a space for exploration, joy, and self-expression.
And while Moffa has often kept his personal life guarded, he opened up to us with remarkable vulnerability. From being adopted by his Puerto Rican godparents to navigating the complexities of having Brazilian and Dominican heritage, Moffa is learning to embrace every layer of his identity—and turning it into music that resonates.
Read More: El Teteo Unites Latines Through Cultural Celebration
Raised With Love: The Early Years
Although many know Moffa as Puerto Rican, his background tells a richer story. Born to a Brazilian mother and Dominican father, Moffa lost his biological mother to cancer when he was just nine months old. He and his twin sister were adopted shortly after by their Puerto Rican godparents—lifelong friends of his late mother—who raised them with openness and love.
“I’ve known I was adopted since I was little,” Moffa says. “It was never hidden. My parents were always upfront, always transparent. If we ever wanted to explore our roots, they were the first to support that.”
Growing up, Moffa split his time between Bayamón and the western towns of Isabela and Aguada, where his adoptive family was based. While others might struggle with feeling “different,” especially when they don’t resemble their family physically, Moffa never experienced that sense of exclusion.
“No one ever bullied me,” he says. “In Puerto Rico, colorism exists, sure—but I’ve always felt accepted. My family never made me feel othered.”
Navigating Identity as an Afro-Latino Artist
In a world that often demands simple labels, Moffa has learned to define himself on his own terms. As a Black Latino raised in Puerto Rico with Brazilian and Dominican ancestry, his identity is layered—and that complexity informs the music he creates.
“I consider myself Puerto Rican, but I know my blood is Dominican and Brazilian,” he explains. “I haven’t had the chance to visit those places yet, but they’re a part of me.”
Still, questions about cultural ownership in music occasionally surface. When Moffa released TOKO, a Brazilian funk track, he momentarily questioned whether he was “allowed” to explore that sound. His conclusion?
“I don’t think about music in terms of permission. If it speaks to me, if I love the sound, I want to try it. That’s what Playground is about—freedom to create.”
Reconnecting With Roots—Even From a Distance
Social media has created unexpected bridges for Moffa. Recently, he was surprised when his biological father—whom he’s never met—liked one of his Instagram posts.
“It was a strange moment,” he admits. “I’ve heard I may have up to seven siblings from his side. Some of my family in Brazil follows me and messages me, but I don’t speak Portuguese, so communication is tough.”
While curiosity about his extended biological family exists, Moffa is protective of the bond he shares with his adoptive parents. “I don’t feel a strong need to reconnect,” he says. “The people who raised me gave me everything. Meeting others might be nice, but my loyalty is to the family that chose me.”
The Woman Who Gave Him Life
Although he never met his biological mother, Moffa feels connected to her through the stories shared by his adoptive parents.
“They were all childhood friends,” he shares. “They tell me she was strong, strict, and would’ve probably pushed me to be a doctor or engineer. I don’t think music would’ve been on the table.”
Reflecting on what could have been, Moffa doesn’t dwell in regret. Instead, he embraces the reality he was given—and the passion that drives him.
“I’m here now because of all those choices, all those circumstances. And I wouldn’t trade it.”
Mental Health in the Spotlight
Being a rising artist in a fast-paced industry can take a toll, but Moffa has learned to check in with himself. Despite the glitz of shows, interviews, and nonstop production schedules, he emphasizes the importance of emotional balance.
“You have to stay grounded,” he says. “Some days, the anxiety builds up. You start questioning everything. But I’ve learned that sometimes, you need to cry. Let it out. Don’t bottle it in.”
That emotional release is key to his process. He treats the studio as therapy—a place where his emotions flow freely and creatively.
“Music helps me reset,” he adds. “And sometimes just talking to someone—whether it’s a friend, family, or a professional—can change your whole mindset.”
Message to the Adopted and the “Othered”
Moffa knows there are others out there who feel different—whether because of their background, family situation, or racial identity. His advice is clear: own your story.
“Being adopted doesn’t make you less. It makes you unique. You’re just as capable, just as worthy. Never feel ashamed of where you come from.”
He speaks directly to those still struggling with identity or acceptance: “Don’t run from your truth. Embrace it. Your story is power.”
What’s Next for Moffa?
With Playground now out in the world, Moffa shows no signs of slowing down. He’s experimenting with new sounds, expanding his reach, and even dreaming of attending Brazil’s iconic Carnival one day.
“I want to experience it live—to feel that energy,” he says, eyes lighting up. “It would be full circle.”
As Moffa’s profile continues to rise, his authenticity sets him apart. His music is catchy, yes, but it’s also personal. Every beat, every verse carries a trace of his journey—from adopted son to cultural bridge, from rising star to grounded storyteller.
In the end, Moffa’s message is one of empowerment: identity isn’t defined by bloodlines or appearances, but by love, purpose, and what we create from the pieces we’re given.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Moffa?
Moffa is a rising Puerto Rican reggaetón and Latin urban artist known for his unique sound and collaborations with major artists like Karol G, Manuel Turizo, and Ñengo Flow. He is also recognized for his honest storytelling about identity and personal growth.
What is Tell Me Más?
Tell Me Más is a feature series that highlights Latine artists and influencers, exploring their mental health journeys, cultural identity, and how their backgrounds shape their work.
What makes Moffa’s story unique?
Moffa was adopted as a baby after his biological mother passed away from cancer. Raised in Puerto Rico by his godparents, he embraces his Afro-Latino identity, with Dominican and Brazilian heritage influencing both his personal life and musical style.
How has being adopted influenced Moffa’s music?
Moffa uses music as a form of emotional expression and healing. His experiences with loss, identity, and belonging shape the themes in his lyrics and his willingness to experiment with different sounds.
What is Moffa’s connection to Brazil and the Dominican Republic?
While raised in Puerto Rico, Moffa’s biological parents are Dominican and Brazilian. He hasn’t visited either country yet, but he acknowledges their cultural influence and expresses a desire to connect with those roots in the future.
Has Moffa met his biological family?
Moffa has not met his biological father or siblings but is aware of them. Some family members from Brazil have connected with him on social media, though language barriers make communication difficult.
What message does Moffa share about adoption and identity?
Moffa encourages others who are adopted or feel “different” to embrace their truth, be proud of their story, and understand that being unique is a source of strength—not shame.
Conclusion
Moffa’s journey is more than a story about rising fame—it’s a testament to the power of identity, resilience, and self-expression. Through adoption, cultural complexity, and emotional honesty, he’s crafting a space in Latin music that’s uniquely his own. By embracing every part of his heritage—Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Brazilian—Moffa is not only redefining what it means to be a modern Latino artist but also inspiring others to own their truth unapologetically.