Mau y Ricky, the dynamic Venezuelan pop duo, are not just following in the footsteps of their legendary father Ricardo Montaner—they’re forging their own path while honoring their family roots. Their latest album, Hotel Caracas, isn’t just a sonic evolution—it’s a homecoming, a family affair, and a heartfelt tribute to legacy, love, and identity.
Unlike many artists with famous relatives who often distance themselves from those ties, Mau y Ricky embrace their lineage openly. As sons of Latin pop icon Ricardo Montaner, they’ve grown up immersed in music. However, their story doesn’t stop there. Their sister Evaluna Montaner and her husband, Colombian star Camilo, are also integral players in this musical dynasty. In fact, both can be heard contributing vocals to Hotel Caracas, adding yet another layer of intimacy to the album.
“There’s no hiding the obvious,” Ricky Montaner says about their family. “We’re proud that we’ve been able to lift each other up, inspire one another, and connect with people through music. It’s something really special.”
A Childhood Steeped in Music
Raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Mau and Ricky were introduced to music from the start. They watched their father perform hits like “Tan Enamorados” and “Bésame” to massive audiences, often joining him on stage. Those early experiences laid the groundwork for their understanding of music—not just as an art, but as a deeply personal and connective force.
Their father’s former collaborations with artists like Servando & Florentino also served as inspiration. Seeing a sibling duo succeed in Latin music made the idea feel attainable. Now, Mau and Ricky are reversing roles—bringing Ricardo into their music. On the track “Muriendo de Miedo,” his voice blends harmoniously with theirs in a subtle but emotionally powerful cameo.
“It’s a full-circle moment,” Mau reflects. “Having him on the album felt essential. It’s our way of honoring everything he’s done for us—not just as a father, but as an influence and guiding presence in our careers.”
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Building a Name Beyond the Montaner Legacy
Despite their last name, Mau y Ricky have worked hard to carve out their own space in the music industry. The duo established a songwriting collective early in their careers, collaborating with longtime friend JonTheProducer and their now-brother-in-law, Camilo. This team went on to write major Latin pop hits such as “Sin Pijama” by Becky G and Natti Natasha, “Pineapple” by Karol G, and “Vente Pa’ Ca” by Ricky Martin and Maluma.
One of their biggest breakout moments came with the hit “Desconocidos,” which also helped launch Camilo’s solo career. Today, their creative synergy continues. Mau y Ricky recently co-wrote a track on Camilo’s album Cuatro and collaborated with him on their single “Karma.”
“Looking back, it’s crazy what we’ve accomplished,” Ricky says. “We started out as four kids—me, Mau, Camilo, and Jon—with big dreams. We built something real, something we love.”
Mau adds, “We did it together, as a family and as friends. Creating with people we love makes the process even more meaningful.”
The Heart of Hotel Caracas
With Hotel Caracas, Mau y Ricky usher in a bold new chapter. This is their first release under their independent label, Why Club Records, in partnership with Warner Music Latina. The album also marks a significant turning point in their personal lives. Mau became a father in 2022, welcoming a son named Apollo with wife Sara Escobar. Around the same time, Ricky married Argentine model Stefi Roitman. These milestones deeply inform the album’s themes—romance, heartbreak, sex, and emotional growth.
“Being married and having families gave us a sense of safety,” Ricky explains. “We can be honest in our music now. Before, there were things we might’ve held back. Now, we tell our stories—past and present—because we know they might resonate with someone else.”
For Mau, the balance of being a father and a performer is challenging but rewarding. “It’s not easy, but it’s incredible,” he says. “Knowing these songs are part of Apollo’s childhood makes it all worth it. He’s learning to talk and pretend-play with instruments while listening to Hotel Caracas. That connection between music and development is magical.”
Returning Home to Venezuela
More than just a collection of songs, Hotel Caracas is a cultural reconnection. It’s the first time Mau y Ricky returned to Venezuela in over a decade. The album radiates Venezuelan pride, incorporating local slang and rhythms that speak directly to their roots. All 15 of its music videos were filmed in Venezuelan cities, and a forthcoming documentary will chronicle their journey home.
“We needed to go back,” Mau shares. “We realized we were carrying this identity wound. For years, we felt disconnected. Going back helped us heal that.”
They worked with over 200 local crew members to bring the project to life. The experience wasn’t just nostalgic—it was transformative. “It was three months of rediscovery,” says Mau. “We got to know our country all over again, and we captured its beauty on screen and in our songs.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Mau y Ricky?
Mau y Ricky are a Venezuelan pop duo and the sons of iconic Latin singer Ricardo Montaner. Known for their genre-blending sound, they have made a name for themselves as singer-songwriters and producers in the Latin music industry.
How is Ricardo Montaner related to Mau y Ricky?
Ricardo Montaner is their father. As a legendary figure in Latin pop, he played a significant role in shaping Mau y Ricky’s early exposure to music and performance.
What is Hotel Caracas?
Hotel Caracas is Mau y Ricky’s latest studio album. It marks a deeply personal project for the duo, celebrating their Venezuelan heritage and featuring contributions from family members like Ricardo Montaner, Evaluna Montaner, and Camilo.
Is Ricardo Montaner featured on Hotel Caracas?
Yes. Ricardo Montaner provides a hidden vocal feature on the track “Muriendo de Miedo,” creating a special father-son musical moment within the album.
Are other Montaner family members involved in Mau y Ricky’s music?
Yes. Evaluna Montaner (their sister) and Camilo (their brother-in-law) have collaborated on several songs with Mau y Ricky, including appearances on Hotel Caracas. They have also co-written numerous Latin pop hits together.
What makes Hotel Caracas different from Mau y Ricky’s previous albums?
Hotel Caracas is their first release under their independent label, Why Club Records. It also marks their return to Venezuela after more than a decade and features all visuals shot across the country. The album dives into themes like love, identity, and family, offering a more personal and daring side of their artistry.
Did Mau y Ricky film the music videos in Venezuela?
Yes. All 15 music videos for Hotel Caracas were filmed in various cities throughout Venezuela, using a local production crew of over 200 people. The visuals showcase Venezuelan culture and landscapes.
How have Mau y Ricky contributed to Latin pop beyond their own music?
Mau y Ricky have co-written major hits for other artists, including “Sin Pijama” by Becky G and Natti Natasha, “Vente Pa’ Ca” by Ricky Martin and Maluma, and “Desconocidos,” which boosted Camilo’s solo career.
Conclusion
Mau y Ricky are more than just the sons of Ricardo Montaner—they are trailblazers in their own right, shaping the future of Latin pop while honoring their musical heritage. With Hotel Caracas, the duo not only pays tribute to their roots but also embraces a new chapter filled with vulnerability, creativity, and authenticity. Their return to Venezuela, collaborations with family, and commitment to meaningful storytelling showcase a rare balance of tradition and innovation.