Meet Dominican Artist Leton Pe: Her Newest EP “Rojo Rubí” and Her Sense of Community

Dominican-Caribbean artist Leton Pe has been the talk of the town since the release of her latest EP “Rojo Rubí.” In an exclusive interview with LATV, she opened the doors into her musical journey, Caribbean influences, and everything behind her newest release.

Dominican Artist Leton Pe Talks About Her Roots and Newest EP “Rojo Rubí”

Watch our exclusive interview with Leton Pe 

Who is Leton Pe?

Hailing from the Dominican Republic, Leticia Pellicione’s passion for music began during her high school days. She touched on the acting and dance scene, participating in talent shows and landing a supporting role in ‘High School Musical on Stage’ in 2008. “I wasn’t any of the main characters, I was literally like a tree. But I remember the community, the experience of sharing with people,” she shared.

Although her parents initially opposed the idea of her pursuing a career outside the Dominican Republic, Leton Pe’s determination led her to New York, where she studied Musical Theater at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA). However, the unexpected twist in her story occurred when she found herself performing jazz standards in a casino in Queens on Saturdays. It was during these gigs that she discovered her own voice and the potential to carve a niche for herself in the music scene.

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Leton Pe spent four years back in the Dominican Republic, honing her craft with cover arrangements and leading her own band. The pressure to release original music loomed, but she followed her instincts, emphasizing the importance of not succumbing to external expectations. “Never take pressure from anyone. You don’t need to be a recording artist. In the end you feel forced to do something when maybe you don’t want to do it. So, I waited for the right moment to release a song,” she advised.

Her breakthrough moment arrived with the release of her first single, “The One,” featuring a fusion of dembow beats, dancehall rhythms, and Latvian pop influences. This hit skyrocketed her into Spotify Dominican Republic’s Top 10 Viral Topics and MTV Dance Spain’s Top 7.

Leton Pe also delved into her roots and the impact of Caribbean influences on her music. She expressed a love for a wide range of music, including Anglo, Dominican, and international hits. Her musical exposure ranged from Julio Iglesias and Celia Cruz to Luis Miguel and the Bee Gees. “I grew up listening to so much music. Every type, Anglo but also, obviously, Dominican music. Especially at Christmas. For me, the time when Dominican music stands out the most is Christmas. The rosaries and all that stuff. Also at the weddings, the merengue. But also, I mean, I grew up listening, watching MTV”.

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A post shared by Letón Pé (@letonpe)

Leton confessed that she initially felt the need to replicate sounds from outside her native context to validate her music. However, a shift occurred when she embraced her Caribbean heritage, realizing that authenticity resonated more profoundly with her audience. “The only way I can show my brilliance or be remembered is if I speak from my life, from my own experience. I felt so comfortable, sso confident. And I felt so much joy. If Caribbean music has something, it’s the strength. I could connect with others. I just want to bring people connection and community,” she emphasized, describing the strength of Caribbean music when experienced live.

The artist’s latest EP, “Rojo Rubí,” released in September 2023, marks a significant milestone in her musical journey. In collaboration with Julian Bernal, Leton Pe explored native rhythms while incorporating contemporary elements. The process served as a learning experience, guiding her towards a sound that felt genuine and true to her identity.

The EP features five tracks that embody the lively spirit of Caribbean music, encouraging listeners to immerse themselves in the present and relish the moment. Leton Pe’s mission is clear: to provide a sense of plenitude and joy through her music. “My EP is about people being in the present and having a great time,” she concluded.

Watch our exclusive interview with Leton Pe on LATV+