Backstreet Boys member Howie D (Howard Dorough) is embarking on a deeply personal new musical chapter with the release of Coquí, the debut single from his upcoming solo Spanish-language music project. The announcement follows his high-profile appearance before more than one million spectators at New York City’s National Puerto Rican Day Parade, where he celebrated Puerto Rican culture aboard the headline float.
While simultaneously preparing for the next leg of the Backstreet Boys’ sold-out residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas this summer, Howie D has spent the past year quietly developing this solo endeavor. Inspired by his heritage, the project combines brand-new original tracks with reimagined Spanish versions of songs from throughout his three-decade career. He is explicitly using the music as a personal bridge to strengthen his connection to the Spanish language and culture.
The vibrant debut single Coquí is named after Puerto Rico’s iconic native tree frog, whose unmistakable nighttime call is synonymous with the island. Musically, the track blends infectious Latin rhythms, flirtatious pop energy, and tropical vibes into a feel-good summer anthem. Born to a Puerto Rican mother, the singer grew up surrounded by the traditions of the island and noted that becoming a parent motivated him to explore his roots more deeply.
The upcoming full-length project turns a classic pop phenomenon on its head. After hearing from countless global fans over the decades who learned English by listening to Backstreet Boys hits, Howie D is reversing the experience to master his ancestral language. By translating the music that made him a global superstar, he hopes to pass his heritage down to his own children while sharing a new artistic side with the world.
As a member of the Backstreet Boys, one of the best-selling groups in history with over 130 million records sold worldwide, this venture marks a significant creative milestone for the performer. Coquí is available now on all major streaming platforms alongside its official music video.
