Raymond Ayala (born on February 3, 1977 in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico), known publicly as Daddy Yankee, is a successful reggaeton recording artist.

Ayala's rapid ascent to wealth and fame is a result of the hit song "Gasolina", from his 2004 album "Barrio Fino". The album has sold over 1,000,000 copies in Puerto Rico alone and has also sold well in the United States and Europe. He has appeared on over 70 albums, including compilations such as; "Más Flow 2" and "Blin Blin Vol. 1". Ayala is famous for recording songs in both English and Spanish, although the latter is more prominently used.

Ayala first became involved in recording music in the early 1990s alongside Playero DJ, a pioneer of reggaeton music. He has also performed with Nicky Jam, Luny Tunes, DJ Blass, DJ Eric, Eliel, Nas, DJ Tony Touch and many others.

In 2005, Ayala was cast in a Paramount Pictures film, tentatively titled "Talento de Barrio" (Barrio talent). Ayala says that although the movie is not autobiographical, it does represent the lives of himself and others living on the streets of Latin America. The movie is expected to première in theaters in February 2006.

Also due out in 2006 is Ayala's own clothing line, titled DY. He has also teamed up with Reebok to have his own shoes and sporting goods, also to be available in 2006.

--Wikipedia