Omar Montes Announces Retirement from Music, Cites Industry “Falsehood”
Spanish singer Omar Montes has announced his intention to retire from music at the end of 2026, citing a lack of authenticity and support within the industry. The announcement came during a visit to the television program El Hormiguero, where he presented a remix of his collaboration with Juan Magán, “Ayer La Vi.”
Montes, who has been active in the music scene for a decade, expressed disillusionment with the industry’s focus on popularity and the fleeting nature of relationships. “It’s hard, but I’ve been singing for 10 years now, I’ve gone all over the place, I’ve been number 1, 2, 0, I’ve had a lot of joy…but there comes a time when you see that to secure ahead, you have to bring each other down; When they see that you don’t have high numbers, those who were your best music friends stop calling you,” he stated, as reported by 20 Minutos.
Criticism of the Spanish Music Scene
Montes criticized the lack of support for Spanish urban artists, noting the dominance of Latin artists from countries like Argentina, Mexico, and Puerto Rico in the Spanish music charts. He attributed this to a lack of domestic support, stating, “Why do you believe that in the top 50 of the charts in recent years they are almost always Latinos? …because we don’t have the support we should.”
Concerns About Mental Health and Authenticity
The singer likewise touched upon the mental health challenges faced by musicians, acknowledging that some artists retire in their early 20s due to the pressures of the industry. He emphasized that his decision wasn’t based on age but on a loss of passion. “One no longer has the same desire and enthusiasm from the beginning,” he explained.
Montes expressed a desire for his music to be appreciated while he is still actively creating it, stating, “It seems like I have to die or something has to happen to me for them to listen to me; Enjoy me now, I’m alive.”
“Ayer La Vi” Remix and Future Plans
Despite his impending retirement, Montes presented the remix of “Ayer La Vi” with Juan Magán on El Hormiguero. The song, released in 2026, is available on Spotify and has a corresponding music video on YouTube, produced by 2050 Films and featuring Lola Lolita, Sofia Surfers, Marina Mese, and Shakira.
Montes indicated he will continue making music as long as it remains enjoyable, but is prepared to move on if his career doesn’t progress. “If things don’t go up, I’m going to hell,” he stated.
Omar Montes appeared on the television program “El hormiguero” with Pablo Motos on March 23, 2026, to discuss the remix and his future plans, as reported by Movistar+.
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