Peruvian radio host Gustavo Hernandez, known as Chiki Rock, caused a stir by stating that Oscar Junior Custodio sings better than Christian Yaipen.
Hernandez made the bold selection during an episode of the podcast La Manada Galactica, choosing the 22-year-old singer over the established Grupo 5 frontman.
The choice surprised co-hosts Laura Spoya, Mario Irivarren, and Gerardo Pe, sparking an immediate reaction on air that quickly echoed across social media platforms.
The discussion began during a special edition of the program dedicated to 1980s music, before turning to contemporary Peruvian musical acts. When discussing cumbia, Hernandez highlighted the recent revival of the ensemble La Bella Luz under the creative direction of Oscar Junior Custodio, who is also known as Senderito.
Hernandez credited the young artist with helping popularize the Chiclayo-based group in recent times through his creative contributions.
Podcast debate over cumbia vocalists
Later in the episode, the hosts began a game where each participant picked their favorite among different Peruvian musical performers. When asked directly to choose between Senderito and Christian Yaipen, Hernandez picked the 22-year-old without hesitation.
Co-host Laura Spoya asked Hernandez directly if he truly believed the new leader of La Bella Luz sang better. Hernandez reaffirmed his position with a definitive yes, while clarifying that it was a matter of personal preference.
Co-host Gerardo Pe reacted with immediate disbelief, declaring on air that there was no way that could be true.
Affection, hit songs, and online critics
Addressing the reaction, Hernandez explained that his choice was shaped by a combination of personal affection and admiration for what Custodio has achieved at a young age. He noted that despite facing persistent criticism from online detractors, the young performer has delivered major hits.
Hernandez specifically pointed to the song Ojitos Mentirosos, which has accumulated 50 million views, as evidence of the artist's appeal. He stated that he wanted to understand the singer rather than simply following public sentiment, adding that he holds affection for Custodio and believes he is on the right path.
Hernandez avoided making direct comments about Christian Yaipen, the vocalist and leader of Grupo 5 who is widely regarded as one of the most prominent voices in Peruvian cumbia.
Background on Peru's cumbia leaders
Christian Yaipen leads Grupo 5, a legendary Peruvian cumbia orchestra established in Monsefu, in the Chiclayo province of northern Peru. Known across Latin America as one of the definitive acts of the genre, Grupo 5 regularly fills stadiums and commands a massive international following.
La Bella Luz is another major cumbia orchestra hailing from Chiclayo, owned by Oscar Custodio. In recent years, his son, 22-year-old Oscar Junior Custodio, has assumed a central role as key vocalist and creative leader, driving a new chapter in the group's national popularity.
Gustavo Hernandez, widely known by his on-air moniker Chiki Rock, is a veteran Peruvian radio broadcaster who has worked for popular stations including Studio 92 and La Zona, both of which are prominent music broadcasting outlets in Peru.
