Yako Páez, the stage name of José Alberto Díaz Páez, is a Venezuelan music producer, singer-songwriter, arranger, musical director, and multi-instrumentalist. He was born on December 14, 1982, in Mérida, Venezuela, and is currently based in Caracas. With over two decades of experience, he has established himself as a key figure in contemporary Venezuelan music, known for his versatility, emotional depth, and strong connection to every project he leads.
He grew up in La Pastora, a historic parish in Caracas, where he took his first steps in music. At the age of six, he learned to play the Venezuelan cuatro under Professor Luis Camargo at the Casa de la Juventud in La Pastora—an experience that marked the beginning of his formal musical training. By fifteen, driven by curiosity and artistic sensitivity, he began teaching himself guitar, learning songs by ear from artists like Maná and Silvio Rodríguez, and receiving valuable guidance from musician friends who enriched his learning.
His professional career began as a guitarist and vocalist in the Rolling Band, a group with which he toured extensively across Venezuela, performing alongside iconic figures from the national music scene of the 60s, 70s, and 80s. This live performance experience gave him a deep understanding of stagecraft and the dynamics of a complete musical show.
Between 2016 and 2017, he lived in the Dominican Republic, working as a musician in the hotel industry and sharing stages with international artists such as Magic Juan, Proyecto Uno, and the Cuban duo Buena Fe. This period marked a phase of stylistic expansion, reinforcing his ability to adapt and blend sounds from various musical cultures.
Today, Yako Páez is dedicated to music production, arranging, songwriting, and the artistic direction of diverse projects spanning genres such as urban fusion, Latin pop, R&B, Afrobeat, and Latin American folk. He has worked with well-known artists such as Diveana, Roberto Antonio, Hany Kauam, Omar Acedo, Reny, Gualberto Ibarreto, and his main collaborator Román El Ro.
With Román El Ro, Yako maintains a close creative partnership—not only as a producer but also as an arranger and musical director for his songs and live performances. Together, they have crafted a distinctive and emotionally powerful sound that resonates with a wide audience.
In parallel, he leads the children’s music project Las Qshes, featuring his daughters Brianna and Sahara Díaz, which blends modern rhythms with educational lyrics aimed at kids. He is currently producing two children’s albums and an original solo album that explores new textures and musical fusions with an authentic approach to Latin American identity.
Yako Páez is an artist committed to excellence, respect for music, and the artistic growth of those who trust his creative guidance. His career reflects passion, constant evolution, and a genuine connection to music as a channel for expression, memory, and transformation.