Jose Nieves (Rakim) and Kenny Vasquez (Ken-Y) joined forces in 2004 to form the reggaeton duo Rakim y Ken-Y. A few short years after their formation, the pair climbed the ranks to reggaeton stardom, arriving in 2006 as one of the genre's most important groups. Both originating from Gurabo, Puerto Rico, the pair got their start performing at local house parties and clubs, Ken-Y singing and Rakim providing the group's lyrics and rap flow. Having been noticed by record producer Chencho lead to their first recording contract with Money Machine Records, a label owned by veteran Notty Play, whose label though influential lacked reach and means. Appearing on mix tapes and compilations caught the attention of reggaeton MC Nicky Jam and producer/label owner Raphy Pina of Pina Records. The label switch to Pina Records proved very important in the group's success, offering opportunities to work with artists like Don Omar, Nicky Jam, Polaco and Lito. Their debut record, Masterpiece met with great success and positive reviews. Nieves and Vasquez credit the success to their unique philosophy, "Our mission is to use our music to reach all kinds of people: young kids, adolescents, adults, rappers, Christians -- everybody -- and bring Reggaeton into areas of the world where it's never been before." ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, All Music Guide