Rafael became more well known in the world of flamenco in the year 1997 when famous Spanish flamenco dancer Cristina Hoyos invited him to join her cast on her world tour.
Briefly after, in 2001, Rafael de Utrera made his final breakthrough when Paco de Lucía himself asked Rafael to accompany his world tour in Europe, Japan, and America.
He has collaborated on albums with artists such as José Mercé, José Antonio Rodríguez, Niño de Pura, the documentary of the life of Paco de Lucia, Vicente Amigo's latest album with Alejandro Sanz, Enrique Morente, and Niña Pastori.
The most recent collaboration was with the Netherlands Metropole Orchestra under the direction of Vince Mendoza where he recorded a live album called "Proyecto Lorca".
[3][4] At the moment, Rafael is performing with the guitarist Vicente Amigo and his cast including his wife, flamenco dancer Carmen Lozano.