It's safe to say that Latin artists and songs have been dominating the global charts recently and it’s time to give them their due. Their music is now played on radios everywhere, helping the American community expand its musical taste. Here’s a list of five recommendations from your fellow AU students (including myself) if you’re a newbie to Latin music or need some new music on your playlist.
1. If you are new to Latin music, I would first recommend J Balvin. You probably have already heard his music on the radio, such as “Mi Gente” or “Que Calor”. Deemed the “Prince of Reggaeton,” he was just named in Time Magazine as one the 100 Most Influential People of 2020. Leading the Latin Grammys with 13 nominations, he has a global audience that loves his music and infectious beats. His songs are really fun to listen to and have a universal appeal.
2. Maluma has definitely made his stamp on reggaetón. Crystal Collins (sophomore, psychology) told us that, “I love his fun beats and lyrics; he’s so fun to dance to.” She especially would like everyone to listen to his song HP “cause it’s about being young and free and enjoying life as a woman.”
3. Nathalie Batres (sophomore, psychology) recommended “Amor Eterno,” by Juan Gabriel. This beautiful ranchera, played typically at funerals and memorials, expresses the loss and love of a person who has passed. It’s heartbreakingly lovely to listen to and might bring some tears to your eyes, so prepare for some waterfalls.
4. Rosalía exploded in 2018 with her album El Mal Querer, a concept album retelling the Occitan story of Flamenca, an abused wife, with each track a chapter in her story to freedom and strength. I love her hauntingly beautiful voice and her passion for flamenco. If you like a bit more of a traditional take on flamenco, her debut album Los Angeles is full of chilling cantes.
5. If you’re feeling a bit more nostalgic, might I recommend adding “Atrevete-Te-Te” by Calle 13 to your playlist. With a cumbia beat and catchy lyrics, you will be dancing and singing along in no time. This song is absolutely timeless and will have people dancing for years to come.
Así que este es el momento de sacar tu teléfono y tus altavoces y bailar como nadie está mirando. No te preocupes, no vas a estar solo.
Works Cited
Cabello, C. (2020, September 22). J Balvin. Time.
https://time.com/collection/100-most-influential-people-2020/5888481/j-balvin/
Garcia-Navarro, L. & Evstatieva, M. (2018, August 11). Juan Gabriel’s ‘Amor Eterno’
Takes on New Meaning After El Paso Shooting. NPR.
https://www.npr.org/2019/08/11/749901083/juan-gabriels-amor-eterno-takes-on-new-meaning-after-el-paso-shooting
Roiz, J. (2020, October 2). ‘We Made a Statement’: J Balvin on Making History at a
Reggaeton-Heavy Latin Grammys (Exclusive). Billboard.
https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin/9459552/latin-grammys-2020-j-balvin-interview
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