In honor of the 2021 global hit “Pepas” by Farruko, this week’s list is composed of 13 hits all in Spanish. Latin American music has made a major breakthrough in popular American culture in recent decades with influential artists such as Shakira, Marc Anthony and Daddy Yankee. With such a rich cultural history, the Latin American sound cannot be encapsulated by just one song or one artist. This week’s list is a blend of artists from all over the world who each have their own unique story and sound. 

1. “La Camisa Negra” By Juanes

“La Camisa Negra” is a darker ode to heartbreak. About a love that was riddled with lies and deception, Juanes’s iconic revenge song captures the emotions many feel at the end of a nasty breakup.

2. “Darte Un Beso” By Prince Royce

Latin pop-bachata artist Prince Royce has helped make a name for Latin pop in America. Prince Royce has worked with major artists from all over the world, such as Snoop-Dogg and Shakira. 

3. “Reggaeton Lento (Bailemos)” By CNCO

“Reggaeton Lento (Bailemos)” is a reggaeton dance hit. Reggaeton has become increasingly popular in the United States over the past two decades. Some notable reggaeton hits are “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi, “Mi Gente” by J Balvin and “Con Calma” by Daddy Yankee.

4. “Flor” By Gabriel Garzón-Montano

“Flor” is a heartfelt indie track with a simple guitar instrumental. Garzón-Montano incites feelings of longing and solitude with this passionate piece.

5. “Propuesta Indecente” By Romeo Santos

“Propuesta Indecente” is a mixture of salsa and bachata instrumentals with tender lyrics to match. This sensual tune is versatile and perfect for any more-relaxed mood.

6. “No Me Digas Que No” By Enrique Iglesias, Wisin, and Yandel

From Inglesias’ iconic 2010 album Euphoria, “No Me Digas Que No” encapsulates the techno-pop sound of the 2010s while staying true to the artist’s Spanish roots. 

7. “Tu Sonrisa” By Elvis Crespo

Grammy-winning merengue artist Elvis Crespo is a cherished icon in many Puerto Rican and Cuban households. Crespo has 27 billboard charters making him one of the most successful Latin American artists. For context, Shakira has 40 Billboard Top 100 hits under her name and Marc Anthony follows her closely after. 

8. “Chantaje” By Shakira, Maluma

One of Shakira’s relatively new tracks, “Chantaje” is a fervent hit about the enticing lust experienced between two people with the odds against their love. This duet between two iconic Colombian artists encapsulates the rich sense of sensuality and passion often showcased by Latin American music.

9. “La Sinvergüenza” By Christian Nodal, Banda MS de Sergio Lizárraga 

“La Sinvergüenza” is a classic Mexican mariachi piece. Mariachi is one of Mexico’s most cherished genres with bands at nearly every important family event or wedding. Mariachi music will undoubtedly evoke strong emotions within any listener with its heartfelt lyrics and passionate instrumentals.

10. “El Chico Del Apartamento 512” By Selena

Selena is undoubtedly one of the most influential Latin American musicians to date. “El Chico Del Apartamento 512” is a classic Selena ballad and one of her best known tracks. 

11. “Celdas” By Los Enanitos Verdes

Los Enanitos Verdes is one of the most influential Latin American rock groups in existence. The Argentine band is best known for their iconic 1994 album Big Bang. If you’re a fan of classic rock, Los Enanitos Verdes is right up your alley. 

12. “Este Viaje” By Vale

For lovers of artists like Haim, The Japanese House, or The Aces, Vale is a Latin-American group with a similar sound. “Este Viaje” is a chill track with euphoric vocals and smooth instrumentals. 

13. “Mujer” By Ramona

“Mujer” is a beautiful blend of rock, electronica and indie. Ramona is a Mexican band devoted to incorporating the sounds of Mexico and romanticism, while portraying human vulnerability.