I say this every year, but it does become more true: The width and breadth of what we loosely call Latin music is astounding. In fact, this may be the year that I finally stop using that term altogether. Consider the stylistic gaps in these top 10 lists: Mexican American country/Americana, jazz, Puerto Rican folk music, Barcelona-based experimental acoustic music, an ethereal film soundtrack from a Brazilian classical cellist and a couple of Afro Caribbean-based burners it truly defies any categorization.
Eladio Carrión is one of the most exciting names in Latin music. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, but raised all over, Carrión picked up different sights and sounds before his family settled in Puerto Rico when he was 11. He made his name as a comedian and social media personality before transitioning into music full-time. Carrión rose in profile thanks to collaborations with top Latin artists and a collection of songs that showcased his effortless blending of Latin trap, reggaeton and hip-hop.
Hailing from San Francisco, Bululú brings a tropical, Latin vibe to the Bay Area. And this weekend, they will be playing a free show with Salinas' Flaco El Jandro y Sus Perros Callejeros (who mix punk, cumbia, and soul) and El Pecado de Juana (a Bay Area Bolero rock trio) for a celebration of Latin and Chicano music and culture.
Rauw Alejandro embodies the very essence of the vision award, bold in creativity, future-focused in his global impact and unapologetically original in everything he does.
Saumet expressed a message she received from the universe, stating, 'it's time to make a song with Rawayana,' highlighting their deep creative connection.