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Music of Passion: A Roundup of Artists Representing Latin Music

When you hear “Latin music,” what kind of music comes to mind?

As the term suggests, Latin music was born in Central and South America, and it encompasses many subgenres rooted in places like Cuba, the Caribbean, and Brazil.

So even though we call it all “Latin,” the styles are quite diverse.

In fact, there are many hit songs—not only in Western music but also in Japanese pop—that incorporate Latin elements, and Latin music artists enjoy worldwide popularity.

This article introduces artists who represent Latin music.

You might even discover, “Wait, this artist is Latin?”

Be sure to check it out!

Music of Passion: A Roundup of Representative Latin Music Artists (11–20)

Así FueJuan Gabriel

Juan Gabriel – Así Fue (En Vivo [Desde el Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes])
Así FueJuan Gabriel

Juan Gabriel, a legendary singer-songwriter representing Mexico, has solidified his place in the Latin music world since releasing his debut album, El Alma Joven…, in 1971.

He rose to wide fame with his early signature song No Tengo Dinero, and his 1984 album Recuerdos, Vol.

II became the best-selling album in Mexico’s history.

His song Querida dominated the charts at No.

1 for a full year, and his musical style spans Latin pop, ballads, bolero, and mariachi, producing countless hits.

In 2001, Abrázame Muy Fuerte became the most successful Latin single of the year, winning multiple Billboard Latin Music Awards.

Posthumously in 2016, he also received three Latin Grammy Awards.

Expressing passion, emotion, and a deep love for Mexican culture, Juan’s music is sure to resonate with people around the world.

Mambo NegroPeresu Puraado gakudan

A powerful piece that brilliantly fuses traditional Cuban rhythms with American big band jazz.

The Pérez Prado Orchestra’s brass section delivers a dazzling melody, while the passionate percussion creates a dynamic, vibrant sound that leaves a lasting impression.

This track is included on the album “COLEZO! Pérez Prado Orchestra,” which compiles recordings from 1970 to 1987, allowing listeners to savor the true essence of the “King of Mambo.” Pérez Prado first visited Japan in 1956 and went on to perform there 17 times, achieving immense popularity as his music was featured as TV theme songs and in commercials.

Its cheerful, dance-inducing groove makes it perfect for parties and dance events.

Market MamboPeresu Puraado gakudan

It features a passionate Latin sound highlighted by a lavish lineup of brass and saxophones led by Cuban-born Pérez Prado.

Riding on especially powerful brass and a sprightly rhythm, this track vividly captures the energy and bustle of a marketplace, punctuated by Prado’s signature shout, “Ahh—Uh!” Released by Victor Entertainment in July 2016 as part of the album ‘The Ultimate Mambo: Japan Tour Commemorative Edition,’ it showcases masterful performances from Prado’s mature period, the very artist who sparked the global mambo craze of the 1950s.

Its dazzling, step-inducing dance hall sound remains a staple for livening up party scenes and continues to be loved around the world today.

Mambo A La KentonPaquito D’Rivera

An exhilarating Latin number woven from a powerful brass section and sprightly percussion.

Featured as the opening track on the album “Tropicana Nights,” this piece by Cuba-born Paquito D’Rivera masterfully fuses Stan Kenton’s big-band sound with the Cuban mambo.

Recorded in 1999, it radiates a deep affection for Cuba’s legendary nightclub, the Tropicana, and its enchanting melodies—driven by D’Rivera’s clarinet and saxophone—set the heart dancing.

In 2000, it won the inaugural Latin Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album.

A perfect pick when you want to energize a dance party or live event.

Bumblebee MamboPeresu Puraado gakudan

Bumblebee Mambo — Pérez Prado Orchestra
Bumblebee MamboPeresu Puraado gakudan

Born from the classic masterpiece The Tale of Tsar Saltan, this work is a tour de force included on the 1957 album King Prado in Stereo.

Its arrangement, which fuses the elegance of classical melodies with Latin rhythms, greatly expanded the concept of mambo.

The majestic soundscape created by the powerful brass section and Ollie Mitchell’s trumpet performance vividly attests to Prado’s musical genius.

Prado, a native of Cuba, showcased his inventive arranging on TBS Television’s 1963 program Titans of Music, captivating viewers.

It’s a perfect track for a dance hall party or whenever you need an energy boost.

Crazy About MamboPeresu Puraado gakudan

This track captivates with a passionate Latin sound woven from a powerful brass section and dynamic rhythms.

It’s a signature work by the Pérez Prado Orchestra, led by Cuban-born Dámaso Pérez Prado, and is included on the December 1996 release PEREZ PRADO DELUXE 1.

MAMBO SUCCESS.

In July 2016, it was also featured on the album The Ultimate Mambo.

Its innovative arrangement skillfully fuses elements of jazz and rock, overturning conventional notions of mambo and captivating many dance fans.

The brilliant interplay between the horn section and percussion has made it a timeless favorite across generations, a staple for energizing party scenes and dance floors.

Music of Passion: A Roundup of Leading Latin Music Artists (21–30)

Mambo on SaxPeresu Puraado gakudan

This irresistible track features a passionate Latin sound woven from a powerful brass section and lively percussion.

Included on the 1958 album “Mambo En Sax,” it showcases the Pérez Prado Orchestra, led by Cuban bandleader Pérez Prado, in a grand performance highlighted by soaring saxophone melodies.

The exquisite fusion of Latin music and jazz delivers dynamic rhythms and dazzling melodies that stir the soul.

Perfect for dance parties or whenever you want to savor a Latin atmosphere, it stands as an iconic performance of the 1950s mambo boom and continues to captivate music fans around the world.