Even though we casually lump it all together as Latin music, the genres span a huge range—from Spain, Portugal, Italy, Cuba, and beyond.
When you actually try to dig into Latin music, it’s easy to struggle with where to start, right?
Sooo…!
This time, we’ve picked standout Latin tracks from a variety of countries—Spain, Cuba, Italy, Portugal, and even Chile and Colombia!
Rather than focusing on popularity, we chose based on song craftsmanship and the artists’ skill.
If you’re looking for “high-sense” music with real quality, this is a must-see!
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VolareGipsy Kings
The band Gipsy Kings is from France.
Because they release songs in Spanish, they’re often mistaken for being Spanish, but they’re actually French.
Their song “Volare” is one of their signature tracks, but it’s not an original.
The original is an Italian song by Domenico Modugno called “Nel blu dipinto di blu,” which won at the very first Grammy Awards.
Rather than a straightforward cover, the Gipsy Kings’ version feels more like an homage, with parts of the lyrics sung in Spanish.
It’s a bit of a complicated piece—a French band singing in Spanish and Italian, covering a classic from Italy (lol)—but the track is superbly crafted, so definitely give it a listen.
CarusoLucio Dalla
A love deeper than the bottom of the sea.
That phrase perfectly suits the Italian masterpiece “Caruso.” Composed by Italian singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla, this song depicts the final romance of the great tenor Enrico Caruso.
Despite his exceptional talent and worldwide acclaim, Caruso suffered a severe bronchial illness late in life.
Even though it threatened his career as a singer, he adjusted his technique and continued to take the stage, but his condition worsened day by day.
In 1921, at the young age of 48, he passed away with his wife by his side.
Moved by Caruso’s life, Lucio Dalla researched the hotels where he convalesced and examined various materials, crafting “Caruso” as an expression of Caruso’s feelings.
I, the author, listen to music from all over the world, yet I have still not found a song that surpasses “Caruso.” In melody, lyrics, the artist’s prowess, and the power of its message, it is a perfect, genuine work of art.
Despacito ft. Daddy YankeeLuis Fonsi
Luis Fonsi’s biggest hit, “Despacito” featuring Daddy Yankee.
Even if you’re not familiar with Latin music, you’ve probably heard this song.
It was already popular worldwide, but in Japan its popularity really took off after Justin Bieber released the remix version.
Classic Japan—always a bit late (lol)! The track is a quintessential reggaeton tune.
Highly recommended if you like upbeat, danceable songs!
CubafoníaDaymé Arocena
Daymé Arocena is an artist from Cuba.
She’s known for her distinctive style that fuses her African-rooted folk music with Cuban Afro, creating a truly one-of-a-kind genre.
Depending on the track, she also weaves elements like slow jazz and techno into the folk foundation.
Her strong compositional skills have earned her acclaim among discerning listeners and critics worldwide.
“Cubafonía” is one of her signature pieces, crafted with her uniquely Cuban Afro sound.
Quem Me DeraMariza
Mariza, the artist hailed as the queen of Portugal’s traditional music, fado.
Although she’s even called the Queen of Fado, she was actually born not in Portugal but in Mozambique.
Considering Mozambique’s economic situation, she likely had a poor childhood.
The messages that arise from such a dramatic life are incredibly powerful and have been highly acclaimed in countries around the world.
Her song “Quem Me Dera” is one of her masterpieces, brilliantly blending contemporary music with fado.
Bésame muchoEmilio Tuero
Composed in 1940, “Bésame mucho” was written by the Mexican composer Consuelo Velázquez.
What’s remarkable is the timing: she composed the song when she was just 15 years old.
At first glance the lyrics might seem sensual, but in fact they express the feelings of someone who had never experienced a first kiss.
Knowing the meaning of the lyrics can really change the way the song sounds to you, don’t you think?
Grande amoreIl Volo
The Three Tenors—a group that brought together some of the world’s top tenors like Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, and José Carreras.
Il Volo, who sing “Grande amore,” were formed as successors to that legacy.
Unfortunately, since not all of them are formally trained opera singers, their skill level falls well short of the Three Tenors, but their deep love for canzone truly comes through.
That said, compared to ordinary singers, all three of them have incredibly strong vocals (lol).
“Grande amore” is one of their signature songs, crafted with a dramatic melody.
If you love passionate music, definitely give it a listen!