Hi there! As a Spanish student at university I have come to know of various genres of Spanish-language music over the years. Thus, I thought I’d write an article detailing my appreciation for it and provide some recommendations.
I began broadening my tastes in music after my teacher showed us a song by Marc Anthony in class, and ever since then I have been obsessed! These songs form part of the reggaetón genre, which originated from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico during the 90s, and is generally more upbeat and mainstream.
Spanish music has played an integral part in my language acquisition skills over the years. Songs not only teach you slang from various countries, but also include modern phrases which help to broaden your vocabulary and general knowledge. It allows for you to comprehend how a different language has evolved, and the differentiations between academic and everyday use. Attempting to translate songs enables you to grasp syntax, recognise the differences between your native tongue and Spanish, as well as seeing what translations sound the most natural and authentic.
Discovering Spanish music is a truly magical journey. Even if one is unfamiliar with the language, the rhythms and melodies are upbeat and convey a multitude of emotions. The beats, voices, and visuals of the music videos are more than enough to compensate for non-Spanish speakers who enjoy this music. Spanish language music encompasses a plethora of genres, and it is a fascinating representation of the various multi-continental Spanish and Latin American cultures.
Many artists use traditional music and add a modern twist to it, whilst others have expanded what was underground, and has now become popularised (such as reggaetón or trap). I truly believe that the collaborations between Spanish speaking artists with those from other countries has enabled Spanish music to have a place on the global stage, and now it is not uncommon to hear Spanish verses on the radio or in videos on social media. With the popularisation of apps such as spotify, youtube, and tik tok, Spanish music has been able to expand its reach globally. Music streaming platforms such as spotify have an extensive list of playlists so there is always something new to discover, whether that be upcoming artists or a brand new song.
Overall, Spanish music is definitely something everyone should listen to as there is something to suit every taste. On that note, here is a list of some of my favourite tunes. I have translated the titles as well as some of the lyrics, but to be frank the English versions do not do these songs justice!
Chill:
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Bella y sensual (Beautiful and Sensual) – Romeo Santos, Daddy Yankee, Nicky Jam
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Odio (Hate) : Romeo Santos, Drake
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Sky Walker Spanish Version – Miguel
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Besos Mojados (Wet Kisses) : Ozuna, R.K.M & Ken- Y
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Culpa al corazón (Blame the heart) : Prince Royce
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Indecente (Indecent): Anitta
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Ocean: Karol G. ‘Quiero que sepas que te amo eternamente, que cuando dije “Sí,” lo dije para siempre’ (‘I want you to know that I love you forever. When I said “Yes”, I meant it forever’)
Partayyy:
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Soltera (Single): Lunay
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Felices los 4 – Maluma
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Como La Flor (Like the flower): Selena. This song is a classic!
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Dinero Spanish Version: Trinidad Cardona
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Downtown: Anita, J Balvin
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Quiere Beber (She wants to drink) : Anuel AA
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Si o No (Yes or No) : Anitta, Maluma
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Punto G (G point) : Karol G
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Estamos Bien (We’re fine) : Bad Bunny. ‘ En privado siempre vuelo, en el cuello tengo hielo’ (I always fly privately, there’s ice on my neck’)
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Mi regalo eres tú (The Gift): Adrienne Houghton. ‘Solo una cosa tengo en mi mente. Nuestro amor durara eternamente’ (‘ I only have one thing on my mind. Our love will last for an eternity’)
Songs to add to your playlist:
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Yo Voy: Zion y Lennox, Daddy Yankee
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Soy Peor (I’m worse off): Bad Bunny
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TTI (Remix) :Rauw Alejandro
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Borro Cassette (She blacked out) : Maluma
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Lejos de Aqui (Far away from here): Farruko, Nan2
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El Amante (Lover) : Nicky Jam
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Dile Que Tu Me Quieres (Tell him you love me): Ozuna
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Luz Apaga (Lights out) : Ozuna