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The world of Latin music is hotter than ever, with infectious rhythms and innovative sounds taking center stage. But behind the chart-topping hits and sold-out stadiums stand a powerhouse of Latino leaders who are shaping the industry.
From genre-bending musicians to visionary executives and strategic hitmakers, these individuals are breaking down barriers and bringing Latin music to a global audience. Meet the seven pioneers, power players, and rising stars who are redefining the soundscape of Latin music.
Musicians
1. Bad Bunny
Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, known professionally as Bad Bunny, is a Puerto Rican rapper, singer, and songwriter. He is one of the most popular Latin music artists in the world, breaking numerous records and achieving international recognition for his distinctive blend of reggaeton, trap, and Latin pop.
2. Rosalía
Rosalía Vila Tobella, known professionally as Rosalía, is a Spanish singer, songwriter, and record producer. Gaining recognition for her genre-bending music that mixes flamenco with pop, hip hop, and electronic music, she is known for her distinctive vocals and experimental approach.
3. J Balvin
José Álvaro Osorio Balvin, known professionally as J Balvin, is a Colombian singer and songwriter. He is one of the leading figures in reggaeton music, with a career that has spanned over a decade. J Balvin has won numerous awards, including five Latin Grammy Awards.
Executives
4. Alejandro Duque
Alejandro Duque is a force to be reckoned with in the Latin music industry. Before taking the helm as president at Warner Music Latin America in 2021, Duque was a key player at Universal Music Group, where he supercharged digital revenue by a whopping 200 percent over two years. Duque’s expertise in the digital realm is a game-changer for Latino artists, helping them reach new audiences and achieve global recognition.
5. Jesús López
Jesús López is the chairman and CEO of Universal Music Latin America, another major record label in the Latin music industry. Under his leadership, Universal Music Latino has signed some of the biggest names in Latin music and has helped to promote Latin music around the world. Plus, he’s the only music industry executive to have received the Gold Medal for Merit in the Fine Arts from the King and Queen of Spain.
Songwriters and Producers
6. Sky Rompiendo
Alejandro Ramírez Suárez, better known as Sky Rompiendo, is a Dominican Republic record producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Daddy Yankee. He is known for his innovative and genre-bending production style.
7. Tainy
Marco Efrain Maldonado Justiniano, known professionally as Tainy, is a Puerto Rican record producer, songwriter, and singer. He is one of the most successful Latin music producers of all time, having worked with artists such as Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Cardi B.
Honorable Mentions
Rebeca León
Rebeca León isn’t just a manager, she’s a powerhouse. Founder and CEO of Lionfish Entertainment, León steers the careers of some of Latin music’s biggest stars, including Rosalía and J Balvin. Her roster boasts past clients like Juanes and currently includes sizzling Brazilian superstar Anitta. León is a champion for her artists, fiercely advocating for their success and skillfully navigating the ever-evolving music industry.
Carlos Abreu
International touring is Carlos Abreu‘s specialty. This bilingual powerhouse at United Talent Agency (UTA) is one of the few London-based agents crafting strategic tours across Europe and the globe for both Latin and non-Latin artists. He’s a global strategist for superstars like Rosalía, guiding her career alongside UTA Partner and Co-Head of Global Music Samantha Kirby Yoh. Abreu’s magic touch extends to Latin music royalty Bad Bunny and sizzling Brazilian star Anitta. His diverse roster also includes rising talents like Morad, Tokischa, and Ayra Starr. Looking to break through to international audiences? Carlos Abreu is the maestro behind the music.
This list merely scratches the surface of the incredible talent and influence that Latino and Hispanic leaders have on the music industry today. As music continues to evolve and break down borders, one thing remains certain: Latin music is a force to be reckoned with, and these innovative leaders are sure to keep pushing the boundaries and inspiring generations to come.
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This article was written with the assistance of AI.
