Tini Drops ‘El Cielo’ & More Best New Music Latin

New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors. Check out this week’s picks below.

Sech, Tranki, Todo Pasa (Rimas Entertainment)

After a three-year hiatus and following his 2021 set 42, Sech officially makes his comeback with fifth studio album Tranki, Todo Pasa. Musically, the Panamanian artist delivers edgy reggaetón fusions with electronic music and his signature sultry reggae plena melodies. Lyrically, he’s a changed man: The opening track, “Toy Perdio,” explains why he went missing in action, and all signs lead to a heartbreak. “Tarde” further cements that analysis: “That crazy woman did so much harm to me […] the weight you left behind I can’t even carry in the gym,” he sings.

In “Chiste JAJA,” where he samples Rosalía and Tokischa’s “Linda”; in “Picasso,” where he samples La Oreja de Van Gogh’s “Rosas”; and in “Me Quedé Off,” he continues to vent about the former sour relationship. But beyond an album that’s about heartbreak, it’s a true reminder that “relax, everything passes.” The new Sech is — physically and emotionally — transformed, evolved, healed, and doing just fine, as he powerfully sings on the 14-track set, home to collaborations with Elena Rose, De La Rose, Beele and more.  — JESSICA ROIZ

Tini, “El Cielo” (Hollywood Records/5020)

Tini is precise with her lyrics in “El Cielo,” as she sings about closing a chapter of a love story that ultimately became just a short story. Mixing dance and pop with Afrobeat influences, Tini narrates the spiritual growth that comes from living life with no regrets and loving unconditionally, even if all roads lead to uncertainty. The new release follows her critically acclaimed un mechón de pelo, released in April. While the song alone is captivating, the music video is equally invigorating. Directed by Malu Boruchowicz and filmed in Buenos Aires, Tini is as free as ever dancing under the rain surrounded by her friends, expressing a joy that is almost infectious — perfectly capturing that transition from heartbreak to self-liberation. — GRISELDA FLORES

Xavi & Fuerza Regida, “STR” (Interscope Records)

Swagger and bravado pulse through “STR,” a sierreño that fires up with bold tololoche strings and commanding trumpets. As the rhythm thrums, Xavi and JOP lay out lyrical dominance and tales of empire, narrating a journey fuelled by non-believers turned to staunch supporters. The lyrics, flavored with streetwise grit and an unapologetic spirit, cruise through experiences of luxury and betrayal. “Y por eso ahorita me voy, me vale verga, ahorita yo soy el rey,” the duo asserts in the chorus, encapsulating the essence of self-made royalty. The song is a declaration of independence and unchecked power, perfect for blasting on a drive in an SRT. — ISABELA RAYGOZA

Carín León, Palabra de To’s (Socios Music LLC)

As if one song weren’t enough to channel heartbreak, Carín León presents Palabra de To’s, a 16-track album where heartbreak is the common thread in a wide range of emotions. From the heartbreaking drama of the lead single “El Amor de Mi Herida” to firm declarations like “De Su Vida Me Iré,” León creates a perfect project that demands us to sit down and listen to, sing to your heartbreak, or hang out with friends. The carefully crafted lyrics, in collaboration with 28 composers and curated by Edgar Barrera, highlight León’s style of weaving stories that sound like an intimate conversation without falling into repetitive verses.

Musically, strings predominate, played with simplicity and sensitivity, serving as a perfect canvas to highlight his voice. With just one collaboration, “Ocupo Una Limpia” with Luis Mexia, León reaffirms his ability to hold the weight of an entire solo album. On the other hand, the album cover, inspired by Da Vinci’s The Last Supper, underlines León’s intention to present this project as a banquet of emotions to share. All in all, an album so well-crafted that it is a pleasure to listen to from start to finish. — LUISA CALLE

Ryan Castro, Juanes & SOG “El Chucu Chucu” (AWOO Corp./Sony Music Latin)

Ryan Castro and his longtime producer SOG have a talent for creating the most “Parranda-style” anthems each year, making it a cherished tradition in true Ryan Castro fashion. This year is no exception and, on this occasion, he teams up with Colombian powerhouse Juanes to celebrate their shared heritage from Antioquia in Medellín. The song “El Chucu Chucu” serves as a vibrant tribute to the holiday traditions of Antioquia, seamlessly blending nostalgia with contemporary urban rhythms in a perfect mix of cumbia, plus the guitar riffs that embody Juanes’ distinctive sound. In this release, Castro adopts his alter ego ‘Richy,’ a character inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of his native Medellín, this year accompanied by his cousin Toño, portrayed by Juanes, to create a festive anthem that honors family, music, and their heritage. — INGRID FAJARDO

Los Rakas, La Raka Zaza (Raka Music)

After a five-year pause, Los Rakas burst back onto the scene with La Raka Zaza, a colorful mosaic of Afro-Latin and Afrobeat rhythms intertwined with soul-thrilling dancehall. This latest offering cousins Raka Dun and Raka Rich showcases their signature pulsating grooves and a penchant for reimagined classics, fueling an irresistible urge to thrust.

Kicking off with the sultry “Dinero Que Llueva,” their Auto-Tune-laced vocals weave hypnotic spells that set the tone for an album ripe with innovation and nostalgic nods. “Cámara Lenta,” in collaboration with Texas’ DJ/producer El Dusty, revitalizes Juvenile and Soulja Slim’s “Slow Motion” by intertwining robust dancehall elements. “Amigos Con Derecho,” featuring DJ Zaa and Mike Zuleta, flaunts melodic nylon strings alongside steamy vocals, crafting an atmosphere that’s both intimate and liberating.

The heat intensifies with “Candela,” where Nigerian artist Big Klef brings his Afrobeats genius, culminating in carefree lyricism aimed at simply having a good time. Meanwhile, “Tóxica” delivers reggae en español with a classically reverberating vocal stylings, and “Completa” alongside 2-EZ, merges dancehall with dembow. Each of the 13 tracks in La Raka Zaza contributes to a potent blend of styles and stories, marking a triumphant return for the dynamic Oakland-by-way-of-Panama duo. Los Rakas remain unapologetically themselves while crafting tracks that beckon the world to listen — and sway to the riddim. — I.R.

Yeison Jiménez & DFZM “El Tierno” (Yeison Jiménez)

Música popular Yeison Jiménez is taking a bold step into the realm of urban music alongside emerging young rapper DFZM. Their new collaboration, “El Tierno,” blends the traditional elements of Jiménez’s signature sound with contemporary, energetic beats that characterize rap. In “El Tierno,” Jiménez demonstrates that his music is capable of transcending genres, presenting a captivating sound that is both dynamic and infectious. — I.F.

Listen to more editors’ Latin recommendations in the playlist below:

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