Latin

Carlos Santana, a living legend in global music, hardly needs an introduction. With nearly eight decades under his belt, his influence continues to ripple across generations of artists and fans alike.

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

Now, his artistry intertwines with Grupo Frontera in “Me Retiro,” a Tex-Mex rock collaboration that celebrates resilience and emotional rebirth, with Santana stepping in as both a musical sage and spiritual guide.

The song, produced and co-written by Edgar Barrera, tells the story of someone trying to move past the pain of a broken relationship while grappling with an overwhelming sense of emptiness. Musically, “Me Retiro” blends Santana’s unmistakable electric guitar melodies — dizzying and immersive — with Grupo Frontera’s signature tejano acoustic style, where, instead of the accordion, Santana’s guitar takes center stage. The “Black Magic Woman” artist uses his electrifying rock riffs to elevate the track to a more dynamic level, while Frontera’s Texan instrumentation grounds it in the cultural and emotional roots of norteño.

Trending on Billboard

In a Zoom interview with Billboard Español, Santana reflects on the essence of the song and his connection to its message. “It’s about someone who doesn’t see themselves as a victim,” he said. “There are so many songs I didn’t like growing up, about people getting drunk and crying, like, ‘Oh, they left me, they’re gone.; That music is so depressing, and I don’t think that way — I’m a lion. If my woman leaves, let her go, I’ll find another queen with even more light. I have very strong faith, and I relate to Frontera’s lyrics because they’re basically saying, ‘I don’t give a damn.’

“I came into this world to transcend,” the musician concludes. “I’m a gardener, and my water is for all the flowers.”

Barrera was the bridge between the iconic guitarist and the Texan-Mexican group. For the producer and songwriter, this project marked a pivotal moment in his career. “It was a very special moment for me to be able to work with Santana because the first song I ever learned how to play on the guitar was ‘Samba Pa Ti’ and I played it in a talent show when I was 10 years old,” shares Barrera. “He is one of the main reasons I fell in love with music and he’s always been one of my idols so this was truly a full circle moment in my career and I’m honored that he agreed to collaborate with me.”

The creative process was just as meaningful for Grupo Frontera, whose members are still reflecting on the unforgettable opportunity to work with a musical legend. “It’s always a surreal moment when you get to collaborate with people you’ve looked up to your whole life,” said the band via email. “Edgar Barrera told us that Santana wanted to make a song together and we were shocked. Being in the same room as him, watching him work, we were speechless. We learned a lot from the experience.”

For Santana, the project felt authentic and aligned with his own musical style, creating a natural connection with Grupo Frontera. “They have so much energy and joy and I really relate to that,” Santana says. “If you break down where their music comes from, it’s African music. It’s blended with northern Texas and Mexican influences, but its foundation — just like Selena’s cumbia — is rooted in African music, and that’s something I can express very naturally.”

Despite his recent health challenges, 77-year-old Santana says he’s ready to keep sharing his magic with the world. “Thank God, I’m better than ever. I’m ready to go on tour and bring this strength and hope to people,” he says.

For him and his unmistakable guitar, the mission has always been clear: to inspire others with a “pinch of light.”

Listen to “Me Retiro” by Carlos Santana and Grupo Frontera below.

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.

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

Ángela Aguilar, Nadie Se Va Como Llegó (Machin Records)

It’s a momentous album for Ángela Aguilar, and not only because it’s the first time she’s produced her own music, but also because it captures the 21-year old’s transformational spirit. Aptly titled Nadie Se Va Como Llegó, a nod to being in a constant state of evolution, Aguilar shows how much she’s grown as a singer-songwriter since launching her recording career at just eight years old.

Showcasing maturity in the lyrics — sharing songwriting credits with the likes of Fabiola Guajardo and Amanda Coronel, to name a few — the música Mexicana star captures the peaks and valleys of womanhood via songs of empowerment, heartbreak and love. Sonically, Aguilar stays true to her mariachi roots while also incorporating norteño, pop and cumbia elements for a variety of styles. “I’m getting out of my comfort zone but still honoring my roots and traditions,” Aguilar previously told Billboard. “I just turned 21, so it’s kind of like exploring where I want my career to take me.” — GRISELDA FLORES

Trending on Billboard

Aitana, Cuarto Azul (Universal Music Spain)

Aitana has opened the doors to her Cuarto Azul (blue room) — a 19-track set that has best shaped her identity as an artist. Lyrically, the Spanish singer-songwriter opens up about evolution, self-discovery, love, heartbreaks, and healing. Musically, it fuses pop, synth, electronica, and alternative rock. The album’s title “represents the room she returns to in order to reconnect with herself, free from judgment and external influence. It’s a space of healing, where darkness rooted in sadness, anger, and frustration gradually gives way to light—a restorative process that culminates in the return of joy,” according to a press statement.

Notable tracks on the set include the riveting punk tune “Segundo Intento,” the flirty pop track “Sentimiento Natural” in collaboration with Myke Towers, and the heartfelt ballad “Hoy Es Tu Cumpleaños” with Danny Ocean. Aitana also welcomed Ela Taubert, Kenia Os, Jay Wheeler, and Barry B, and Fangoria in her Cuarto Azul. — JESSICA ROIZ

Pipe Bueno, Vives con Mariachi (Warner Music Mexico)

Known as one of the pioneer of Colombia’s música popular genre, Pipe Bueno released his latest EP, Vives con Mariachi — a heartfelt tribute to Carlos Vives, featuring the vibrant Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández. The six-track set seamlessly blends the lively Caribbean essence of vallenatos with the rich, emotive sound of mariachi, best capturing a unique aesthetic that celebrates the harmonies of strings, the brilliance of trumpets, and the depth of time-honored traditions.

Vives kicks off with “Bailar Contigo” in collaboration with Majo Aguilar, drawing listeners in with its melodic charm. “La Gota Fría” showcases Pipe’s dynamic vocal performance, where he creates a stunning counterpoint to the bold brass sections of the mariachi. In “Déjame Entrar,” collaborator Adriel Favela delivers a delicate and measured interpretation that adds layers of tension and subtlety to the track. The album moves forward with “Volví a Nacer” and “La Tierra del Olvido,” tracks that elevate Vives’ original repertoire to new emotional landscapes. — INGRID FAJARDO

Reik & Yami Safdie, “Es Tan Corta La Vida” (Sony Music México)

The Mexican band Reik teams up with the emerging Argentine artist Yami Safdie for the single “Es Tan Corta La Vida,” the only collaboration from their recent EP TQ that celebrates 20 years of their career. Together they deliver a sweet contemporary pop ballad that speaks of love in the midst of the fleeting nature of life. The sound, marked by the strumming of acoustic guitars in the style of the band’s beginnings, enhances the sincerity of phrases like “God forgives, but time doesn’t” and “life is so short for you not to be with me.” — LUISA CALLE

Yailin La Más Viral, “Todos Mienten” (Roc Nation Distribution)

With her latest single “Todos Mienten,” Yailin La Más Viral dives headfirst into the hypnotic rhythms of baile funk, once again molding Brazilian beats with her unapologetic Dominican edge. The track breathes fire, delivering biting lyrics that portray her fearless confidence: “Maldita perra tú lo va’ perder,” she sneers, capturing the raw, unfiltered energy that defines her brand.

Anchored by Consobeatz’s sultry production, the song thrives on its sly pulse and effortless swagger, setting the stage for Yailin’s continued ascent. The music video too pushes boundaries, spiking interest with provocative visuals reminiscent of Shakira’s “La Tortura” and Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball.” Drenched in oil, Yailin radiates seductive power while seated atop a motor engine in an audacious nod to rebellious allure. — ISABELA RAYGOZA

3BallMTY feat. Conjunto Nuevo Amanecer, “El Nene” (Top Music)

After an eight-year hiatus, 3BallMTY returns to the music scene with “El Nene,” a song in which their iconic tribal and techno sound feels even more powerful with the joyful cumbia touches of Conjunto Nuevo Amanecer. This fusion of Latin rhythms and trumpets, with a contagious, repetitive chorus (“Let the boy dance, let the boy dance) — sung by José Francisco Mendoza of Conjunto Nuevo Amanecer — is perfect for the dance floor, with “El Nene” as the central character, the life of the party.

The new track is part of an upcoming album that the DJ collective made up of Sergio Zavala (DJ Sheeqo Beat), Alberto Presenda (DJ Otto) and Erick Rincón plans to release soon, under the production of renowned Californian DJ Deorro — with whom they have recently shared the stage at festivals such as EDC in Las Vegas and Sueños in Chicago. — TERE AGUILAR

Alex Cuba & Bacilos, “No es de verdad” (Caracol Records)

Award-winning singer-songwriter Alex Cuba and tropipop band Bacilos join forces on “Nada Es De Verdad,” an upbeat song with a fresh sound that invites us to “let go of the drama, question excessive seriousness, and stop getting caught up in pointless arguments,” according to a press release. “Nothing is real, in every color there’s something imperfect/ Maybe seeing it this way tells us we’re awake,” says part of the infectious chorus.

“This collaboration was already written in the universe, but even I didn’t know it was meant to be,” Alex Cuba tells Billboard Español. “It’s been truly beautiful collaborating with Bacilos. They’re great people—everything has been so easy, so full of voices, so full of light, so full of good vibes.” Cuba adds that he met Bacilos’ leader Jorge Villamizar years ago at the Latin Grammys, and that when he wrote this song, he thought it would be perfect to record together. “Nada Es De Verdad” is a vibrant single perfect for a joyful start to the summer. — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS

Silvana Estrada, “Como un Pájaro” (Glassnote Records/Altafonte)

Silvana Estrada releases her first song since 2023’s “Qué Problema,” and the first preview of the new album she plans to release this year, the follow-up to her 2022 Marchita. “Como un Pájaro” (Like a Bird) was written during the coronavirus pandemic, during a period of insomnia and loneliness following a breakup, the artist has said. Driven by guitars and produced by herself, it features a string arrangement by Roberto Verástegui performed by FAME’s Skopje Studio Orchestra in Macedonia that, accompanied by her poetic lyrics, creates an intimate and melancholic atmosphere while highlighting her seductive, virtuosic voice.

This new single is a beautiful introspective piece, “an ode to silence” and loneliness, and the result of the blend of immense talent, profound sensitivity and creative freedom that the Veracruz-born songwriter faithfully exercises in her music, which has made her one of the most moving and celebrated voices on the contemporary Latin scene. — NATALIA CANO

Check out more Latin recommendations this week below:

On a humid and cloudy day in Curaçao, with its endless ocean views and pastel colonial buildings lining the streets, Colombian star RyanCastro is eager to talk about the roots that shaped him as an artist and as a person. This isn’t the all-too-familiar story of a global music sensation, but more an intimate look at the places, people, and moments that inspired his second album, Sendé (out May 29), an ambitious love letter to the Caribbean.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

Here, on the narrow streets of Jan Thiel, inside a Jeep Wrangler, Castro retraces the steps he walked years ago as a teenager juggling everyday jobs while writing songs and dreaming big. On this occasion, Billboard Español had the privilege of joining him on an intimate experience around the island.

Trending on Billboard

“It was while I was living on the island that I blew up in Colombia,” the artist recalls. “I think it was the right time to share that with everyone and let them know about my life here and my cultural influences too, because I love dancehall. A lot of the things Castro does are deeply connected to this island.”

It was during those formative years on the island — where he spent a couple seasons because his mother lives here — that he refined his sound and began gaining recognition back in Medellín, ultimately laying the groundwork for the artist he is today.

Hours later, we visit the nursing home where his mother, a nurse, works to this day — a place where Castro did shifts as a young man — while secretly ditching work and chasing his dreams. As we step inside, Castro reflects on the sacrifices his mother has made and how their journey together has shaped not only his life but also the personal story he shares on Sendé.

Zipping across the island’s sunlit landscapes, he shares laughs with old friends and waves to delighted fans, who call out to him for selfies as he explores the streets of his second home.

With his sophomore album, Castro, 31, moves away from “El Cantante del Ghetto” and fully embraces a more vulnerable, romantic side of himself. A love letter to Curaçao — the LP not only reflects a place where he lived and worked hard but also one where he unearthed a deeply personal part of his identity that had remained semi-hidden.

“Sendé is a very personal project that reflects everything I lived and learned in Curaçao,” Castro shares. “It’s full of emotion, Caribbean influences, and that dancehall vibe that’s always been part of my style.

In this album, Castro masters the fusion of genres like dancehall, kizomba, afrobeat and reggae, all infused with his signature urban style. He also collaborated with an impressive lineup of international artists, including Shaggy (“Exclusiva”), Peso Pluma (“Un Trío”), Manuel Turizo (“Menos el Cora”), and Curaçao’s renowned local singer, Dongo, on the song “Sanka”, a title that means “unfortunately” in Papiamento, a Creole language based principally on Spanish and Portuguese, spoken and written in the islands of Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire in the Netherlands Antilles.

But beyond the big names and captivating rhythms, the album is an invitation to explore his story and connect with the cultural roots that have profoundly shaped his artistic vision. “The title [Sendé] comes from Papiamento and means feeling good, positive vibes, and that’s exactly what I want to put out there,” he adds.

In an exclusive interview with Billboard Español, Ryan Castro shares the moments that shaped his life, his deep connection to Curaçao, and how Sendé became his most personal project to date.

Ryan Castro, in front of his former apartment in Curaçao, photographed on May 28 by El Skinny.

El Skinny

Curaçao holds a special place in your life. How do you feel being back now on the island?

I came to visit my family. My mom and siblings live here. Right now, we’re driving through a neighborhood called Jan Thiel. There are really beautiful houses here where wealthy people live, and a lot of Dutch folks too. We’re heading to a restaurant called Perla del Mar. I like going there because I used to work as a waiter and did a lot of things in the kitchen as well. Whenever I come to Curaçao, I bring my friends, family, or partner. I love reminiscing about those moments and sharing them with people who are super proud and happy to see me. Today, we’re on our way to grab lunch, eat some fish, and recharge.

From El Cantante del Ghetto, inspired by your upbringing in Medellín, Colombia, to Sendé, a project rooted in Curaçao — how do you feel about sharing this part of your story and reflecting on those key moments in your life?

I feel really happy because I think my fans were missing this side of me. I’ve shared a lot about my story in Medellín — life in the ghetto, singing on buses, where I came from, which is so special. But I hadn’t talked much about this side, which is also something very emotional for me. It was while I was living on the island that I blew up in Colombia. I think this was the right moment to tell them about it and let them know what life was like for me here, as well as my cultural influences, because I love dancehall. The words I often use, like “awoo,” are for them to understand where all of that comes from. A lot of the things Ryan Castro does are closely connected to this island.

We’ve noticed that you also speak Papiamento and use phrases from this language in your music. What do these expressions mean to you?

“Awoo” comes from the local language here, Papiamento. It’s a very street-style word. People here use “awoo” like “hey” or as a greeting. In Colombia, we use words like “oe” or “nea.” “Awoo” isn’t a formal word for conversation, but when I got here, I heard it all the time.

I use it on my social media, and the fans embraced it — they even call out “awoo, awoo” now to me. So, I started working with the word. This album, called Sendé — another word from Curaçao — means “lit” or “fire.” But here, people use it to mean that everything’s good. You can say “awoo” to someone, and they’ll reply “sendé.” On the streets, it’s used to say we’re feeling great, hyped, happy, partying, or full of energy. It’s a very lively word.

Ryan Castro, dancing with a cook at Perla del Mar, the restaurant where he once worked as a waiter, photographed on May 28 by El Skinny.

El Skinny

When did you move to Curaçao? You mentioned that your mom has been living on the island for quite some time.

My mom has been living here since I was a kid. Basically, I was born, and about a year later, my mom came here looking for a better future for herself and for me as well. I came here when I was around 13 or 14 years old. My mom’s intention was for me to stay and live here because she was already settled — she had her husband and everything in place. But I was too young, and I couldn’t handle it. I was in school, and I ended up going back to Colombia.

When I finished school, around 16 or 17 in Medellín, I sang on buses and hustled to make it. Once I felt more prepared, I told my mom I was ready to come back. I moved to Curaçao when I was about 20 years old. I came to spend time with her, to look for a new future in music, work, and my dreams.

In Sendé, you worked with genres like dancehall, Afrobeat and some reggae. How has Curaçao’s musical culture influenced your creative process for this album?

Here in Curaçao, there’s a lot of amazing music — party vibes and romantic tunes, at least around here. I learned a lot about kizomba, reggae, and carnival music. I think it’s super cool because during the carnivals, you hear a very unique style of music called tambú, which is a really intense drum-based sound. At that time, I was already doing dancehall, rap, and reggae before coming here. But I’d hear those rhythms and think, “How would my voice sound on that?” Or, “I want to make a song and experiment with those flows.”

Ryan Castro, en el restaurante Perla del Mar, donde fue mesero, fotografiado el 28 de mayo por El Skinny.

El Skinny

I would go to recording studios, and there were Dutch, Jamaican or Curaçaoan people — I didn’t even know how to communicate. So that pushed me too. I’d say, “Bro, I need to learn their language to understand their music and culture.” I had to learn the language, and I did it through music, by listening to songs from here and picking up the street language.

Culturally, I absorbed so much — the rhythms, the language, the way people talk, the carnivals, the parties, the music they play at the beach and in the restaurants — I loved it all. That inspired me a lot while making this album, and I even brought my creative team here so they could experience the music. I took everyone who collaborated with me on the album — producers, artists — to the boats and boat parties, the restaurant, the ocean, so they could feel the vibe of the island, and we ended up with an incredible album.

You collaborated with artists like Peso Pluma, Shaggy, Sean Paul and Manuel Turizo. Tell us, how do you decide who to collaborate with?

Honestly, I’m a bit particular about that. I like collaborating with artists I vibe with, where there’s good energy between us. Of course, this is also a business, and it’s great to work with someone who’s super popular, but honestly, that’s the least important thing to me. For me, it’s key that there’s chemistry and mutual respect. The song belongs to both of us, so we both need to be willing to put in the work — whether it’s media, videos, content, performing it live, and everything else that comes with it.

I’ve had cases where there are artists I admire a lot and have always wanted to record with, but when I meet them, I don’t vibe with them. So, I’d rather not collaborate to keep admiring them and not lose the respect I have for them. For me, making a song is an intimate and special moment between artists, and both of us need to be fully committed for the result to be something truly beautiful.

What do you hope listeners take away when they hear the album?

I hope it makes them want to hit the beach and visit Curaçao. I want them to connect more with me — my style, my flow, my roots, who I am. The idea behind the album is also to put Curaçao a little more on the map, in people’s eyes and ears. I even included an artist from here, named Dongo, on the song “Sanka.” He might not be very well-known outside the island, but here, he’s highly respected. For me, the album is also a way to give back to Curaçao for all the motivation and inspiration it has given me.

Stream Ryan Castro’s Sendé below.

Ryan Castro ‘SENDE’

Courtesy Photo

Note: The trip to report this story in Curaçao was sponsored by Ryan Castro’s team, who provided funding for airfare and accommodations.