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New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard and Billboard Español editors. Check out this week’s picks below.
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ROSALÍA feat. Björk & Yves Tumor, “Berghain” (Columbia Records)
Music for musicians and food for thinkers — that’s the best way to describe “Berghain”, the first single from Spanish superstar ROSALÍA’s upcoming album, LUX, featuring Björk and Yves Tumor. Laden with symbolism both in its lyrics and accompanying video, the piece — structured in operatic movements —surprises with Rosalía’s lyrical performance, gliding seamlessly between English, German, and her native Spanish. “Berghain,” possibly a nod to the exclusive Berlin nightclub, is steeped in a gothic mystique that frames its central theme: a woman tormented by a toxic relationship, portrayed most vividly in the video, where Rosalía embodies a Snow White straight out of the Brothers Grimm.
Surrounding her, the London Symphony Orchestra, appearing as she performs domestic chores like ironing, seem to personify the thoughts that haunt her, in a mise-en-scène rich with religious symbolism. In the end, Rosalía breaks free, transforming into a dove that takes flight. As a preview, the single leaves a lasting impression and builds anticipation for the full album, set to be released on November 7. Just watch it above. — LUISA CALLE
Maria Becerra & XROSS, “JOJO” (Warner Music Latina)
Through her latest release “JOJO,” co-produced and co-written with XROSS (real name: Xavier Rosero), Maria Becerra introduces her new alter ego. Sensuality, dominance, and fiery power embody Becerra’s new chapter that sonically, is a hard-hitting dancehall fused with R&B elements, and lyrically, it’s about a girl named Jojo, who has a magnetic force and has no competition. “She knows she’s a badass/ And that no one can match her/ She’s always like this/ Jojo wants dembow,” Becerra chants with confidence. “JOJO” marks the first single off of Becerra’s forthcoming studio album, QUIMERA, set for Nov. 20. — JESSICA ROIZ
GALE, Lo Que Puede Pasar (Sony Music Latin)
On her second studio album, Puerto Rican singer-songwriter GALE delivers a sharp, shimmering pop across 13 tracks that explore heartbreak, new beginnings, and the nostalgia of first times. The LP, which includes the previously released singles “Ciao!“, “Ysilandia” featuring ROBI, “Skittles,” and “Por Si Las Dudas” with LAGOS, also features collaborations with Danny Ocean on “Pa’ Qué Te Quedas” and Abraham Mateo on “No Quería Quererte” — both similar in rhythm (mid-tempo pop songs that explode into a powerful EDM beat) but with distinct vibes and messages.
The set opens with “Perspectiva,” a catchy track about beginning to fall for someone, and closes with “Domingo,” a moving reflection on the passage of time with a soothing vocal and guitar arrangements. The title track stands out for its infectious rhythm and lyrics about the excitement of “anything that can happen” on that first date with that special someone. Beautifully produced from beginning to end, Lo Que Puede Pasar showcases an evolution in the sound of GALE, one of the most sought-after songwriters in Latin music, whose credits include hits for superstars like Shakira, Christina Aguilera, and Juanes. — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS
Banda El Recodo, “Solo Tú” (FONO/El Recodo Enterprises)
One of Camilo Sesto’s greatest classics is given new life in the Sinaloan banda style with this new cover by Banda El Recodo. The trumpets lend a romantic, even sensual touch to this anthem of desperate love, complemented by the vocals of Ricardo Yocupicio and Geovanni Mondragón and the rest of the instrumentation, which includes the essential tuba, clarinets, and horns. Originally released in 1976, “Solo Tú” speaks of a love for which one gives and sacrifices everything. The song is the first single from the upcoming album by “the mother of all bands,” and its video features the band members in black and white tuxedos, giving this work the elegance it deserves. — TERE AGUILERA
Majo Aguilar, “Chilo” (Universal Music México)
In her latest single, the young star of the Aguilar dynasty shows how to transform the pain of a breakup into a feeling of freedom and peace. She does so with great style, to the rhythm of a classic ranchera, but adding sierreño guitars for a contemporary touch. This empowering anthem, which emboldens and motivates her to move forward with dignity after a heartbreak, borrows a popular colloquial expression from the northern Mexican states of Sonora and Sinaloa, where people often use the word “chilo” to refer to something “nice,” “amazing,” or “great.”
“Chilo, I’m doing great/ Don’t worry, I won’t seek your affection anymore/ Chilo, I’m here at 100%/ I wish you the good and the bad you did to me,” goes the chorus, which highlights Aguilar’s melodic and powerful voice. The track is accompanied by a music video directed by QUIÉN, which features Majo on a recording set, with a vibrant orange desert and skies filled with lightning, creating a dramatic and powerful tone. — NATALIA CANO
Check out more Latin recommendations this week below:
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Billboard Latin Music Week 2025 included a series of emerging artists showcases, featuring everyone from Lupita Infante and Christian Alicea to Alejo, Zizzy and Chaparro Chuacheneguer.
Held in the Stardust Lounge at the Fillmore Miami Beach, the intimate concerts began on Monday, October 20th, with a set presented by Platoon featuring Colombian musician and producer Golden, known for his musical versatility (R&B, Afrobeats, hip-hop, pop) and collaborations with artists such as Beelé, Hamilton, and Maria Becerra. Golden made his debut as a singer in June with the album Saoko Vol. 1, in which he shares his African roots, fusing them with salsa and lyrics that largely pay tribute to women. He was joined by two special guests: Cartagena-born Zaider, recognized for his fusion of Afrobeats and reggaetón; and producer Slow Mike.
On Tuesday, Oct. 21st, Peermusic presented an energetic showcase featuring four of its stars. Mexican artist Zizzy kicked things off with his unique fusion of rap, reggaetón, and R&B, adding a touch of romance. Famous for his collaborations with stars like Yng Iván and Álvaro Díaz, the Monterrey native demonstrated his talent as one of the most promising artists in the Latin urban genre. Next up was Alejo, the young Puerto Rican star who’s latest achievements include appearing at Lollapalooza Chile, performing at the Lunario in Mexico City, and participating in summer festivals in Spain. With his urban style and catchy rhythms, he had not only his fans singing and dancing, but also those he won over at the event.
Lupita Infante’s feminine presence added a special touch to the evening. Accompanied by a mariachi band, the great Pedro Infante’s granddaughter showcased her spectacular voice, singing the ranchera songs that have earned her two Latin Grammy nominations with her bold style and soulful vocals. Christian Alcea closed the show, captivating the audience with his energetic performance and getting everyone dancing. His spectacular way of fusing traditional salsa with modern rhythms, combined with his charisma, gives the genre a unique flavor.
To close out the week, Mexican music and dance took over the final showcase at Billboard Latin Music Week on Wednesday, Oct. 22, beginning with Silvia Zepeda’s rancheras, an artist signed to Luz Record who has been carving out a place for herself in the regional Mexican music scene throughout 2025. The audience sang along to songs like “Un Puño de Tierra,” in which she was accompanied by Lorenzo Méndez, one of the most respected voices in the genre and former lead singer of La Original Banda El Limón.
Meanwhile, Gerardo Fernández showcased his powerful voice, performing rancheras as well. With 13 albums in his discography, Pedro Fernández’s brother remains true to his roots, and he demonstrated this on stage.
The energy and fun came courtesy of two artists who are causing sensation on social media and within the Latino community of California. First, Juanito El Millonzuki, also known as “the king of urban ranch,” got the crowd dancing with his upbeat set. Shortly after, he was joined by another charismatic performer, Chaparro Chuacheneger — short in stature but with a big heart when it comes to spreading his positive energy through his songs, bringing the party to a close.
With over 30 years of history, Latin Music Week is the largest and most important gathering of Latin artists and industry executives worldwide. This year’s event featured a star-studded lineup that included Aitana, Anuel AA, Bebeshito, Carlos Vives, Carín León, Danny Ocean, DJ Khaled, Daddy Yankee, Emilia Mernes, Ivy Queen, Gloria Estefan, Grupo 5, Kapo, Laura Pausini, Luck Ra, Netón Vega, Olga Tañón, Óscar Maydon, Ozuna, Pablo Alborán, Rawayana, Suzette Quintanilla, Tokischa, Xavi, Yailin La Más Viral, and more.
Billboard Latin Music Week also coincided with the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards, which aired on Thursday, Oct. 23, on Telemundo, where Bad Bunny was honored as Top Latin Artist of the 21st Century.
Alejo
Image Credit: Chris Medina
Alejo during the Billboard Latin Music Week 2025 Day 2 Showcase & Happy Hour (Presented by peermusic) at Stardust Lounge on October 21, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
Silvia Zepeda
Image Credit: Chris Medina
Silvia Zepeda at Emerging Artist Showcase (Presented by UNO Production) at Stardust Lounge on October 21, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
Golden
Image Credit: Nick Vega
Golden during the Billboard Latin Music Week 2025 Day 1 – Emerging Artist Showcase (Presented by Platoon) on October 20, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
Chaparro Chuacheneguer
Image Credit: Chris Medina
Chaparro Chuacheneguer at Emerging Artist Showcase (Presented by UNO Production) at Stardust Lounge on October 21, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
Lupita Infante
Image Credit: Chris Medina
Lupita Infante during the Billboard Latin Music Week 2025 Day 2 Showcase & Happy Hour (Presented by peermusic) at Stardust Lounge on October 21, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
Zizzy
Image Credit: Chris Medina
Zizzy during the Billboard Latin Music Week 2025 Day 2 Showcase & Happy Hour (Presented by peermusic) at Stardust Lounge on October 21, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
Juanito El Millonzuki and Gerardo Fernández
Image Credit: Chris Medina
Juanito El Millonzuki and Gerardo Fernández at Emerging Artist Showcase (Presented by UNO Production) at Stardust Lounge on October 21, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida.
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When Juan Gabriel released his debut album El Alma Joven (1971) — which included the hit “No Tengo Dinero” — and received his first paycheck, the iconic Mexican singer-songwriter bought a house for his mother and gifted himself a Super 8 camera to meticulously document his life on and off stage. Years later, that vast video archive became the foundation for a documentary narrated in his own voice.
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In Juan Gabriel: I Must, I Can, I Will (Juan Gabriel: Debo, Puedo y Quiero), a four-episode docuseries available on Netflix starting Thursday (Oct. 30), the artists also known as the “Divo de Juárez” is showcased like his audience has never seen before: through his own lens and from his intimate perspective. This was made possible thanks to access granted to documentary filmmaker María José Cuevas to hundreds of tapes recorded by the artist himself from the 1970s until shortly before his death in August 2016.
“What makes this project unique is being immersed in the two personas: the private and the public figure,” Cuevas tells Billboard Español in an interview in Mexico City. “Juan Gabriel was music. Alberto Aguilera Valadez (his real name) was his pause.”
Cuevas explains that she relied on hundreds of home videos, concert recordings, family scenes, and intimate moments that had been stored in a warehouse for over 40 years. But the sheer volume of material — “all filmed by him and for him,” she emphasizes — became the project’s main challenge for the filmmaker, producers Laura Woldenberg and Ivonne Gutiérrez, and their team.
“Any cassette could hold a gem. There were tapes in 8 mm format, VHS, everything,” Gutiérrez recounts. “We had thousands of photos, many audio and video files, but the story was crafted by Juan Gabriel with the recordings he left behind.”
The series title comes from a newspaper headline after his first concert at the iconic Palacio de Bellas Artes in 1990, a performance that sparked great controversy due to criticism of his desire to perform at Mexico’s most prestigious cultural venue as a popular artist. This chapter in the great singer-songwriter’s life is one of the most symbolic moments in the documentary. The phrase is also included in his song “Debo Hacerlo.”
Juan Gabriel in Juan Gabriel: I Must, I Can, I Will
Netflix
That very first concert in 1990 — one of three Juan Gabriel performed at the Palacio de Bellas Artes throughout his career — will be screened at the Zócalo in Mexico City, the country’s main public square, on Nov. 8 as part of the promotion for Juan Gabriel: I Must, I Can, I Will. Thousands of attendees are expected, much like in Sept. 2024, when a projection of his 2013 show drew 70,000 people.
For Cuevas, who also directed the 2016 documentary Bellas de Noche, about legendary Mexican vedettes, the incredible aspect of Juanga’s docuseries is the timeline of his story in video, which allows the viewer to witness the journey from beginning to end. “To understand the public persona, the idol, you first have to know Alberto,” the filmmaker explains. “That story is in his songs. Alberto is the songwriter, but Juan Gabriel is the performer.”
Juan Gabriel, known internationally for classics like “Querida” and “Amor Eterno,” died on August 28, 2016, at his home in Santa Monica, California, of natural causes, in the middle of a concert tour. He was 66.
Inducted into the Billboard Hall of Fame in 1996, he built a legacy as a multifaceted artist over more than four decades, recording songs in genres as diverse as ranchera, ballad, pop, and bolero, and producing for other artists. Among his many achievements, he sold over 150 million records, wrote more than 1,800 songs, released 34 studio albums, was nominated for six Grammy Awards, won three posthumous Latin Grammys, and saw more than 20 of his hits reach the top 10 on the Billboard charts, including seven No. 1s on Hot Latin Songs. His hit “Yo No Sé Qué Me Pasó” inaugurated the first edition of that chart in 1986, at No. 1.
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Karol G made her debut on The Jennifer Hudson Show on Thursday (Oct. 30), where she talked about her latest career milestones including performing with Andrea Bocelli at the Vatican, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and soon becoming the first Latina to headline Coachella.
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“When [Bocelli] invited me, I said no, because I was super nervous,” Karol admitted to Hudson. “It’s the Vatican, we’re going to sing in La Plaza San Pedro, I’m going to perform for a lot of people and with Andrea Bocelli. I don’t know if I’m ready, and I was doing a lot of stuff at the same time, so maybe it wasn’t the moment to do this? So, I said no. My mom got crazy, [and said], ‘How is this possible? Karol, this is an opportunity that you have every 25 years, because the jubilee is every 25 years.’ So I was like, ‘OMG that’s true, so maybe the opportunity came to me because I’m ready. I’m actually ready.’”
Karol ultimately joined the iconic Italian tenor for a performance of “Vivo Por Ella” at the Grace for the World concert that took place in Vatican City in September.
Weeks later, the Colombian superstar was strutting the runway at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in October.
“I grew up watching the show and living the fantasy,” she said. “ I never thought I would be able to be there, with my shape, my curves, the music that I do in Spanish, but actually, I was there. The first thing I thought about when creating the show was the wings and then the performance. I was like, ‘Can I have the wings?’ because if I’m going to be, like, a Victoria Secret Angel, I need my wings. It was amazing … the moment of the show was the runway. I loved the runway. I was having so much fun.”
Next Spring, the “Provenza” singer will headline the 2026 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, Calif. She told Hudson: “I have a mantra in my life: You don’t lose the opportunity because you’re not ready. You get ready and you take that opportunity.”
Watch the interview clips below:
Billboard’s Live Music Summit will be held in Los Angeles on Nov. 3. For tickets and more information, visit the event’s website.
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Esaú Ortiz had already penned important songs for Luis R Conriquez (“De Fresa y Coco”) and Grupo Firme (“Tronando Ligas” with Junior H) when he had a thought: “If I’ve written hits for other artists, how could I not write one for myself?” Then, it happened. The 27-year-old artist from Monterrey, Nuevo León released his biggest hit to date, titled “Triple Lavada” — which also includes a remix featuring Conriquez, Alemán, Óscar Maydon and Victor Mendivil.
The remix — released in May, two months after the original one — earned Ortiz his first top 10 on any Billboard chart when the song peaked at No. 9 on the Hot Latin Songs chart. It also peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart and at No. 17 on the Billboard Global 200 chart. The plan was to only release the remix version, not two separate ones. But, he had to pivot quickly when, earlier this year, a part of the song was leaked on TikTok and gained momentum.
“It took time to get everyone on board, so I had to release it on my own, and besides, it had been leaked, so I had to release it right away,” Ortiz says over Zoom. “The leaked version was already at the top of the [TikTok] charts, so I had to request for it to get taken down and release my own version. I couldn’t wait for the remix.”
Still, the spunky retrobélico stands as Ortiz’s biggest milestone yet since launching his career over 10 years ago, mainly as a songwriter, and the song has now cemented his status as a Latin artist on the rise in a crowded field of new música mexicana acts.
Ortiz may have had his major breakthrough as a songwriter, but his dream was always to be a performing artist. He began performing in Kindergarten singing Pedro Fernández songs and later, in his teens, transitioned into rap. He was motivated by his mom, who also sings and performs at parties doing tributes to stars like Gloria Trevi.
“Then I started singing reggaetón, banda, grupero, corridos tumbados, I think I performed in every genre,” Ortiz says. He joined a few local bands and also started writing his own songs because, “the music I was listening to didn’t say what I experienced exactly, so I had to write it myself.” He began uploading videos of him performing his songs on Facebook and eventually promoters and even local bands began reaching out to him.
“I wanted to be an artist, but it’s really difficult, it takes time,” Oritz says. “I thought, I’m going to sneak in this way and make a name for myself as a composer, then I’ll make money for everyone and then, when I decide to be an artist, I’ll already have superstar friends I’ve written for that I can collaborate with. When you start as a songwriter, you’re already on the other side and there are people who like what you do and how you write. You’ve already proven yourself.”
This year, “Triple Lavada” marked the launch of his career as an artist, and earned him a distribution and marketing deal with Sony Music Latin. His first big deal in the industry after experiencing a few heartbreaks early on in his career when other companies “stole” from him, he explains. “I was just doing deals how I thought I should but no one was guiding me, I was on my own.” Today, he’s releasing music under his own self-titled label.
“‘Triple Lavada’ was that change from composer to artist, that watershed moment, where there is a before and after,” Ortiz says. It also served as an introduction to the subgenre he pioneered, retrobélico — which came to him when he was listening disco music at a party. It was also the perfect set up for his latest album Discontrol, released Oct. 10. The album cover, inspired by Michael Jackson’s Thriller, is enough indication that Ortiz is offering something different, a more nuanced approach to regional Mexican music.
As a self-declared fan of The Weeknd, Sabrina Carpenter and Post Malone, his music is a fusion of disco, rap, cumbia, pop and ballads powered by Mexican music instruments. “I wanted people to realize that I can do many genres,” he says. “I don’t want to limit myself to just one genre, that’s why I made the album super varied. I consider myself regional, but as a variation, as a branch of regional music.”
Below, learn more about this month’s Billboard Latin Artist on the Rise:
Name: Esaú Ortiz Anzuara
Age: 27
Recommended Song: “Triple Lavada” or “Discontrol”
Biggest Accomplishment:
“Launching my career as an artist and pioneering retrobélico.”
What’s Next:
“I’m working on my next album, which will drop next year. Discontrol didn’t really have collaborations because I wanted to showcase my essence what I represent as a retrobélico artist. But I have collaborations coming up with Lit Killah, Xavi and Alemán, and I want to save them for the next album.”
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Every month, Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors spotlight a group of rising artists whose music we love. Think “diamantes en bruto,” or “diamonds in the rough.” These are newcomers who have yet to impact the mainstream — but whose music excites us, and who we believe our readers should make a point to discover.
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Our latest edition of On the Radar Latin includes a wave of emerging artists that we came across at the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami, which took place Oct. 20-24 at The Fillmore Miami Beach. See our recommendations this month below:
Name: ATINA
Country: Peru
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: ATINA is a Peruvian urban pop singer-songwriter who delivers honest lyrics, a powerful, brilliant voice and a unique sound. Trained at the New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music (New York) and Berklee College of Music (Boston), she began writing at age 14 as a form of personal therapy, and has since set out to “heal hearts through music,” according to a statement. This year, at 22, she released her debut album Curita Pa’l Cora, with standout singles such as “Qué Tengo Que Hacer,” “Respiro” and “Boca.” In August, she participated in the All Music Fest Perú, sharing the bill with international artists such as Beéle and Luar La L. — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS
Song For Your Playlist: “Respiro”
Name: Belén Sánchez
Country: Ecuador
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Born in Ecuador and residing in New York, Belén is ready to make strong waves in the music industry with her debut single “Lejos de Casa,” released earlier this year. The song starts off as a vibrant bolero, before navigating to the heartfelt rap bars by Vavier Jerainto and ultimately transitioning into a saucy salsa tune backed by La Banda Brava. Beyond its melting pot of rhythms, “Lejos de Casa” is a reflection of Sánchez’s personal experience as an immigrant in The United States.
“I’ve had this song saved since 2018,” she expressed in an Instagram post. “I wanted this song to sound like and represent my city Guayaquil […] It doesn’t just sound like Guajira, there are a lot of genres in the Ecuadorian music scene to explore, among them Guayaco Rap.” In addition to embarking on her own music career path, Sánchez is a Berklee College of Music alum and is manager of emerging Dominican powerhouse La Cassandra. — JESSICA ROIZ
Song for Your Playlist: “Lejos de Casa” (feat. La Banda Brava)
Name: Ephrem J
Country: Curaçao
Why They Should Be On Your Radar: Ephrem J is an independent artist with a solid track record, but he wasn’t on our radar until we discovered him this year at Billboard Latin Music Week. A charismatic bachata and merengue singer, he has been releasing music since 2009, when he debuted with the single “Amor en la Luna.” His studio albums include Bailando (2014), El Mejor Momento (2017), and this year’s Fiesta Tropical, Vol. 1.0. With songs like “No Hay Imposibles,” “Como una Oración,” and “Una Copa,” he has built a growing fanbase on social media, where he has thousands of followers. His latest single, “KARMA,” already has over 200,000 views on YouTube, and he is preparing to release the music video for “Loco Por Ti” next week. — S.R.A.
Song For Your Playlist: “KARMA”
Name: Francia
Country: Venezuela
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: The first time you meet Francia, you will undoubtedly be captivated by his lovely aura and glow that includes warm hugs and uplifting words. I first came across his one-of-a-kind personality when we met for the first time at the 2023 Latin Grammys in Sevilla; however, the first time I heard him sing was this year at the release of his debut album, Infinita—a beautifully curated 11-track album that showcases his magic and unique perspective in life. In addition to forging his music career, the Venezuelan singer-songwriter—who left his career on Wall Street to pursue his dreams—is a lawyer, actor, and TV reporter. In July, he presented his new album with a full live band at the Black Room Sessions in Miami surrounded by family and friends. — INGRID FAJARDO
Song for Your Playlist: “Creatura Divina”
Name: Ina Peralta
Country: Venezuela
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Ina Peralta’s music career kicked off almost 10 years ago with her debut single “Tu Lo Que Quieras” released in 2017. After a nearly five-year hiatus due to a undergoing a severe health condition, the Venezuelan singer-songwriter returned with her 2022 EP Aprendi a Amarme. Since, Peralta has penned her personal life stories into her music, singing about self love, resilience, empowerment, and strength. Her uplifting music is backed by salsa, pop, cumbia, and urban rhythms, best reflected in her debut studio album INA Siendo INA, out earlier this year. — J.R.
Song for Your Playlist: “Que Me Digan Loca”
Name: J Salez
Country: Mexico
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: While walking around the lobby at The Fillmore Miami Beach, I was approached by two gentlemen: J Salez (real name: Juan Chavez) and his manager, Dereck Vinci. Immediately, I was drawn to Salez’s musical concept: a Mexican singer creating bachata music. With a five-year music career, Salez is a first-generation Mexican-American artist, who despite being raised in Southern California by mariachi singers from Jalisco, is chasing his musical path in the Tropical music realm. Tall, dark and handsome, accompanied by dulcet, romantic vocals, Salez released his debut studio album California Love in 2024, and is currently making the rounds with his single “Ya” (2025). — J.R.
Song for Your Playlist: “Duele”
Name: JimmyBoy
Country: Puerto Rico
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: JimmyBoy has a special charm; from the first second you hear him, he makes you want to move. Sonically, his style is a slow, rhythmic reggaeton, pleasing to the ear, and that’s precisely what stands out, especially when most urban artists these days are presenting harsher sounds. Lyrically, he’s romantic while remaining modern. At just 19 years old, the Puerto Rican singer showcases his versatility by fusing soul, R&B, pop and Afrobeats in most of his tracks, which has allowed him to enter diverse markets such as Panama, Colombia, Chile, Mexico and even Spain. JimmyBoy will release “Playa Escondida” on November 26th, an energetic house track with which he will continue to demonstrate his ability to interpret different rhythms. — TERE AGUILERA
Song for Your Playlist: “Explícame”
Name: Jocsan Duran
Country: Dominican Republic
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Jocsan Duran may have been born in the Dominican Republic and reared in Orlando, but his music is rooted in regional Mexican tradition, specifically the corridos tumbados movement that continues to thrive. It’s not every day you see a Dominican artist making waves in a genre historically associated with Mexico, but Duran is breaking barriers by infusing Dominican flavor into music typically known for its norteño tones. It was at Billboard Latin Music Week that Duran caught our attention, during the Future of Regional Mexican Music panel — featuring Xavi, Oscar Maydon, Codiciado, and more — where he stood up from the audience to ask a question and directed our focus to his music.
His 7-track debut EP, Humilde, released in May, showcases his boundary-pushing style. On tracks like “El Emblema,” he blends Mexican slang with Dominican expressions and even throws in English words, showcasing his bicultural identity. The artist also reveals his poetic side in songs like “Conversación Con la Luna,” where he reflects on the challenges of his journey and the determination it took to make it here. Drawing inspiration from artists like Natanael Cano, Fuerza Regida, and Juan Gabriel (whom he admires deeply for his showmanship), Duran is offering a fresh voice and perspective to a genre in continued evolution. — ISABELA RAYGOZA
Song for Your Playlist: “Humilde”
Name: Karol Wilson
Country: Panama
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: In 2018, Karol Wilson introduced her debut single “Sin Más Rodeos,” a feel-good reggae track, before ultimately transitioning to an edgier sound that includes reggaeton, Latin Afrobeats, and even dembow. Born and raised in Panama, the singer-songwriter “writes what she feels and transforms her experience into music,” according to her artist profile on Spotify. Wilson has collaborated with up-and-coming artists such as Any Victoria and Jimmy Boy — the latter was also at the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Week, and both are managed by Latin Grammy-winning producer Pedro Sanjur. Currently, Wilson is promoting her sultry tune “Ya No Más,” which perfectly showcases her sensual and smooth vocals. — J.R.
Song for Your Playlist: “Ya No Más”
Name: Katteyes
Country: Chile
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: This young reggaetón singer is one of Chile’s biggest digital stars and one of the most successful examples of artists who emerged from social media as content creators and made the leap to major Latin stages. Fernanda Villalobos (her real name) began her career as a teenager under the name “Iamferv.” Her unique blend of music, fashion, and style has earned her 45.7 million followers on TikTok, 13.3 million on Instagram, 9.7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and nearly 56 million views on each of her YouTube videos, at time of publishing. She is undoubtedly one of the most promising urban music artists from South America, possessing a commanding stage presence at just 21 years old.
This was evident during her performance at the “Opening Night of Billboard Latin Music Week” showcase presented by Boombastic in Miami on October 20th, where she shone as a bold performer, with her fusion of Latin pop, reggaetón and emotional lyrics. Some of her most popular collaborations include songs with La Joaqui, Luck Ra, Kidd Voodoo and Jere Klein. She also makes her outfits a valuable complement to her stage persona, with avant-garde clothing and makeup, weaving together styles ranging from femme fatale to virgins in bejeweled gowns. You can soon see her at Teletón Chile 2025, Coca-Cola Flow Fest in Mexico City on November 22nd, and Lollapalooza Chile 2026. — NATALIA CANO
Song for Your Playlist: “Ponte Lokita” (feat. Kidd Voodoo)
Name: Machaka
Country: Ecuador
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Combining 1980s cumbia and salsa with urban and Andean sounds, lyrics that highlight Ecuadorian slang and identity, and a recognizable deep voice, Machaka stands out for his freshness and authenticity. His approach, which he describes on his Instagram account as “modern cevichería music,” can be heard in songs like “Milagro,” “Crucita,” and “Las +593,” the latter dedicated to the women of his country. Machaka is beginning to make his way internationally, with a tour that took him this year to several cities in the U.S. and Spain and an upcoming performance at the Colombian festival Estéreo Picnic 2026. On Nov. 6th, he will release a new EP, Sabrosura Ecuatoriana, which you can listen to here. — S.R.A.
Song for Your Playlist: “Las +593”
Name: MADIE
Country: Guatemala
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Madie holds degrees in communication and fashion design and has studied aviation. But her first passion is music, taking singing and dancing lessons from the age of 9 in her home country and later in London. In 2024, she debuted with the single “Lights Out,” and this year she released her first EP, Sin Reglas, a selection of five songs that showcase her charisma and versatility, with a fusion of pop, urban, merengue, Afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall rhythms. The set earned her three nominations for the Estela Awards in Guatemala, where this month she gave her first concert as part of the Vibes Party event. Madie is currently creating new music with Honduran producer Jorge Ulloa, best known for his work with Farruko’s label, Carbon Fiber Music. — S.R.A.
Song for Your Playlist: “Llamada en Espera”
Name: RIZA
Country: United States
Why They Should be on your Radar: Thanks to Billboard Latin Music Week’s “Making the Hit, Live!” discussion — this year featuring Pablo Alborán and Julio Reyes Copello — we discovered the wonderful RIZA. The Filipino-Cuban artist, from Hollywood, Florida, captivated the audience with her enchanting harmonies and smooth vocals when she joined Alborán and the hitmaker to create a song in real life. The tune they created during the panel, which had a dreamy, Middle Eastern rhythm and heartfelt lyrics about missing and longing for someone, further showcased RIZA’s superstar power, with sultry, melodious vocals à la Sade, and an effortless mix of R&B, jazz, folk, and pop elements. RIZA, who sings in both English and Spanish, released her six-track EP Miracle in 2023, and has collaborated with the Mexican indie act Humbe. — J.R.
Song For Your Playlist: “la sirena”
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Billboard turned its attention to the biggest titans in the Latin music space during our Latin Power Players 2025 event, hosted by Johnnie Walker, and the support throughout the celebration was strong.
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On Monday, October 20, some of this year’s most influential names in the business gathered at Casadonna Miami for specialty cocktails, mingling, and tributes to this year’s honorees as part of Billboard Latin Music Week. After taking photos on the carpet, attendees were treated to mini Carajillos made with Johnnie Walker Black Label as they entered the celebration. With the Miami waterfront as its backdrop, music filled the venue as industry leaders networked, nibbled on appetizers, and posed for photos in front of a flower wall provided by Johnnie Walker. Additional Johnnie Walker cocktails included a Bad Johnnie served in a branded coconut, as well as full glasses of Carajillo.
Hannah Karp, Editorial Director, and Leila Cobo, Chief Content Officer of Latin/Español, kicked off the honors of the night, sharing a few brief words with the crowd. Double P Records co-founders Peso Pluma and George Prajin took home the Top Regional Mexican Albums Label of the Year award, while the Regional Mexican Airplay Label of the Year was awarded to Universal Music Latin Entertainment, presented by Ela Taubert to Angel Kaminsky and Ana Martínez. Meanwhile, the Top Latin Rhythm Albums Label of the Year and Hot Latin Songs Label of the Year awards went to Rimas.
Later in the evening, all eyes were on Nir Seroussi, head of Interscope Capitol Miami, who received the Latin Power Players Executive of the Year award. And it was none other than J Balvin, Xavii, and John Janick, CEO of Interscope, who took to the stage to show him love ahead of his acceptance speech.
Scroll below to relive all the highlights from the evening, including the custom cocktails, honoree speeches, and more!
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Telemundo’s live broadcast of the Billboard Latin Music Awards 2025 on Thursday (Oct. 23) ranked as the No. 1 entertainment show in prime time, regardless of language, among adults 18-49, according to Nielsen.
The report, released Oct. 28, further adds that with a total of 1.7 million total viewers, the three-hour ceremony was also the No. 1 awards show on Spanish-language television year-to-date among adults 18-49, and the highest rated Billboard Latin Music Awards among total viewers since 2019.
This year’s star-studded show included performances by Daddy Yankee, Grupo Frontera, Emilia, Carlos Vives, Xavi, Wisin, Arthur Hanlon, Netón Vega and Óscar Maydon, to name a few. Special awards were also handed out to Bad Bunny — who was honored with the Top Latin Artist of the 21st Century Award — Elvis Crespo entered the Billboard Hall of Fame, Laura Pausini was recognized with the Icon Award and Peso Pluma received the first-ever Billboard Vanguard Award.
Locally, the awards show ranked No. 1 regardless of language in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Phoenix, Orlando and Philadelphia. Furthermore, the event achieved 159.5 million digital and social video views, up +50% from the 2024 edition and 12.5 million social actions, up +229% year over year across Telemundo.com, the Telemundo App, Peacock, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.
Hosted by Elizabeth Gutiérrez, Goyo and Javier Poza, the big winners of the night were Bad Bunny, Karol G and Fuerza Regida. Bunny took home 11 awards. Karol G followed closely with six awards, Fuerza Regida collected five, while Peso Pluma, Netón Vega and Óscar Maydon were multiple award winners.
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Powerhouse regional Mexican label Rancho Humilde is locked in a bitter legal dispute with one of its fastest rising acts, the California-based band Fuerza Regida.
Rancho Humilde filed a lawsuit in September accusing the band of breaching its record deal by unilaterally doing features for other artists and inking live performance contracts with Apple Music and Live Nation. Fuerza Regida countersued a month later, alleging the indie label withheld millions of dollars in royalties and tried to “sabotage” its success — including by leaving it off Latin Grammy Awards submissions.
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The dueling legal claims, moved from a California state courthouse to federal court on Oct. 20, reveal a stunning breakdown in the relationship between Fuerza Regida and its longtime label home. The fight comes just as Fuerza Regida’s star is on the rise; the band made history in May when 111XPANTIA debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, making it the highest-charting Spanish-language album ever by a duo or group.
Fuerza Regida, a quintet of regional Mexican hitmakers from San Bernardino, signed with Jimmy Humilde’s label in 2018. The band now puts out music via a joint venture between Rancho Humilde and its own Street Mob Records, with distribution by Sony Music Latin.
Rancho Humilde’s lawsuit is focused on exclusivity language in the label’s original record deal with Fuerza Regida, which allegedly entitled the label to a seat at the table and a cut of proceeds for all recording and touring contracts. According to Rancho Humilde, Fuerza Regida violated this deal by performing unauthorized features for other artists and not sharing the royalties.
The lawsuit lists 27 offending songs, including “Qué Onda,” Fuerza Regida’s Billboard Hot 100 entry from 2023 with Calle 24 and Chino Pacas, and “Modo Capone,” the band’s 2024 collaboration with Pacas and Drake that hit No. 11 on Billboard‘s Hot Latin Songs chart.
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Rancho Humilde says Fuerza Regida also disregarded exclusivity by contracting directly with Apple Music this past summer for a live concert taping in Mexico City, as well as with Live Nation for U.S. tours in 2023 and 2024.
“[Rancho Humilde] has suffered damages, including, but not limited to, lost royalties, advances, fees, market-share and other compensation that should have been directed to Sony and accounted to [Rancho Humilde], lost shares of touring revenues [and] lost income from unauthorized deals such as the Apple agreement,” says the lawsuit. “The exact amount of damages is subject to proof at trial but exceeds $15 million.”
Fuerza Regida, however, tells a very different story in its countersuit. The band claims Rancho Humilde is actually the one who has breached their record deal by failing to pay millions of dollars in royalties and stonewalling audit requests.
The countersuit also says Rancho Humilde has engaged in “systematic financial malfeasance” by refusing to revert master recordings back to the band as required by the record deal, as well as by using “clandestine arrangements” with Live Nation to siphon off touring profits.
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“In addition to its fraudulent schemes and systematic contract breaches, Rancho and its principal Jimmy Humilde escalated to a malicious campaign of active sabotage designed to destroy [Fuerza Regida’s] professional relationships and career opportunities within the entertainment industry,” reads the countersuit.
Fuerza Regida says that as part of this campaign of “sabotage,” Rancho Humilde requested that Sony remove the band from Latin Grammy Awards submissions in 2024, even though they had been a top-selling act that year.
Additionally, the countersuit claims Jimmy Humilde sent “threatening and intimidating text messages” to Apple’s head of Latin music in an attempt to “derail” Fuerza Regida’s live concert taping. Overall, Fuerza Regida is seeking at least $25 million in damages from the label.
In a statement to Billboard on Monday (Oct. 27), the band’s attorney Kenneth D. Freundlich says, “Rancho Humilde and Jimmy Humilde have for years engaged in brazen self-dealing, enriching itself at the expense of our client Fuerza Regida.”
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“Rancho’s bad faith state court lawsuit against Fuerza was the last straw,” adds Freundlich. “After our removal, the disputes will air in federal court where Rancho must now respond to our detailed claims of wrongdoing.”
Reps for Rancho Humilde did not return a request for comment.
The Fuerza Regida fight is not Rancho Humilde’s only ongoing legal battle with top talent. Regional Mexican artist Codiciado, who was signed to Rancho Humilde as part of the ensemble Grupo Codiciado but has since parted ways and gone solo, sued the label in June, alleging it infringed his intellectual property by getting the rest of the band back together with a new act called Los Codicia2. Rancho Humilde has not yet responded to Codiciado’s claims.
From Peso Pluma & Kenia Os on the red carpet to Rauw Alejandro in his Cosa Nuestra era, check out these simple Halloween costume ideas.
10/27/2025
