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

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Lenny Tavárez, Brillar (Kristoman/Warner Music Latina)

Lenny Tavárez has unleashed his sophomore studio album, Brillar, three years after his debut set, Krack. With 16 tracks, Tavárez reeled in longtime collaborators Wisin, Feid, Prince Royce, Chencho Corleone, Ryan Castro, and Piso 21, to name a few. In true Tavárez fashion, and for the most part, the production delivers hard-hitting perreos and saucy reggaetóns, such as “Empelotica,” “Ojos Chinos” and “Mentí.”

Brillar also showcases the Puerto Rican artist’s ability to navigate other genres outside of the Latin urban space. In “Tu Feo,” he teamed up with Prince Royce for a romantic bachata; “Pushi Pashi” and “Tu Piel” are back-to-back electronic tunes; and the Sergio George-assisted “El Yate” is a heartfelt salsa song.

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“I feel like I’m at a balanced moment,” Tavárez said in a press statement. “Doing what I want, writing what I want, without following anyone or anything. Trusting that every day I’m striving to be the best version of myself.”  — JESSICA ROIZ

L-Gante, Celda 4 (Warner Music Latina)

As a reflection of his time in prison last year, Argentinian rapper Elian Ángel Valenzuela, artistically known as L-Gante, presents his ultra-personal and emotionally charged debut album Celda 4—the cell where he wrote and recorded music during the 100 days he was locked up. In 2023, Valenzuela was accused of making threats with a weapon and kidnapping a neighbor of his family after a fight at a nightclub, as reported by El País. Celda 4 is a captivating fusion of hip-hop, cumbia, reggaeton and trap, with old-school musical influences.

This 13-track solo album is a fascinating immersion into the emerging ‘RKT’ genre, a local movement that seeks to merge cumbia with reggaetón. His lyrics vividly describe Argentine culture and life in marginalized neighborhoods: “For some, it’s nothing, but for others, it is a lot; we change the game, create a musical movement from the depths of the neighborhoods,” he reflects on the intro track “Sin 0.” The album’s focus track, “MVP,” showcases his exploration of hip-hop, a unique blend that L-Gante has coined as HHS or Hip Hop Sudaka, and sets the tone for the rest of the set. — INGRID FAJARDO

Luck Ra, Nicki Nicole, “Doctor” (Sony Music Latin)

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In a first collaborative effort, Argentine rapper Nicki Nicole and her fellow compatriot Luck Ra drop “Doctor.” Co-produced by Ramky and Tatool, the infectious track laces cumbia villera with norteño elements, backed by heavy percussion and a weeping accordion. In “Doctor,” Nicki and Luck reflect on a relationship that ended and has no chance of returning — but they still miss each other. “I don’t think of anyone who’s not you/ And there’s no doctor who can heal this pain,” goes the short-and-sweet chorus. The music video, filmed in the colonial streets of Buenos Aires, features the two artists, and an adorable old couple, flaunting their best cumbia-dancing skills. — J.R.

Elsa y Elmar, “Drogada de Emociones” (Sony Music México/Elmar Presenta)

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In her latest single “Drogada de Emociones,” Colombian artist Elsa y Elmar explores the universe of emotions that love awakens. The song, included in her new album PALACIO, combines the delicacy of her lyrics with a vocal interpretation that moves between vulnerability and charm. In the lyrics, Elsa offers us an intimate window into her emotional world, laying bare the euphoria and confusion of falling in love. “I’m drugged with emotions / With a laugh that I don’t know why / My heels bend / It’s that I look at you, and it can’t be me,” she sings, while the minimalist production allows her voice to shine in every note. — LUISA CALLE

Ambik, Origen (Grand Move Records/Warner Music Argentina)

Just four months after being featured in Billboard’s On the Radar Latin, Ambik releases a six-track EP in which she skillfully fuses poignant lyrics with experimental sounds. At only 16, the Argentine singer-songwriter — the younger sister of star Tiago PZK — at times can remind of a young Billie Eilish in songs like the piano led “A Tu Espera” and “Cuidar de los Dos,” which offer vulnerable lyrics and an evocative sound with haunting vocals.

On the focus track “Tenerte Otra Vez,” she sings over melancholic guitar melodies and a progressive bass line about a past relationship marred by her own insecurities. With lyrics that show a maturity beyond her years, she addresses themes like fear, destruction and loneliness in the more electronic “Caos,” before closing with the melancholic pop song “Gestos de Amor.” Origen is a solid debut EP in which Ambik demonstrates a clear vision of who she is as an artist.— SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS

Andrea Bocelli feat. Karol G, “Vivo Por Ella” (Decca Records/Sugar Music)

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Andrea Bocelli and Karol G team up to present a new duet titled “Vivo Por Ella,” reimagining one of his most celebrated songs, “Vivo Per Lei” (“I Live for Her”), originally featuring Spanish singer Marta Sánchez. In this revamped version, the classic piano is replaced with a mix of bowed (arco) and plucked (pizzicato) violin notes, lending a fresh pace that is slightly quicker than its ’90s predecessor.

This dynamic version expertly merges Bocelli’s powerful tenor with the vivid vocals of Colombian superstar Karol G, creating a compelling rendition that’s both fresh and nostalgic. Produced by David Foster and Ellis, this single is a highlight of Bocelli’s forthcoming album, Duets, due out Oct. 25. The album marks his 30th anniversary in music. — ISABELA RAYGOZA

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

Six months after earning its first No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart, Daughtry now has its second, as “Pieces” lifts to the top of the Sept. 7-dated tally. Explore Explore See latest videos, charts and news See latest videos, charts and news “Pieces” reigns following the one-week rule of “Artificial” in February. The […]

Cage the Elephant’s “Rainbow” leaps three spots to No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult Alternative Airplay chart dated Sept. 7. The six-piece adds its seventh leader and second in a row, after “Neon Pill” ruled for four weeks beginning in March. The group enters a four-way tie for the eighth-most No. 1s in the Adult Alternative […]

Lady Gaga is sharing the love for the next generation of pop girls. The “Bad Romance” superstar commented on a TikTok from user @holdmygaga, in which a young Sabrina Carpenter is seen performing a cover of Gaga’s “Speechless,” off her 2009 album, The Fame Monster. In the clip, Carpenter, who looks about 11 or 12, […]

Ice Spice has seen plenty of people speaking on her body throughout her career, and now, she’s controlling the narrative and taking back the power of her figure.
The Bronx native posted a workout video on Thursday (Aug. 29) showing off components of her routine while on the road for tour. “We beatin them allegations bae,” she wrote, brushing off the Ozempic claims that were thrown her way earlier this year.

She received a ton of love in her comment ssection from peers including Chloe Bailey, Saweetie, Bktherula and more. “Body on point,” Chloe wrote.

Fans chimed in, hyping up Ice as well. “Mic drop ozempic doesn’t make you toned. Tell em ice,” one person said. Another added, “Yes baby show them wasssssswhat!”

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Ice Spice had enough of everyone talking about her weight and decided to clap back at those with loose lips and defend her work ethic during an X Spaces Aug. 19.

“I actually came on here to talk about that real quick. I wish y’all never learned the word Ozempic,” she said. “That’s one thing I wish. Oh my God! Like, what even is Ozempic? What the f–k is that? Genuinely, what is that?”

Ice continued: “You lazy-a– b—–s never heard of a gym? It’s called the gym, it’s called eating healthy, it’s called being on tour. Like, what the hell? Maybe if I was sitting at home all f–king day, it’d be easier to stay big.”

The 24-year-old is wrapping up her Y2K! World Tour in Miami with a final show at The Fillmore Miami Beach on Saturday (Aug. 31), and then she’s slated to make an appearance on Sunday (Sept. 1) at Club LIV.

Ice Spice released her anticipated Y2K! debut album in July with features from Gunna, Travis Scott and Central Cee. The LP reached No. 18 on the Billboard 200. 

Watch Ice Spice’s workout video below:

Earlier this month, we here at Billboard began our staff countdown of the 25 Greatest Pop Stars of the 21st Century — the artists who, by our estimation, have best exemplified and influenced pop stardom over the course of the past 25 years. We’ve been rolling out two of them a week, and will continue […]

A$AP Rocky has delivered the previously leaked “Tailor Swif” video after expressing concern about giving the track and visual an official release. The song and accompanying Vania Heymann and Gal Muggia-directed video arrived on Friday (Aug. 30) as a gift to the Mob frontman’s faithful fans, but don’t expect it to land on his upcoming Don’t Be Dumb album later this year.
Rocky unleashed another memorable visual that will be part of his decorated videography. Each scene from the jarring clip shot in Kyiv, Ukraine, back in December 2021 is as bizarre as the next. Whether it’s the inclusion of a bunny rabbit bathing with a glass of wine in a public bathroom sink to Rocky dodging a car, a dog in a jacket and tie talking on a cellphone in a diner, or a man’s hair serving as a bird’s nest (complete with hatching eggs), the Harlem native’s dedication to his craft doesn’t disappoint.

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Swifties’ eyeballs were collectively drawn to the track’s title, which is seemingly inspired by the pop titan of the same name. Rocky even gives Taylor Swift a shout-out on the tune’s chorus. “I’m too swift, don’t tell Taylor ’bout this s–t (Swift, yeah)/ I’m too swift, now don’t tell Taylor ’bout this s–t,” he raps.

However, it doesn’t appear all of the Swifties are thrilled with Rocky throwing T-Swift’s name into the mix. “If i had a dollar for every man that used taylor’s name for clout id be as rich as her,” one tweeted.

But Rocky’s fans flocked to Flacko’s defense. “Love taylor swift, but asap rocky does not need her to stay relevant,” one person replied on X.

A$AP was initially hesitant to release the track, which he performed at Rolling Loud Portugal in 2022 before it leaked days later, but decided to go ahead with it earlier this week. “SINCE U DUMMIES LEAKED IT ALREADY,” he tweeted.

Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb album was slated to land on Aug. 30, but he revealed to Billboard that it’s been pushed to the fall.

“Tailor Swif” follows Rocky’s August single “Highjack,” which debuted at No. 89 on the Billboard Hot 100. Watch the video for “Tailor Swif” below.

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Who was that masked man? That’s what a lot of players were wondering on Thursday (August 29) before the identity of the mysterious Shadow Duelist Nocturne was unveiled during the Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel livestream.

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As it turns out, it was none other than Zayn Malik, 31, a lifelong fan of the free digital card game who didn’t play in the tournament, but whose reveal was teased earlier this month as a “celebrity in disguise,” along with previous hints that he mystery man was “cloaked in shadow and draped in melody” and was part of a “celebrated brotherhood of troubadours.” When the big moment came, Malik, wearing black leather gloves and a black suit, slowly pulled off the character’s gold and black voice changing helmet with glowing green eyes as the event’s hosts lost their minds.

Before the reveal, the hosts shared a the obvious penultimate clue, which read, “From dusk till dawn, Nocturne fills the air with Stardust and PILLOWTALK,” a triple-down on Zayn solo single hints.

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The winner of Thursday’s tournament not only earned bragging rights, but also a signed copy of the mask as part of their prize package. After a player called Fictinium emerged victorious, Malik removed his mask and talked about his love of the franchise that includes games, anime and playing cards.

“Yeah, I’m a big, big Yu-Gi-Oh! fan. I’ve been into Yu-Gi-Oh! for a long time, since I was a small kid, so it’s an honor to be here, to do this, and it was very exciting,” said Malik, who offered up game-play commentary on the final four alongside the night’s hosts, Steven Kangas and Billy Brake. “I’ve been looking forward to it for a few weeks.”

Zayn said he was excited to wear the cool mask because he loves dressing in costume, but also was way into watching everyone compete as he signed the inside of the mask for Fictinium. The singer also ran down his favorite battles, shared his packed childhood Yu-Gi-Oh! binder and revealed his favorite card while talking about his Yu-Gi origin story, which involved first playing the game when he was “really young” on his Gameboy Advance SP.

“What is my favorite card? Obviously, I have the Shooting Star Dragon — and, obviously, it’s one of my most powerful cards, that’s why I like it so much,” Zayn said, displaying his leather binder — with the game’s name hand-scrawled across the front in Sharpie — and some of his most treasured cards. “I have the Shooting Quasar Dragon, too.” And, for the record, if he was to record a theme song for the series, it would be something “high energy” with an “early 2000s rock” vibe.

The singer, who joked about calling his next album, Yami Yugi, displayed a deep knowledge of the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe, while also taking a moment to tease upcoming music. Saying he was “honored to be here,” Zayn also told viewers that he has “some interesting stuff coming out with my music pretty soon. Some pretty big announcements coming up, so if you’re interested in my music at all, I’ve got some cool news coming pretty soon.”

Zayn signed a new recording contract with Mercury Records last summer and released his fourth solo album, Room Under the Stairs, in May.

Watch Zayn’s reveal below.

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One of the gospel genre’s most iconic voices is back — and she’s bringing along her first album in 13 years. On Friday (Aug. 39), four-time Grammy-winning gospel music icon Yolanda Adams unleashed “Church Doors,” her first solo single in a decade.
Across a soundscape punctuated by spirited handclaps and crisp choir harmonies, Adams’ robust voice soars with a perfect mixture of reverence and joy. “When you let me make it to the church doors, I’ll tell them what you’ve done for me,” she promises in the poignant hook.

The new single hit DSPs alongside a remix featuring Terry Hunter, Sir The Baptist and Donald Lawrence & Co., as well as an extended remix featuring Grammy-winner J. Ivy in addition to all of the aforementioned artists.

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“I am so excited about the release of the single ‘Church Doors’ because we have been working on it with some amazing people including Donald Lawrence, Sir The Baptist and Terry Lewis,” Adams tells Billboard. “A group of fantastic people wrote an amazing song that voices the sentiments of testimony. The world has been through so much so to have some good news about what God has done is what we need right now. That’s the theme of church doors.”

Power Book II: Ghost and The New Edition Story actor Woody McClain leads the track’s artful music video, which features direction and choreography from Fatima Robinson, who recently worked on 2023’s Color Purple movie musical and Beyoncé‘s blockbuster Renaissance World Tour.

“Church Doors” is the lead single to Sunny Days, Adams’ new 15-track LP, which is currently slated for a Sept. 13 release. To support the album — her first full-length release with Epic Records — Adams is set to launch a North American arena tour that kicks off on Sept. 6 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, and concludes on Nov. 3 at Kia Forum in Inglewood, Calif. Billed the Reunion Tour, the trek will also visit major cities such as Boston, Brooklyn and Atlanta.

Adams has landed six top 10 titles on Top Christian Albums, including 1999’s chart-busting Mountain High… Valley Low, which spent 16 weeks atop the ranking and charted for 100 weeks. Her sole Billboard Hot 100 charting song, 2000’s “Open My Heart” (No. 57), is also one of the biggest crossover gospel tracks of the 21st century, appearing on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (No. 10), Dance Club Songs (No. 29), Adult R&B Airplay (No. 1, 16 weeks) and the all-genre Radio Songs chart (No. 53).

Watch the video for the “Church Doors” remix below:

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MTS is joining forces with BTS once again — yes, for real. After teasing on social media that she was teaming up with another artist to release a new collaboration, Megan Thee Stallion has confirmed that she’s working with the world’s biggest K-pop stars: Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook.
The “Hiss” rapper first started hinting at a new duet on X Thursday (Aug. 29), when she simply tweeted a pointed string of emojis: “🐎X💜 👀”

The cryptic post got lots of fans fired up, with some immediately guessing that the purple heart signified BTS’ involvement. “HELLO?? PURPLE HEART?? BTS???” one person commented at the time, while another excited user wrote, “BTS COLLAB ?? NO ONE MOVE.”

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The following day, BTS’ account confirmed the news: “🐎X🦔(🐨),” the band wrote, retweeting Meg’s original post. “Coming Soon! 💜👀”

The news comes about two months after the “WAP” artist released her third studio album, Megan, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. BTS’ full-band activities have been on pause as the members fulfill their mandatory military obligations in South Korea, with some of the boys dropping solo projects in the meantime.

The new collab won’t be the first time MTS and BTS have worked together. In 2021, Meg jumped on the remix to the boy band’s Billboard Hot 100-topping single “Butter,” which they all performed together at BTS’ concert in Los Angeles that November.

“I love BTS, and I was telling my manager, ‘I really want to do a song with BTS, I don’t know what I can do or what we’re going to do,’” she recalled to Entertainment Tonight the following February. “Around that the same time, they wound up reaching out to me and asking me to do the ‘Butter’ remix. So, I was like, ‘Oh my God.’”

See Megan and BTS’ tweets below.