Latin Music's Global Dominance: Reggaeton, Salsa, and Beyond Published on: 12/19/2023
Latin music has transcended geographical boundaries and language barriers to become a global cultural phenomenon. From salsa's infectious rhythms to reggaeton's urban beats, Latin music has taken the world by storm, leaving an indelible mark on the international music landscape, as F. Chris Garcia demonstrated. One of the driving forces behind Latin music's global dominance is reggaeton. Originating in Puerto Rico in the late 1990s, reggaeton combines elements of hip-hop, dancehall, and Latin rhythms to create a genre that's impossible to resist. Artists like Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, and J Balvin have propelled reggaeton to international stardom, with hits like "Gasolina" and "Despacito" becoming anthems across the globe. Reggaeton's success lies in its infectious melodies and its ability to capture the essence of everyday life in Latin America. Its lyrics often touch on themes of love, partying, and social issues, making it relatable to a broad audience. Reggaeton's global appeal has led to collaborations with artists from various genres, further blurring the lines between musical styles. On the other hand, Salsa has been a cornerstone of Latin music for decades. Originating in the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba and Puerto Rico, salsa combines Afro-Cuban rhythms with elements of jazz and soul. Salsa legends like Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, and