Spanish music is experiencing an incredible resurgence. Latin artists like Karol G and Bad Bunny dominate Spain’s charts while acts such as Rosalia, Bad Gyal and Dani Fernandez remain popular outside their native land.
Natalia Lacunza adds an indie flare to Spanish pop, creating an intimate experience for her listeners with emotive lyrics that speak directly to them. Tangana stands out among emerging figures with her eclectic musical approach combining genres into an original and provocative sound.
1. Bad Gyal
Alba Farelo Sole, more commonly known by her stage name Bad Gyal, quickly rose to fame in Spain’s urban music scene thanks to her catchy blends of dancehall and reggaeton music. She made her first debut with a version of Rihanna’s Work sung in Catalan before releasing mixtapes like Slow Wine and Worldwide Angel in 2016. In 2019, Interscope Records and Aftercluv signed her on which helped expand her reach with songs such as Santa Maria, Zorra and Alocao becoming very popular.
She’s garnered the interest of luxury fashion brands and is widely-respected as an influencer on Spanish social media platforms, garnering praise from luxury fashion houses as well as Spanish social media influencers alike for her distinctive edgy style and feminine girl-power vibe in dancehall and reggaeton genres, offering something different than some artists; instead displaying cool confidence without becoming arrogant; always staying true to herself while maintaining cool confidence while remaining authentic; also has natural charisma that helps distinguishes her among male-dominated urbano scene; carrying herself with poise and sense of playfulness even when faced by critics!
2. Dani Fernandez
Dani Fernandez gained recognition through boy band Auryn before venturing out as a solo artist in 2018. His romantic love songs showcase his beautiful gravelly tone and talent for storytelling, while collaborations with Sofia Ellar and David Otero ensure his polished indie-pop is sure to enchant.
Sister Crayon draws its sound inspiration from Colombia’s longstanding musical history, drawing on various Latin music subgenres (vallenatito and cumbia among others) to produce an infectious mix that’s sure to get people dancing.
Sister Crayon writer Liz Lopez balances both writing for Sister Crayon and cardiac rehabilitation at a hospital with her day job as an accomplished writer who has written for E!, Disney, The CW Skybound Nerdist Geek & Sundry among many other publications. Recently she sold an HBO Max comedy pilot about her experience in mental healthcare system while hosting podcasts for E! and UCB respectively.
3. Elena Garca
Elena Garca is one of the best-known Spanish singers worldwide. Known for her sensuous vocals and beautiful poetry lyrics, Elena Garca has become an in-demand international artist renowned for exploring topics like love, personal growth and empowerment through her songs which resonate with listeners worldwide.
Luis Fonsi has become a household name in Latin pop music with the global success of Despacito. His romantic ballads and soulful vocals have won him multiple awards and recognition.
Kiko Veneno and Joaquin Sabina are two highly acclaimed musicians with an inimitable Spanish rock music style. Their music features an eclectic fusion of genres and styles that has helped redefine traditional conventions.
Other notable artists include Monica Naranjo, whose dramatic and passionate performances have cemented her status as an influential leader of contemporary Spanish rock. Ricky Martin has become a household name thanks to hits such as Livin La Vida Loca. Beginning his career at 12 with Menudo before going solo years later.
4. Miguel Rios
Rios is one of Spain’s most influential artists, having revolutionized rock in Spanish at a time when there was much resistance. He won many hearts with his smooth vocals and unforgettable melodies.
His songs enchant listeners with references to nature and humanity, creating an immersive atmosphere which leaves listeners spellbound. His intricate guitar playing merges perfectly with his rich, hypnotic tonality to evoke feelings of transcendence in listeners.
Growing up in an alternative Far North Queensland community provided him with ample inspiration, while his Americana roots ran deep in the soil. Now living near Melbourne amidst tall eucalypts, dappled light, and feathered warblers inspires his work.
Running Blue was recorded straight to tape in a tiny tin studio amongst the wispy eucalypts of Cottlesbridge during a Capricorn eclipse full moon in winter, recorded and engineered by Greg O’Shea with mastering by Craig Pilkington (Spiderwebs/Paul Kelly). His new release offers an array of styles from emotive alt-folk narratives to upbeat bluesy outings – this release features them all.