Puerto Rico may be a small island, but when it comes to music, its impact is anything but small. The Caribbean gem has given rise to a powerhouse lineup of artists who have not only dominated Latin music charts but have also shaken the global music scene. From the electrifying rhythms of reggaetón to the soul-stirring ballads of Latin pop, Puerto Rican singers have consistently set trends, broken records, and captured hearts worldwide. Whether you’re dancing to the infectious beats of Daddy Yankee, vibing to the genre-bending brilliance of Bad Bunny, or swooning over the timeless voice of Ricky Martin, there’s no denying the cultural and musical influence these stars wield. But it’s not just about fame—it’s about passion, resilience, and a deep connection to their roots. These artists have turned their stories, struggles, and rhythms into anthems that unite millions. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and iconic singers from Puerto Rico who’ve carved their names into music history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the magic of Boricua beats, get ready to be inspired, moved, and energized by the incredible talent that calls this island home. Let the rhythm take over!
1. Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, has completely transformed the landscape of Latin music—and pop culture at large. Fusing reggaetón, Latin trap, and experimental sounds with a fearless fashion sense, he became more than a musician—he became a movement. From the explosive energy of YHLQMDLG to the introspective El Último Tour del Mundo and the summer-defining Un Verano Sin Ti, Bad Bunny has been the most streamed artist in the world multiple years in a row, a feat that speaks to his universal appeal. But it’s not just about the music—his lyrics tackle heartbreak, mental health, politics, and identity with raw honesty. Offstage, he uses his platform to challenge toxic masculinity, support the LGBTQ+ community, and represent Puerto Rico with pride on a global stage. Whether he’s wrestling in WWE or headlining Coachella, Bad Bunny does it on his terms—bold, unapologetic, and unfiltered. In an industry that often demands conformity, he’s writing his own rulebook, proving that authenticity and cultural pride can break records—and barriers. He’s not just reshaping Latin music; he’s reshaping what a global superstar can look and sound like.
2. Luis Fonsi
Luis Fonsi’s journey through music is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of a timeless voice. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Fonsi started his career singing soulful ballads that captured hearts across Latin America. Long before the global phenomenon of “Despacito,” he had already built a strong fanbase with hits like “No Me Doy por Vencido” and “Imagíname Sin Ti.” But in 2017, “Despacito” didn’t just become a hit—it became a cultural earthquake, topping charts in dozens of countries and opening new doors for Latin artists worldwide. Yet, Fonsi remains grounded in what made him beloved in the first place: his emotive delivery, genuine warmth, and ability to tell stories through song. His voice is smooth yet powerful, equally at home in romantic ballads or upbeat reggaetón-pop crossovers like “Échame la Culpa.” Beyond music, Fonsi is a dedicated humanitarian, often lending his platform to causes close to his heart. With more than two decades in the industry, Luis Fonsi has become more than a Latin pop star—he’s an ambassador of Latin music and a symbol of its global reach.
3. Daddy Yankee
Daddy Yankee, born Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez, isn’t just a reggaetón artist—he’s the architect of the genre’s global takeover. Bursting onto the scene with the explosive anthem “Gasolina,” he brought the raw energy of Puerto Rican street music to the world’s biggest stages. Known as the “King of Reggaetón,” Daddy Yankee helped transform a once-underground sound into a global phenomenon. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he’s delivered hit after hit—from party anthems like “Rompe” to worldwide smashes like “Despacito” with Luis Fonsi. But Yankee’s impact runs deeper than just chart success. His music often carries messages of resilience and determination, and his charisma and business savvy turned him into a brand all his own. In 2022, he released his final studio album Legendaddy, closing one chapter of his life while securing his place in history as a trailblazer. Beyond the beats and catchy hooks, Daddy Yankee represents pride, hustle, and cultural power. His legacy isn’t just about music—it’s about breaking down barriers and building something bigger for the generations that follow.
4. Ricky Martin
Ricky Martin’s name is synonymous with Latin pop superstardom, but his influence stretches far beyond music charts. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Martin got his start with the boy band Menudo before launching a solo career that would eventually take the world by storm. His explosive performance of “La Copa de la Vida” at the 1999 Grammys and the global success of “Livin’ la Vida Loca” marked a turning point—not just for him, but for Latin artists everywhere. With magnetic charisma and a powerful voice, Martin brought Latin rhythms into the global mainstream. But his artistry isn’t just about the spotlight—he’s used his platform to advocate for children’s welfare, LGBTQ+ rights, and humanitarian causes through the Ricky Martin Foundation. Albums like A Medio Vivir, Vuelve, and Música + Alma + Sexo showcase his range, from heart-wrenching ballads to high-energy dance tracks. Ricky Martin is more than a singer; he’s a cultural icon whose influence continues to inspire new generations. Whether on stage, in activism, or simply through his fearless authenticity, he remains one of Puerto Rico’s brightest stars.
5. Ozuna
Ozuna, affectionately nicknamed “El Negrito de Ojos Claros,” has become one of the defining voices of modern Latin music. Born Juan Carlos Ozuna Rosado in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he emerged on the scene with a fresh blend of reggaetón, trap, and pop that set him apart from the crowd. His 2017 debut album Odisea shattered records and established him as a global star almost overnight. Follow-ups like Aura, Nibiru, and ENOC only solidified his status, combining infectious beats with emotionally resonant lyrics. Ozuna’s voice is smooth and melodic, often bringing vulnerability to a genre traditionally known for bravado. His songs frequently explore themes of love, struggle, spirituality, and perseverance, which has helped him connect deeply with fans around the world. Collaborations with artists like Rosalía, Anuel AA, and Cardi B have further expanded his reach. Despite his superstardom, Ozuna remains refreshingly humble, often crediting his family and faith as his grounding forces. His artistry reflects a new era in reggaetón—one that’s emotionally honest, globally minded, and built to last.
6. Marc Anthony
Marc Anthony is a towering figure in Latin music—a vocalist whose power and passion are matched only by his longevity. Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Anthony grew up surrounded by salsa, boogaloo, and American pop, all of which shaped his genre-defying sound. With his breakout salsa album Todo a Su Tiempo in the mid-1990s, he brought the classic rhythms of Latin dance floors into the mainstream. His voice—rich, commanding, and deeply emotional—has turned hits like “Vivir Mi Vida,” “Valió la Pena,” and “Ahora Quién” into modern classics. But Anthony isn’t just a singer; he’s a performer of the highest caliber, electrifying audiences with his magnetic stage presence and heartfelt interpretations. He’s also an actor, producer, and philanthropist, using his fame to support humanitarian efforts through the Maestro Cares Foundation. With multiple Latin Grammys and millions of albums sold, Marc Anthony has become a cultural ambassador, bridging Latin and American music with grace. His legacy is one of passion, pride, and soulful excellence that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
7. Ivy Queen
Ivy Queen, born Martha Ivelisse Pesante Rodríguez, didn’t just break into the male-dominated world of reggaetón—she kicked down the door and made space for generations of women to follow. Hailing from Añasco, Puerto Rico, she emerged in the late ’90s with a voice and presence that refused to be ignored. Her breakthrough hit “Quiero Bailar” wasn’t just a dance floor anthem—it was a bold statement of female agency and empowerment in a genre often criticized for its machismo. Ivy Queen brought lyrical depth, fierce energy, and unapologetic confidence to reggaetón, using her platform to challenge gender norms and uplift women. Over the years, she’s remained a vocal advocate for equality, all while continuing to release music that hits hard both sonically and socially. With a career spanning decades, she’s earned the right to be called the “Queen of Reggaetón”—not just for her pioneering music, but for the cultural shift she helped spark. Ivy Queen is more than an artist; she’s a revolutionary force who forever changed the rules of Latin urban music.
8. Anuel AA
Anuel AA, born Emmanuel Gazmey Santiago, is one of the most polarizing and influential voices in Latin trap—a genre he helped define. Emerging from the gritty streets of Carolina, Puerto Rico, Anuel’s early mixtapes and collaborations built a loyal fanbase, but it was his 2018 debut album Real Hasta la Muerte, released the day he left prison, that catapulted him into global stardom. His raspy voice, confessional lyrics, and streetwise intensity gave Latin trap an edge that resonated deeply with fans seeking raw authenticity. His music often dives into themes of loyalty, betrayal, pain, and perseverance, drawing from his own turbulent life experiences. Love him or hate him, Anuel’s influence is undeniable—he’s worked with artists like Karol G, Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, and J Balvin, blending reggaetón, trap, and hip-hop into his own unique style. Controversial yet compelling, Anuel AA represents both the gritty realism and emotional depth of a new era in Latin music. He’s not here to please everyone—he’s here to tell his truth, and that’s exactly why his voice won’t be silenced.
9. Chayanne
For over three decades, Chayanne has charmed his way into the hearts of Latin music lovers with his smooth vocals, captivating stage presence, and enduring charisma. Born Elmer Figueroa Arce in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, he began his career as part of the boy band Los Chicos, but it was his solo work that truly made him a household name. Songs like “Tiempo de Vals,” “Dejaría Todo,” and “Torero” became staples at weddings, parties, and romantic playlists across Latin America. Chayanne’s performances are legendary—not just for his singing, but for his graceful dancing and electric energy on stage. His ability to blend pop, ballads, and dance tracks with effortless charm has kept him relevant across generations. Outside of music, Chayanne has starred in telenovelas and films, expanding his influence as a beloved entertainer. Despite his fame, he maintains a reputation for humility and grace, making him one of the most respected figures in Latin pop. Chayanne isn’t just an artist—he’s a symbol of elegance, romance, and timeless appeal.
10. Residente (René Pérez Joglar)
René Pérez Joglar, better known as Residente, is a lyrical firebrand whose work fuses artistry with activism. As co-founder and frontman of the genre-bending band Calle 13, Residente pushed the boundaries of Latin music, combining reggaetón, hip-hop, rock, and world music into a potent vehicle for social commentary. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Residente has always used his platform to speak truth to power—tackling issues like colonialism, poverty, education, corruption, and identity with fearless precision. His solo work continues that legacy, blending global musical traditions with deeply personal and politically charged lyrics. Whether he’s rapping in a documentary about his DNA ancestry or performing at protests, Residente remains committed to justice and storytelling. With over 30 Latin Grammys, he’s one of the most decorated Latin artists in history—not for commercial hits, but for his ability to turn complex ideas into powerful anthems. His voice is not just heard—it’s felt. In a world of noise, Residente stands out as a fearless artist unafraid to challenge the system and elevate the conversation.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
