Hispanic music has a rich and diverse history, encompassing a wide range of genres and styles from all across the Spanish-speaking world. Over the years, numerous Hispanic singers have risen to fame, achieving worldwide success and acclaim for their incredible talents.
From the iconic voices of legendary singers like Julio Iglesias and Gloria Estefan to the contemporary pop stylings of stars like Shakira and Enrique Iglesias, Hispanic singers have left an indelible mark on the music industry and have inspired countless fans around the globe.
Many Hispanic singers have used their music to explore themes of identity, culture, and social justice, using their platforms to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations about important issues affecting their communities.
Through their incredible voices and powerful performances, Hispanic singers have brought people together across borders and cultures, bridging divides and creating a sense of unity through the power of music. Their contributions to the world of music are immeasurable, and their legacies will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
1. Ricky Martin
Ricky Martin is a Puerto Rican singer, actor, and philanthropist who rose to international fame in the late 1990s with his hit song “Livin’ la Vida Loca.” Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1971, Martin began his career as a child actor in a number of Puerto Rican television shows and commercials.
Martin’s breakthrough as a musician came in 1999 with the release of his self-titled album, which included the hit singles “Livin’ la Vida Loca” and “She’s All I Ever Had.” The album sold over 22 million copies worldwide and established Martin as a major force in the Latin music scene.
Martin has continued to release music and tour the world, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way. He has also been involved in a number of philanthropic efforts, particularly in the area of child welfare. In 2002, he founded the Ricky Martin Foundation to advocate for the well-being of children around the world.
In addition to his music and philanthropic work, Martin has also been an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights. He came out as gay in 2010, and he has been an influential voice in the movement for equality and acceptance. Martin’s impact on music and culture continues to be felt, and his legacy as a trailblazer and advocate is secure.
2. Selena
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, commonly known as Selena, was an American singer, songwriter, and fashion designer who was a leading figure in Tejano music. Born in Lake Jackson, Texas in 1971, Selena began performing at a young age with her family band, Selena y Los Dinos.
Selena’s music is characterized by a unique blend of Tejano, cumbia, and pop influences, and her powerful voice and energetic performances made her a beloved icon of Latin music. Her hit songs, including “Como La Flor” and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom”, continue to be popular today, and her legacy has inspired countless musicians.
In addition to her music career, Selena was also a fashion icon, designing her own clothing line that showcased her distinctive style and helped her stand out in the male-dominated Tejano music scene.
Tragically, Selena’s life was cut short when she was murdered by the president of her fan club in 1995 at the age of 23. However, her music and legacy continue to live on, and she remains an influential figure in Latin music and a beloved icon to fans around the world.
3. Enrique Iglesias
Enrique Iglesias is a Spanish singer, songwriter, and actor known for his smooth vocals and catchy pop hits. Born in Madrid, Spain in 1975, Iglesias is the son of legendary Spanish singer Julio Iglesias, and began his own music career in the 1990s.
With his good looks, charming personality, and undeniable musical talent, Iglesias quickly rose to fame and became one of the most successful Latin music artists of all time. He has sold over 180 million records worldwide and has won numerous awards for his music, including several Grammys and Latin Grammys.
Iglesias’ music blends elements of pop, dance, and Latin music, characterized by his distinctive voice and infectious hooks. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Whitney Houston, Pitbull, and Usher, among others.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Iglesias has also ventured into acting, appearing in films like Once Upon a Time in Mexico and TV shows like How I Met Your Mother.
Despite his incredible success, Iglesias remains humble and dedicated to his craft, continually pushing himself to explore new sounds and styles. His contributions to the world of music have earned him a place as one of the most beloved and influential Latin music artists of all time.
4. Shakira
Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist who has become a global icon with her unique blend of pop, rock, and Latin American music. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia in 1977, Shakira began writing songs and performing as a child, and by the age of 13, she had signed her first record deal.
Shakira’s music has been hugely influential, blending elements of rock, pop, and Latin American music to create a distinctive sound that has earned her countless fans around the world. Her hit songs, including “Whenever, Wherever,” “Hips Don’t Lie,” and “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” have topped charts and broken records.
In addition to her music career, Shakira is also known for her philanthropy. She has been involved in a number of charitable causes, including education, poverty, and health care. In 2011, she founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, which provides education and nutrition to vulnerable children in Colombia and other parts of Latin America.
Shakira’s influence on music and culture is vast and far-reaching, and her legacy as a trailblazer and role model is secure. She has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for her music and humanitarian work, and she continues to inspire fans around the world with her passion, talent, and dedication to making a positive difference in the world.
5. Gloria Estefan
Gloria Estefan is a Cuban-American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who rose to fame in the 1980s as the lead vocalist of the Miami Sound Machine. Born in Havana, Cuba in 1957, Estefan and her family immigrated to Miami, Florida in 1960 to escape the communist regime in their home country.
Estefan’s music is characterized by a unique blend of Latin and pop influences, and her powerful voice and energetic performances have made her a beloved icon of Latin music. Her hit songs, including “Conga” and “Rhythm is Gonna Get You”, helped popularize Latin music in the United States and around the world.
In addition to her music career, Estefan has also been an advocate for social justice and human rights, and has used her platform to raise awareness for important causes. She has also ventured into acting, appearing in a number of films and television shows, and has been involved in numerous business ventures.
Throughout her career, Estefan has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the music industry, including multiple Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her legacy as a pioneering female musician and a trailblazer for Latin music continues to inspire and influence fans around the world.
6. Celia Cruz
Celia Cruz was a Cuban-born singer and one of the most influential figures in the history of Latin music. Born in Havana in 1925, Cruz began her music career in the 1940s and quickly gained a reputation as a gifted vocalist with a powerful voice and infectious energy.
Over the course of her career, Cruz recorded more than 70 albums and collaborated with countless musicians, earning numerous awards and accolades for her music. Her style, known as salsa, blended elements of Cuban and Afro-Caribbean music with jazz and other styles, creating a unique and vibrant sound that resonated with audiences around the world.
Cruz’s music was characterized by her unmistakable voice and passionate performances, which embodied the spirit of the Latin American diaspora and celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the region. She was known for her colorful costumes, dynamic stage presence, and infectious personality, which endeared her to fans of all ages and backgrounds.
In addition to her musical accomplishments, Cruz was also a trailblazer for women in the music industry, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of Latina artists. Her contributions to the world of music and culture have earned her a place as a true icon and a beloved figure in the hearts of fans around the world.
7. Marc Anthony
Marc Anthony is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his powerful voice and passionate performances. Born in New York City in 1968, Anthony began his music career in the late 1980s, releasing his debut album, Rebel, in 1988.
Over the course of his career, Anthony has become one of the most successful Latin music artists of all time, selling over 12 million albums worldwide and earning numerous awards and accolades, including two Grammy Awards and five Latin Grammy Awards.
Anthony’s music is characterized by his emotive vocals and dynamic style, blending elements of salsa, bolero, and other Latin American styles with pop and R&B. He has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull, and Will Smith, among others.
In addition to his music, Anthony has also acted in several films and TV shows, including the hit series Hawthorne and the movie El Cantante, in which he portrayed legendary salsa singer Héctor Lavoe.
Anthony’s contributions to the world of music and culture have earned him a place as one of the most beloved and influential Latin music artists of all time, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
8. Vicente Fernández
Vicente Fernández is a legendary Mexican singer, actor, and film producer, often referred to as the “King of Ranchera Music.” Born in Huentitán El Alto, Jalisco, Mexico in 1940, Fernández began his career in music in the 1960s, quickly gaining a following with his powerful vocals and traditional ranchera style.
Fernández’s music is characterized by its powerful emotion and storytelling, often drawing from his own experiences growing up in rural Mexico. He has become one of the most iconic figures in Mexican music, with hit songs such as “Volver, Volver” and “El Rey” cementing his status as a beloved icon of the genre.
In addition to his music career, Fernández has also been an accomplished actor, appearing in over 30 films and television shows. He has also been recognized for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and social justice.
Throughout his career, Fernández has received numerous accolades for his contributions to Mexican culture and the music industry, including multiple Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards. His legacy as a pioneering musician and cultural icon continues to inspire and influence fans around the world.
9. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, also known as J.Lo, is an American singer, actress, and dancer who has become one of the most iconic figures in popular culture. Born in New York City in 1969, Lopez began her career as a dancer before transitioning into acting and music.
Throughout her career, Lopez has released multiple hit albums, including On the 6, J.Lo, and This Is Me…Then, and has sold over 70 million records worldwide. Her music is characterized by its upbeat dance beats and catchy hooks, often featuring elements of Latin music and hip-hop.
In addition to her music, Lopez has also appeared in numerous films and TV shows, earning critical acclaim for her performances in movies like Selena and Hustlers. She has also served as a judge on popular singing competitions like American Idol and World of Dance.
Lopez’s incredible talent and undeniable charisma have made her an inspiration to countless fans around the world, and she has become a symbol of empowerment and self-confidence for women everywhere. She continues to break down barriers and challenge expectations in the entertainment industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
10. Placido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is a Spanish opera singer, conductor, and arts administrator who has become one of the most celebrated and influential figures in the world of classical music. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo began his music career as a tenor, making his operatic debut in Mexico in 1959.
Over the years, Domingo has become known for his powerful vocals and his ability to interpret a wide range of operatic roles, from romantic heroes to complex villains. He has performed at many of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Royal Opera House in London.
In addition to his performing career, Domingo has also worked as a conductor and administrator, serving as the general director of the Los Angeles Opera and the Washington National Opera. He has been recognized with numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music and culture, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Domingo’s impact on the world of classical music is vast and far-reaching, and his legacy as a trailblazer and role model is secure. He continues to inspire audiences around the world with his passion, talent, and dedication to the art of opera.
11. Julio Iglesias
Julio Iglesias is a Spanish singer, songwriter, and former professional soccer player who has become one of the most successful and popular Latin music artists of all time. Born in Madrid in 1943, Iglesias began his music career in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that he achieved international success.
Over the course of his career, Iglesias has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He has recorded in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese, and has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and Willie Nelson, among others.
Iglesias’ music is characterized by his smooth, romantic style and emotive vocals, which have earned him legions of fans around the world. He has won numerous awards and accolades for his music, including a Grammy Award and a Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
In addition to his music career, Iglesias is also a philanthropist and has worked to support a variety of causes, including education, health care, and the fight against poverty.
Iglesias’ contributions to the world of music and culture have earned him a place as one of the most beloved and influential Latin music artists of all time, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
12. Marta Sanchez
Marta Sánchez is a Spanish singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the 1980s as the lead vocalist of the band Olé Olé. Born in Madrid in 1966, Sánchez began her music career as a backup singer for various artists before joining Olé Olé in 1985.
Sánchez’s music is characterized by a unique blend of pop and rock influences, and her powerful vocals and energetic performances have made her a beloved icon of Spanish music. She has released multiple successful albums as a solo artist, including “Mujeres” and “Azabache”, and has collaborated with a number of other artists throughout her career.
In addition to her music career, Sánchez has also ventured into acting and television, appearing in a number of films and shows. She has also been an advocate for various social and political causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support important issues.
Throughout her career, Sánchez has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the music industry, including multiple awards from the Spanish Music Academy. Her legacy as a pioneering female musician and a trailblazer for Spanish pop music continues to inspire and influence fans around the world.
13. Luis Miguel
Luis Miguel is a Mexican singer and actor who has achieved immense popularity and critical acclaim throughout Latin America and around the world. Born in Puerto Rico in 1970, Miguel began his music career as a child, and by the age of 11, he had released his first album.
Over the years, Miguel has become known for his powerful vocals and his ability to blend genres like pop, bolero, and mariachi into a unique and compelling sound. His hit songs, including “La Incondicional,” “Ahora Te Puedes Marchar,” and “Cuando Calienta El Sol,” have earned him millions of fans and numerous awards.
Miguel has also made a name for himself as an actor, appearing in a number of films and television shows throughout his career. He has been recognized with multiple awards for his acting work, including a Daytime Emmy Award for his performance in the telenovela “Un Sol Para Los Chicos.”
Throughout his career, Miguel has remained committed to his fans and to his craft, constantly pushing himself to evolve and grow as an artist. His music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and his legacy as a cultural icon and musical legend is secure.
14. Juanes
Juanes is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and guitarist who has become one of the most successful and influential Latin music artists of his generation. Born in Medellín, Colombia, in 1972, Juanes began his music career in the 1990s, performing with various bands before launching his solo career in 2000.
Over the course of his career, Juanes has released multiple hit albums and singles, including “A Dios le Pido,” “La Camisa Negra,” and “Me Enamora,” among others. His music is characterized by its energetic rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and socially conscious themes, often touching on issues like peace, love, and social justice.
Juanes has won numerous awards and accolades for his music, including multiple Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards. He has also collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including Nelly Furtado, Juan Luis Guerra, and Tony Bennett, among others.
In addition to his music career, Juanes is also a philanthropist and activist, working to promote social justice, environmental conservation, and peace around the world. He has established the Mi Sangre Foundation, which supports programs that help vulnerable and marginalized communities in Colombia and other parts of the world.
Juanes’ contributions to the world of music and culture have earned him a place as one of the most beloved and influential Latin music artists of his generation, and his legacy continues to inspire and uplift fans around the world.
15. Luis Fonsi
Luis Fonsi is a Puerto Rican singer, songwriter, and actor who has become one of the most popular and influential Latin American artists of his generation. Born in San Juan in 1978, Fonsi began his music career as a child, performing in local talent shows and singing in the children’s choir at his church.
Fonsi’s breakthrough as a musician came in 2000 with the release of his album “Comenzaré,” which included the hit single “Imaginame Sin Ti.” Since then, he has gone on to release a string of successful albums and hit songs, including “No Me Doy Por Vencido,” “Despacito,” and “Échame La Culpa.”
Fonsi’s music has been hugely influential, blending elements of pop, rock, and Latin American music to create a distinctive sound that has earned him millions of fans around the world. He has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his music, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards.
In addition to his music career, Fonsi has also been involved in a number of charitable causes, particularly in the area of disaster relief. He has worked with organizations like UNICEF and the Red Cross to support victims of natural disasters around the world.
Fonsi’s impact on music and culture is vast and far-reaching, and his legacy as a trailblazer and role model is secure. He continues to inspire fans around the world with his passion, talent, and dedication to making a positive difference in the world.
16. Paulina Rubio
Paulina Rubio is a Mexican singer, actress, and television personality who has become one of the most successful Latin music artists of all time. Born in Mexico City in 1971, Rubio began her music career as a member of the group Timbiriche before launching a successful solo career in the 1990s.
Rubio’s music is characterized by its unique blend of pop, rock, and Latin influences, and her energetic performances and powerful vocals have made her a beloved icon of Latin music. She has released multiple successful albums, including “Paulina” and “Border Girl,” and has collaborated with a number of other artists throughout her career.
In addition to her music career, Rubio has also ventured into acting and television, appearing in a number of films, telenovelas, and reality shows. She has also been an advocate for various social and political causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support important issues.
Throughout her career, Rubio has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the music industry, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards and Billboard Latin Music Awards. Her legacy as a pioneering female musician and a trailblazer for Latin pop music continues to inspire and influence fans around the world.
17. ThalÍa
Thalía is a Mexican singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur who has become one of the most iconic and influential figures in Latin music. Born in Mexico City in 1971, Thalía began her music career in the 1980s as a member of the group Din-Din before launching a successful solo career in the 1990s.
Thalía’s music is characterized by its infectious pop beats and Latin rhythms, and her powerful vocals and dynamic performances have made her a beloved icon of Latin music. She has released multiple successful albums, including “En Éxtasis” and “Amor a la Mexicana,” and has collaborated with a number of other artists throughout her career.
In addition to her music career, Thalía has also ventured into acting and television, appearing in a number of telenovelas and movies. She has also been an advocate for various social and political causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support important issues.
Throughout her career, Thalía has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the music industry, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards and Billboard Latin Music Awards. Her legacy as a pioneering female musician and a trailblazer for Latin pop music continues to inspire and influence fans around the world.
18. José José
José José, also known as the “Prince of Song,” was a Mexican singer and actor who achieved immense popularity throughout Latin America and around the world. Born in Mexico City in 1948, José began his music career as a child, singing in local radio stations and clubs.
Over the years, José became known for his powerful vocals and his ability to interpret a wide range of musical genres, including bolero, ballad, and pop. His hit songs, including “El Triste,” “La Nave del Olvido,” and “Gavilán o Paloma,” have earned him millions of fans and numerous awards.
José’s music has been hugely influential, inspiring generations of Latin American artists and paving the way for the Latin pop music movement. He has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his music, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards.
In addition to his music career, José also made a name for himself as an actor, appearing in a number of films and television shows throughout his career. He was widely regarded as one of the most beloved and iconic figures in Latin American entertainment.
José’s impact on music and culture is vast and far-reaching, and his legacy as a cultural icon and musical legend is secure. His music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world, cementing his place in the pantheon of Latin American music.
19. Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny, also known as Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is a Puerto Rican rapper, singer, and songwriter who has become a major force in the Latin music scene. Born in 1994 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny first gained attention in 2016 with his hit song “Diles,” which became a viral sensation.
Since then, Bad Bunny has become one of the most popular and influential Latin American artists of his generation, known for his genre-bending music that combines elements of reggaeton, trap, and Latin American music. His hit songs, including “Mía,” “Callaíta,” and “I Like It,” have topped charts and broken records.
In addition to his music career, Bad Bunny has also become known for his fashion sense and his outspoken advocacy for social justice issues. He has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his music, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards and an American Music Award.
Bad Bunny’s impact on music and culture is vast and far-reaching, and his legacy as a trailblazer and role model is secure. He continues to inspire fans around the world with his innovative music, his unique style, and his commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
20. Olga Tañón
Olga Tañón is a Puerto Rican singer and songwriter who has become one of the most successful and influential Latin music artists of all time. Born in Puerto Rico in 1967, Tañón began her music career in the 1980s as a member of the merengue group Chantelle before launching a successful solo career in the 1990s.
Tañón’s music is characterized by its infectious merengue rhythms and powerful vocals, and her dynamic performances and charismatic stage presence have made her a beloved icon of Latin music. She has released multiple successful albums, including “Siente el Amor” and “Yo Por Ti,” and has collaborated with a number of other artists throughout her career.
In addition to her music career, Tañón has also been an advocate for various social and political causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support important issues. She has also been actively involved in philanthropic work, supporting a number of charitable organizations throughout her career.
Throughout her career, Tañón has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the music industry, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards and Billboard Latin Music Awards. Her legacy as a pioneering female musician and a trailblazer for Latin merengue music continues to inspire and influence fans around the world.
Edward Tomlin 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.
