Puerto Rico isn’t just a tropical paradise of stunning beaches and rich culture — it’s a powerhouse of global music influence. From the vibrant streets of San Juan to the biggest stages in the world, this small island has produced some of the most iconic and groundbreaking artists to ever grace the mic. Whether it’s reggaeton, salsa, Latin pop, or trap, Puerto Rican singers have been at the forefront of shaping the sound of Latin music and exporting it worldwide. These artists don’t just make hits — they create movements, set trends, and inspire millions with their talent, charisma, and unapologetic authenticity. In this list, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and influential singers from Puerto Rico — names that have dominated charts, broken records, and left an unforgettable mark on music history. From the reggaeton revolution led by Daddy Yankee and Bad Bunny to the timeless voices of Ricky Martin and Marc Anthony, these stars represent the rhythm, resilience, and soul of Borinquen. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just beginning your journey into Latin music, this list is your gateway to understanding why Puerto Rican artists continue to lead the global musical stage — one unforgettable song at a time.
1. Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, has become one of the most influential and genre-defying artists of the 21st century. Rising to fame in the late 2010s, he broke through the barriers of Latin music by fusing reggaeton, Latin trap, alternative beats, and socially conscious lyrics into a sound that resonated globally. His debut made it clear he wasn’t just another artist — he was a movement. With albums like YHLQMDLG, El Último Tour del Mundo, and Un Verano Sin Ti, he redefined commercial success, topping international charts and becoming the most-streamed artist on Spotify for multiple years — an unprecedented feat for a Spanish-language performer. Beyond music, Bad Bunny has made headlines for his gender-fluid fashion choices, electrifying WWE performances, and fearless advocacy on issues like gender equality, mental health, and Puerto Rican politics. He brings authenticity to everything he touches, whether it’s in a stadium full of fans or a quiet moment on social media. With each move, he challenges norms and sets new standards, not just in music, but in culture at large. Bad Bunny isn’t just a star from Puerto Rico — he’s the global voice of a generation.
2. Ricky Martin
Ricky Martin is more than a pop icon — he’s a pioneer who helped usher Latin music into the global mainstream. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he began his career as a young teen in the famed boy band Menudo, but his star truly ascended when he launched his solo career. His 1999 smash hit “Livin’ la Vida Loca” took the world by storm, breaking cultural and language barriers and becoming a defining anthem of the Latin pop explosion. With his dynamic stage presence, magnetic charisma, and crossover appeal, Martin became a household name across continents. His catalog includes bilingual hits that span genres, and his influence paved the way for countless Latin artists who followed. Beyond music, Ricky has shined on Broadway, acted in television, and championed humanitarian causes. Through the Ricky Martin Foundation, he’s tackled issues like human trafficking and child welfare. He’s also been a leading voice for LGBTQ+ rights, openly embracing his identity and encouraging others to live authentically. Ricky Martin isn’t just a trailblazer in entertainment — he’s a symbol of pride, empowerment, and cultural unity whose legacy continues to inspire new generations worldwide.
3. Luis Fonsi
Luis Fonsi has one of those voices that’s instantly recognizable — smooth, heartfelt, and packed with emotional depth. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and trained in classical music, Fonsi began his career with romantic ballads that earned him widespread acclaim across Latin America. But in 2017, everything changed with the release of “Despacito,” his now-legendary collaboration with Daddy Yankee. The song didn’t just top charts — it obliterated streaming records, brought Latin music further into the global mainstream, and became an international anthem celebrating Puerto Rican pride and rhythm. Yet, Fonsi is no one-hit wonder. His career spans over two decades, and he has continually reinvented himself, mixing Latin pop with reggaeton, R&B, and electronic influences. His ability to balance traditional romanticism with modern beats has made him one of the most versatile and enduring figures in Latin music. Whether delivering a tender ballad or a dance-floor hit, Luis Fonsi connects with listeners on a deep level. His artistry, humility, and willingness to evolve have earned him not only commercial success but also the respect of fans and peers alike. He remains a true ambassador of Puerto Rican talent on the world stage.
4. Daddy Yankee
Daddy Yankee, born Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez in San Juan, is more than a reggaeton artist — he’s the architect of a global movement. When his breakout hit “Gasolina” dropped in 2004, it didn’t just make waves — it unleashed a tsunami of interest in reggaeton, bringing the gritty, energetic sound of Puerto Rico’s streets to the world. For years, Daddy Yankee has remained a dominant force in Latin music, delivering smash after smash, including “Rompe,” “Limbo,” and his unforgettable team-up with Luis Fonsi on “Despacito.” But Yankee isn’t just about hits — he’s a visionary with an uncanny sense of what will resonate. He’s a master producer, entrepreneur, and cultural influencer who helped legitimize reggaeton as a major force in global music. In 2022, he announced his retirement with the release of Legendaddy, a triumphant farewell album that doubled as a celebration of his genre-defining legacy. Through it all, he has stayed true to his roots, never forgetting where he came from. Daddy Yankee didn’t just change the sound of Latin music — he globalized it. His influence is woven into the fabric of modern pop, hip-hop, and urban music everywhere.
5. Chayanne
Chayanne, born Elmer Figueroa Arce in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, has spent decades captivating audiences with his signature mix of romanticism, dance, and charm. Starting out in the early 1980s as a member of the boy band Los Chicos, he quickly launched a solo career that blossomed into one of the most enduring in Latin pop. With timeless hits like “Tiempo de Vals,” “Torero,” and “Provócame,” Chayanne became the soundtrack of countless weddings, parties, and first loves across Latin America. His smooth vocals, dynamic performances, and movie-star looks earned him comparisons to global pop idols, while his heartfelt ballads cemented his place as one of Latin music’s premier crooners. He also found success in television and film, broadening his appeal and showcasing his versatility. Despite his long career, Chayanne has never faded from the spotlight. He continues to tour and release new music, consistently connecting with new generations of fans. His staying power is a testament to his authenticity, discipline, and deep connection with his audience. More than just a singer, Chayanne is a beloved cultural figure — a performer whose charisma and passion have made him a Latin icon for the ages.
6. Ozuna
Ozuna, born Juan Carlos Ozuna Rosado in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has become one of the most recognizable voices in Latin urban music. Blending reggaeton, Latin trap, and pop with a uniquely melodic vocal style, Ozuna brings an emotional depth to his music that sets him apart. His career took off with songs like “Dile Que Tú Me Quieres” and “Se Preparó,” which showcased not only his vocal talent but also his ability to connect deeply with listeners. His debut album Odisea shattered streaming records and positioned him as a major force in the genre. Known for his impressive list of collaborations — including tracks with Cardi B, DJ Snake, and J Balvin — Ozuna continues to push the boundaries of Latin music. Whether he’s delivering a club anthem or a heartfelt ballad, he maintains authenticity and versatility. Over time, he’s grown not just as an artist, but as a cultural figure, bringing global attention to Puerto Rican music and culture. With multiple Latin Grammy wins and consistent chart-topping hits, Ozuna is far more than a trend — he’s a transformative artist whose impact on the Latin music world is undeniable.
7. Ivy Queen
Ivy Queen isn’t just a pioneer — she’s a powerhouse. Born Martha Ivelisse Pesante Rodríguez in Añasco, Puerto Rico, she entered the male-dominated world of reggaeton in the 1990s and never looked back. With her commanding voice, fierce lyricism, and unapologetic attitude, Ivy Queen carved out a space for women in a genre that had often excluded them. Her breakout track “Quiero Bailar” became not just a hit, but a feminist anthem — challenging double standards and demanding respect on the dance floor and beyond. Over the years, she’s released a series of impactful albums that explore everything from love and betrayal to empowerment and survival. Her influence is evident in today’s generation of female Latin artists who cite her as a trailblazer. But Ivy Queen isn’t about trends; she’s about truth, talent, and timelessness. Whether she’s on stage, in the studio, or advocating for women’s rights, she commands attention and admiration. She truly earned her title as the “Queen of Reggaeton” — not because the industry handed it to her, but because she took it and held it with pride, resilience, and an unshakable voice that still inspires.
8. Farruko
Farruko, born Carlos Efrén Reyes Rosado in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, has made a name for himself as one of Latin music’s most dynamic and unpredictable talents. Starting in the early 2010s with catchy reggaeton-pop hybrids, Farruko quickly gained popularity with hits like “6 AM” (with J Balvin) and “Passion Whine.” But he refused to be boxed in. As his career evolved, he embraced Latin trap and EDM-infused sounds, with tracks like “Krippy Kush” and especially the massive global hit “Pepas” showcasing his willingness to experiment. “Pepas” in particular took the world by storm, combining an electronic dance beat with Latin energy in a way that resonated across cultures and age groups. Farruko is more than a hitmaker — he’s an artist on a constant journey. In recent years, he’s explored themes of faith, personal growth, and spirituality in his music, reflecting a deeper transformation that has surprised many longtime fans. Whether delivering high-octane anthems or introspective tracks, Farruko remains a powerful voice in the Latin music scene. His ability to reinvent himself, stay relevant, and connect with a diverse audience makes him one of Puerto Rico’s most compelling and influential modern artists.
9. Residente
Residente, born René Pérez Joglar in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico, is more than just a musician — he’s a poet, activist, and cultural provocateur. Best known as the frontman of Calle 13, he helped revolutionize Latin music with a blend of hip-hop, rock, world beats, and powerful social commentary. With songs like “Latinoamérica” and “Atrévete-te-te,” Residente tackled issues ranging from colonialism and classism to identity and cultural pride, delivering his messages with unmatched lyrical skill and emotional intensity. After going solo, he continued this legacy with deeply personal and politically charged songs like “René,” a raw, vulnerable look at his own struggles with mental health, fame, and purpose. He’s won more Latin Grammy Awards than any other artist, a testament to both his artistry and his influence. Residente’s work extends beyond music into film and activism, where he uses his platform to challenge corruption and inequality — particularly in Puerto Rico. He’s never been interested in simply entertaining; he wants to educate, question, and inspire. Through fearless storytelling and genre-defying innovation, Residente has become a voice of resistance and reflection — one that speaks not just to Puerto Ricans, but to all those demanding change.
10. Marc Anthony
Marc Anthony may have been born in New York City, but his heart — and his music — pulse with Puerto Rican pride. As the best-selling tropical salsa artist of all time, he has brought the passionate rhythms of Latin music to global audiences with a voice that’s as powerful as it is emotive. His rise to stardom in the 1990s came through salsa-infused interpretations of pop ballads, but it was his charisma and vocal command that truly set him apart. Tracks like “Vivir Mi Vida”, “Valió la Pena”, and “Ahora Quién” have become timeless anthems, cementing his status as a Latin music icon. Over his career, he has won multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards and has performed on the world’s biggest stages. Beyond music, Anthony has also found success as an actor and philanthropist, launching the Maestro Cares Foundation to support underserved children in Latin America. Despite decades in the spotlight, his passion remains undiminished, his performances electric, and his influence far-reaching. Marc Anthony doesn’t just sing songs — he tells stories that resonate across cultures and generations. He’s not only an ambassador for salsa but also for the rich soul of Puerto Rican artistry.
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.
