Latin Music Producers everyone need to know
Latin music is a diverse and vibrant genre that encompasses many styles, influences and cultures. From salsa to reggaeton, from cumbia to bachata, Latin music has something for everyone. But behind every hit song, there is a talented producer who shapes the sound, vision and direction of the artist. In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the most influential and innovative Latin music producers you need to know
First, What is Latin Music?
Latin music is a term used by the music industry to encompass various styles of music from Ibero-America, which encompasses Latin America, Spain, Portugal and the Latin community in Canada and the United States, as well as music that is sung in Spanish and/or Portuguese. Latin music reflects the various blends of indigenous, African and European influences that have varied over time and space in the region
Latin music can be divided into three broad categories: religious music, folk music and art music (informally, classical). Religious music refers to the musical traditions that developed within the Catholic Church after the arrival of the Spanish and Portuguese in the Americas. Folk music refers to popular musical expressions that emerged from the fusion of indigenous, African and European elements in different social and regional contexts. Art music refers to musical practices imported from Europe that were adapted to colonial cultures and later incorporated local and regional traits.
Latin music has had a great diffusion and influence in the world, especially in the 21st century, thanks to the media, migration and cultural exchange. Examples of Latin music genres include tango, salsa, merengue, bossa nova, reggaeton, mariachi and bachata.
Tainy
Born in Puerto Rico, Tainy is one of the most successful and sought-after producers in the Latin urban scene. He started his career at 16, working with legendary duo Wisin & Yandel, and has since produced hits for artists like Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Daddy Yankee, Rosalía and more. He is known for his versatile and creative style, blending reggaeton with pop, trap, R&B and electronic elements. He has won four Latin Grammys and was nominated for a Grammy for his work on Bad Bunny’s album YHLQMDLG.
Eduardo Cabra
Also known as Visitante, Eduardo Cabra is a Puerto Rican musician, composer and producer who co-founded the acclaimed alternative band Calle 13 with his stepbrother René Pérez (Residente). He has produced all of Calle 13’s albums, as well as solo projects for Residente and iLe, his sister. He has also worked with artists like Jorge Drexler, Rubén Blades, Vicente García and Kany García. He has won 28 Latin Grammys and three Grammys, making him one of the most awarded Latin music producers in history. He is known for his eclectic and experimental style, incorporating elements from folk, rock, hip hop, jazz and world music.
Julio Reyes Copello
Born in Colombia, Julio Reyes Copello is a pianist, composer and producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in Latin pop and ballad. He has produced albums for artists like Alejandro Sanz, Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, Thalía and more. He has won six Latin Grammys and was nominated for two Grammys for his work on Alejandro Sanz’s album La Música No Se Toca. He is known for his elegant and sophisticated style, creating lush arrangements and melodies that highlight the vocals and emotions of the artists.
Toy Selectah
Born in Mexico, Toy Selectah is a DJ, producer and pioneer of the cumbia digital genre. He started his career as a member of the hip hop group Control Machete, and later became a solo artist and producer. He has worked with artists like Calle 13, Diplo, Major Lazer, Bomba Estéreo, Manu Chao and more. He has also created his own label and collective called Mad Decent Worldwide México. He is known for his innovative and eclectic style, mixing cumbia with hip hop, dancehall, electro and global sounds.
Linda Briceño
Born in Venezuela, Linda Briceño is a singer, songwriter, trumpeter and producer who has made history as the first woman to win the Latin Grammy for Producer of the Year in 2018. She has produced albums for artists like Luis Enrique, Mau y Ricky, Cazzu and Evaluna Montaner. She has also released her own solo albums as Ella Bric (her artistic name) and as part of the duo Ella y El Muerto. She is known for her fresh and dynamic style, creating catchy pop songs with urban and tropical influences.
