The Best Latin Music of 2013
If you’re a fan of Latin music, then you’ll want to check out our list of the best Latin music of 2013. From sizzling salsa to infectious merengue, there’s something for everyone on this list. So turn up the volume and enjoy!
Best Albums
Here are the best Latin albums of 2013, as chosen by the Latin music experts at NPR.
-Calle 13, “Entren Los Que Quieran”
-Juanes, “La Vida… Es Un Ratico”
-Ozomatli, “Area 52”
-Caetano Veloso & Gilberto Gil, “Dois Amigos, Um Século De Música: Multishow Live”
-Ana Tijoux, “Vengo”
-Shakira, “Sale El Sol”
-Ximena Sariñana, “Esquemas Juveniles”
Best Songs
1. “Vida,” Gloria Estefan
2. “Limbo,” Daddy Yankee
3. “Borro Cassette,” Maluma
4. “La La La (Brazil 2014),” Shakira feat. Carlinhos Brown
5. “6 AM,” J Balvin feat. Farruko
6. “El Perdón,” Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias
7. “Mi Verdad,” Mana feat. Shakira
8. “Latinoamérica,” Calle 13
9. “Todo Comenzó Bailando,” Axé Bahia 2013 feat. Latino
10. “Como Le Gusta a Tu Cuerpo,” Carlos Vives
Best New Artists
There were plenty of great new artists making Latin music in 2013, and it was tough to narrow it down to just a few. But here are our picks for the best new artists of the year.
Los Rakas: This Panamanian duo has been making waves with their unique blend of hip-hop, reggae, and dancehall. Their debut album, El Dorado, is full of energetic tracks that will get you moving.
iLe: This Puerto Rican singer made a big splash with her debut album, iLevitable. Her soulful voice and amazing range are on full display on tracks like “No Podrán” and “Tú No Eres Nadie.”
Macaco: This Spanish reggae-rock band released their seventh studio album this year, entitled El Manguito. It’s a fun and upbeat record that’s perfect for summertime listening.
Rayito Colomé: This Mexican traditional folk singer released his debut album, 24 Kilates de Oro, in 2013. His music is a beautiful mix of traditional Mexican sounds and modern influences.
Best Collaborations
1. “Mi Verdad”
Performed by: Mana & Shakira
Album: Conexión Shakira
2. “Vida”
Performed by: Ricky Martin & Natalie Bussière-Martin (Martin’s daughter)
Album: Vida
3. “Bésame”
Performed by: Juicy J, Wiz Khalifa & Ty Dolla $ign
Album: Stay Trippy
4. “Limbo”
Performed by: Daddy Yankee
Album: Prestige