Reggaeton has undeniably cemented its place as a dominant global music genre. Its infectious rhythms and captivating energy have propelled its stars to international fame. Artists like Bad Bunny have achieved unprecedented success, consistently ranking as the world’s most streamed artist, proving reggaeton’s unwavering commercial power and cultural impact. Despite initial skepticism, reggaeton has revolutionized the Latin music industry and continues to expand its global reach, showing no signs of slowing down.
Beyond its commercial success, reggaeton embodies a rich and complex cultural narrative. It’s a genre deeply rooted in stories of migration, resistance, and celebration. Its origins trace back to Panama, where Black communities in the 1980s and 90s pioneered reggae en español. These groundbreaking sounds resonated across borders, sparking imaginations worldwide. Puerto Rico became a crucial hub, nurturing the genre in its underground scene during the 90s. This vibrant scene thrived through cross-pollination with New York hip hop, eventually exploding onto the global stage. From underground mixtape gems to chart-topping hits, Reggaeton Songs reflect the genre’s intricate history and constant evolution.
Compiling a definitive list of the greatest reggaeton songs is a challenging task, given the genre’s vast history spanning decades and continents. Reggaeton’s influence extends across diverse musical landscapes, incorporating elements of bachata, EDM, hip-hop, salsa, and more. While some selections may spark debate regarding genre purism, acknowledging foundational tracks from reggaeton pioneers like Nando Boom, El General, and Latin Fresh is crucial to understanding the genre’s comprehensive story.
To create a well-rounded and authoritative list, a diverse panel of music industry experts, critics, and veterans contributed their insights. This esteemed panel included:
- Kat Bouza, Senior News Editor, Rolling Stone
- Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo, Writer and Editor
- Jon Dolan, Reviews Editor, Rolling Stone
- Ricardo Duran, Rolling Stone en Español
- Katelina “Gata” Eccleston, Reggaeton Historian
- Veronica Bayetti Flores, Music Journalist
- Simon Vozick-Levinson, Deputy Music Editor, Rolling Stone
- Julyssa Lopez, Senior Music Editor, Rolling Stone
- Jennifer Mota, Music Historian and Journalist
- Moises Mendez II, Culture Reporter
- Diego Ortiz, Rolling Stone en Español
- Jorge Pabon, Molusco TV
- Jerry Pullés, Latin Music Programmer, Apple Music
- AJ Ramos, Head of Artist Partnerships, Latin Music and Culture, YouTube Music/Google
- Maykol Sanchez, Head of Artist & Label Partnerships, LATAM & U.S. Latin, Spotify
- Gary Suarez, Music Journalist
- Tainy, Producer
- Lucas Villa, Music Journalist
- Antonio Vázquez, Head of U.S. Latin Editorial – Spotify
- Chente Ydrach, Host
Reggaeton’s dynamic nature ensures its continued growth and evolution, often surprising even its most dedicated fans. As time progresses, reggaeton songs will undoubtedly acquire new meanings, and fresh innovations will shape the genre’s trajectory. For now, we present a curated selection of some of the most impactful reggaeton songs of all time.
Ozuna featuring Cardi B – “La Modelo” (2017)
Ozuna and Cardi B performing their popular reggaeton song "La Modelo" live
By late 2017, Cardi B was rapidly ascending to hip-hop stardom, fueled by hits like “Bodak Yellow.” Months before the release of her mega-hit “I Like It,” the Bronx rapper collaborated with Ozuna on “La Modelo.” This dancehall-infused track effectively chased away winter’s chill and reinforced the ongoing connection between New York hip-hop and reggaeton. “—G.S.”
Zion – “Zun Da Da” (2004)
Zion performing his solo reggaeton hit "Zun Da Da" onstage
Zion, known for his work in the duo Zion & Lennox, ventured into a solo career with his debut album, The Perfect Melody. “Zun Da Da,” the opening track, immediately demonstrated his ability to stand alone as a powerful force in reggaeton. While the song begins with dramatic violins, deviating from typical high-BPM reggaeton club anthems, it still captures the intensity and desire of the dance floor. Its lasting impact is evident in its samples—Ivy Queen’s “787” and Zion’s own 2022 track “Tu Amigo”—and its enduring popularity among DJs and reggaeton enthusiasts. “—E.L.C.”
Tomasa del Real featuring DJ Blass – “Barre Con El Pelo” (2018)
Tomasa del Real performing her neo-perreo reggaeton song "Barre Con El Pelo"
As some artists began to soften reggaeton’s historically explicit lyrics, Tomasa del Real embraced the genre’s raw, unapologetic roots with “Barre Con El Pelo.” Featured on her 2018 album, Bellaca del Año, the track is a potent mix of Auto-Tune vocals, overt sexuality, and driving beats courtesy of reggaeton pioneer DJ Blass. This combination created the perfect formula for perreo, the intense and sensual dance style associated with reggaeton. While the neo-perreo scene led by artists like del Real can sometimes feel separate from mainstream reggaeton, “Barre Con El Pelo” demonstrably pays homage to the genre’s origins. “—V.B”
J Balvin, Dua Lipa, Bad Bunny, and Tainy – “Un Día (One Day)” (2020)
J Balvin, Dua Lipa, Bad Bunny, and Tainy in the music video for their reggaeton pop fusion "Un Día (One Day)"
Tainy, who witnessed reggaeton’s evolution firsthand through his early work with Luny Tunes, continues to push the genre’s boundaries. In 2020, the Puerto Rican hitmaker masterfully blended pop sensibilities with his reggaeton roots in the ethereal “Un Día (One Day).” Dua Lipa’s vocals soar above a dreamy dembow rhythm, while Bad Bunny and J Balvin seamlessly adapt to Tainy’s innovative electronic soundscape. The song’s groundbreaking production earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop/Duo Performance, highlighting reggaeton’s expanding influence. “—L.V.”
Enrique Iglesias featuring Descemer Bueno and Gente de Zona – “Bailando” (2014)
Enrique Iglesias performing his global hit reggaeton fusion song "Bailando"
The summer of 2014 was dominated by Enrique Iglesias and his global hit “Bailando.” Teaming up with Cuban artists Descemer Bueno and Gente de Zona, the Spanish pop icon invited the world to dance along to this infectious track. “Bailando,” with its distinctive flamenco guitar accents, became a landmark fusion in Latin music, captivating audiences worldwide. The collaboration earned the prestigious Song of the Year award at the 2014 Latin Grammy Awards, solidifying its place among the most celebrated reggaeton-infused pop songs. “—L.V”
Kali Uchis featuring Jowell & Randy – “Te Pongo Mal (Prendelo)” (2020)
Kali Uchis performing her reggaeton inspired song "Te Pongo Mal (Prendelo)" with Jowell & Randy
Kali Uchis collaborated with reggaeton veterans Jowell & Randy for “Te Pongo Mal (Prendelo),” a standout track from her acclaimed 2020 album, Sin Miedo (del Amor y Otros Demonios). While listeners had previously experienced her smooth vocals over reggaeton beats in “Nuestro Planeta,” “Te Pongo Mal (Prendelo)” saw her fully embody the confident and sensual spirit of reggaeton pioneers like Ivy Queen. Uchis confidently asserts her sexuality, her sultry voice perfectly complementing Jowell & Randy’s energetic delivery, creating a powerful and empowering reggaeton track. “—M.M.”
Tainy featuring Julieta Venegas and Bad Bunny – “Lo Siento BB:/” (2021)
Tainy performing his experimental reggaeton song "Lo Siento BB:/" with Julieta Venegas and Bad Bunny
Tainy’s innovative vision for reggaeton is consistently experimental and futuristic, and “Lo Siento BB:/” exemplifies his diverse influences. Released in 2021, the song opens unexpectedly with indie icon Julieta Venegas singing over an otherworldly piano melody – a surprising yet inspired choice that blends seamlessly into the dreamy production. The second surprise arrives with Bad Bunny’s humorous and heartfelt verses joining Venegas’ vocals, creating a moment that is both endearing and groundbreaking within the realm of reggaeton songs. “—L.V.”
Danny Ocean – “Me Rehúso” (2016)
Danny Ocean performing his romantic reggaeton influenced hit "Me Rehúso"
While Venezuelan singer-songwriter Danny Ocean might not be strictly categorized as a reggaeton artist due to his rhythm choices extending beyond traditional dembow, his breakthrough single “Me Rehúso” perfectly captures the genre’s romantic essence. Set against a polyrhythmic backdrop, Ocean’s heartfelt plea to a lover at the potential end of a relationship resonates deeply, showcasing reggaeton’s capacity for emotional depth and connection. “—G.S.”
Don Miguelo – “Como Yo Le Doy” (2008)
Don Miguelo performing his breakthrough reggaeton hit "Como Yo Le Doy"
Don Miguelo’s initial hit was “Que Tu Quieres,” but his subsequent track, “Como Yo Le Doy,” became an unexpected success story. Despite initial doubts and prevailing narratives of reggaeton’s decline, the Dominican artist triumphed with this song, achieving mainstream stardom. “Como Yo Le Doy” spawned multiple remixes, including collaborations with Pitbull and J Alvarez & Zion, further solidifying its impact and popularity within the reggaeton landscape. “—J.M”
Nicky Jam and J Balvin – “X” (Equis) (2018)
Nicky Jam and J Balvin in the music video for their reggae-infused reggaeton hit "X"
Nicky Jam stands as one of reggaeton’s most enduring figures, with a career dating back to 1995. His ability to reinvent himself is remarkable. After facing a career slowdown in the early 2000s, he revitalized his music career from Colombia, becoming instrumental in shaping the Medellín sound. “X,” a collaboration with J Balvin, reflects this successful resurgence. This reggae and dancehall-infused track became a viral sensation, climbing charts globally and demonstrating the enduring appeal of veteran reggaeton artists. “—M.M.”
Rauw Alejandro and Chencho Corleone – “Desesperados” (2021)
Rauw Alejandro and Chencho Corleone collaborating on their upbeat reggaeton track "Desesperados"
Rauw Alejandro, a known admirer of classic reggaeton, collaborated with Chencho Corleone of Plan B for “Desesperados,” an energetic track from his album Vice Versa. Chencho’s instantly recognizable voice blends seamlessly with Rauw’s smooth vocals, as they trade playfully suggestive lyrics over a driving dembow beat enhanced with electronic elements. “Desesperados” achieved quadruple-platinum status, successfully merging reggaeton’s past and present sounds, proving the timeless appeal of classic reggaeton vibes with modern production. “—L.V.”
Alex Gargolas featuring Randy – “Soy Una Gargola” (2006)
Alex Gargolas, a key producer in reggaeton, known for tracks like "Soy Una Gargola"
Alex Gargolas, a somewhat underrated figure in reggaeton production, has left a significant mark on the genre, particularly with “Soy Una Gargola.” In 2006, the Puerto Rican producer teamed up with Randy Ortiz to create this sleek, electronic-infused track embodying the nocturnal atmosphere of the club scene. Randy’s vocals, depicting himself as a gargoyle-like creature of the night, emphasize the production’s rich darkness and highlight the more daring and sensual aspects of perreo culture within reggaeton songs. “—L.V.”
Nio Garcia, J Balvin, and Bad Bunny – “AM Remix” (2020)
Nio Garcia performing his hit reggaeton song "AM Remix" with featured artists J Balvin and Bad Bunny
Nio Garcia was already experiencing a breakthrough with the romantic track “AM,” but the remix amplified its success exponentially. Enlisting J Balvin and Bad Bunny proved to be a strategic move, not only for their star power but also for their seamless integration into the breezy production refined by the late Flow La Movie. Together, they highlighted a softer, more sensual dimension of reggaeton music, expanding its appeal and demonstrating its versatility. “—L.V.”
Shakira featuring Maluma – “Chantaje” (2016)
Shakira and Maluma performing their reggaeton influenced hit "Chantaje"
Following her initial foray into reggaeton influences with “La Tortura” in 2005, Shakira returned to the genre in 2016 with “Chantaje.” This time, the Colombian pop icon collaborated with rising star Maluma. Backed by slinky beats with electronic touches from Medellín producers the Rudeboyz, Shakira’s sensual vocals intertwined with Maluma’s flirty flow, resulting in a steamy collaboration that garnered multiple Latin Grammy nominations and showcased reggaeton’s mainstream appeal. “—L.V.”
Angel y Khriz featuring Gocho “El Lápiz de Platino” and John Eric – “Na De Na” (2008)
Angel y Khriz, the dynamic duo known for their energetic reggaeton club anthems like "Na De Na"
“Na De Na” is instantly recognizable from its signature snapping intro. Led by the energetic duo Angel y Khriz, the song builds anticipation leading to its chorus, featuring a beat drop perfectly designed for club environments and the instantly chantable phrase “Ella no suelta na’ na’ na’/Dice na’ na’ na’/Que no hay na’ na’ na.” It served as a precursor to the boisterous, anthemic club tracks that would dominate in 2009, providing an outlet for dance floor release and solidifying reggaeton’s role in high-energy nightlife. “—M.M.”
Becky G and Natti Natasha – “Sin Pijama” (2018)
Becky G and Natti Natasha performing their empowering reggaeton anthem "Sin Pijama"
Historically, the reggaeton scene has been predominantly male. Fortunately, this is changing, and “Sin Pijama” played a crucial role in this shift. Becky G, transitioning from upbeat English-language pop, collaborated with Natti Natasha on this sexually empowered and unapologetic anthem. Despite some controversy, both artists defended the song, with Natti Natasha stating that women “want to see themselves portrayed in music as they really feel,” highlighting the importance of female voices and perspectives within reggaeton songs. “—M.M.”
