The journey to curate Billboard’s 50 greatest Latin songs of all time spanned across continents and decades, encompassing music from Argentina to Spain and from the 1920s to 2018. This selection aimed to represent the vast landscape of Latin music, including sounds from Spain, ranging from classic Mexican ballads to vibrant Cuban son, energetic Colombian salsa, and contemporary bachata. The criteria for selection went beyond mere chart success, focusing instead on songs that have had a significant impact, marked cultural moments, influenced countless artists, and stood out as exceptional musical compositions.
More importantly, while fifty songs can barely scratch the surface of the immense world of Spanish language music, each song on this list remains incredibly relevant and resonates with audiences today. We invite you to explore and celebrate these 50 Popular Spanish Songs, chosen by our editors, presented in alphabetical order by title.
1. “A Dios le Pido” – Juanes
Writer: Juanes
In 2002, Juanes, a Colombian rocker with a generous spirit, drew inspiration from the “guasca” sounds of his hometown Medellin. He skillfully blended folk elements into Spanish pop/rock, creating a fresh, uplifting sound that immediately captivated listeners. “A Dios le Pido” (To God I Pray) although never reached No. 1 on the Hot Latin Songs chart, it solidified Juanes’ position as a beloved rock icon in Colombia. This song exemplifies popular Spanish songs that blend traditional rhythms with modern pop sensibilities.
2. “A puro dolor” – Son by Four
Writer: Omar Alfanno
“A puro dolor” (Pure Pain), performed by Puerto Rican salsa romántica quartet Son by Four, is the epitome of a heartbreaking breakup anthem. Released in 2000, its immense popularity led to both an English and a ballad version. It impressively topped Billboard’s decade-end Hot Latin Songs of the 2000s chart. Penned by Omar Alfanno, this iconic song held the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart for a record-breaking 20 weeks, a feat only surpassed by Shakira’s “La Tortura” in 2005. This track remains a staple in playlists of popular Spanish songs about heartbreak.
3. “Ahora Quien” – Marc Anthony
Writers: Estéfano, Julio Reyes
Featured on Marc Anthony’s 2004 album Valió la pena, “Ahora quien” (Now Who) stands as a profoundly moving song about the pain of separation. With poignant lyrics like “Who now, if not me? I look at myself in the mirror and I feel stupid. Illogical,” penned by Estefano, the song resonated deeply. It spent two weeks at No. 1 on the Hot Latin Songs chart, cementing its status as a contemporary classic within popular Spanish songs.
4. “Amigo” – Roberto Carlos
Writer: Roberto Carlos
Roberto Carlos, a prolific songwriter, crafted numerous romantic hits which, when translated into Spanish, became timeless anthems. Ironically, “Amigo” (Friend), a song dedicated to his friend and long-time writing partner, Erasmo Carlos, may be his most enduring work. It’s a song that transcends gender, embraced by both men and women, and a classic example of popular Spanish songs about friendship and camaraderie.
5. “Amor Prohibido” – Selena
Writers: AB Quintanilla and Pete Astudillo
Initially, “Amor Prohibido” (Forbidden Love), a light and catchy Texan cumbia about love across social divides, might seem like a simple fairytale. However, it struck a universal chord. Written by Selena’s brother, AB Quintanilla, and Pete Astudillo, it topped Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart for nine weeks. It marked a significant crossover moment for Tejano music. Since then, it has been covered by artists like Thalia and Moderatto, securing its place as one of the most popular Spanish songs of all time.
6. “Bailando” – Enrique Iglesias featuring Gente de Zona and Descemer Bueno
Writers: Enrique Iglesias, Descemer Bueno, Gente de Zona
“Bailando” (Dancing), released in 2014, is an exhilarating blend of Spanish flamenco and Latin urban rhythms, a collaboration that brought together Spain, Cuba, and Miami. This intoxicating mix made it impossible not to dance and lose yourself in “una noche loca” (a crazy night), guided by Enrique and his collaborators. It became the first Spanish song to reach over one billion views on YouTube, demonstrating the global appeal of popular Spanish songs that are perfect for dancing.
7. “Besame Mucho” – Various Artists
Writer: Consuelo Velazquez
Consuelo Velazquez, still a teenager in Mexico, penned “Bésame Mucho” (Kiss Me A Lot) in 1940. Its straightforward and passionate plea has made it arguably the most recorded and covered Spanish language song ever. Even The Beatles covered it, joining a vast list of artists like Luis Miguel, Diana Krall, Andrea Bocelli, Harry Connick Jr., Michael Bublé, Korean pop singer Ailee, and Il Divo. Its enduring popularity highlights “Besame Mucho” as a cornerstone of popular Spanish songs.
8. “Burbujas de amor” – Juan Luis Guerra
Writer: Juan Luis Guerra
Bachata was a relatively niche Dominican genre until Juan Luis Guerra, a singer-songwriter, infused it with sophistication and poetic lyrics. He managed to maintain its danceable essence while broadening its appeal. Guerra’s 1990 hit, “Burbujas de amor” (Love Bubbles), about being deeply in love (“Poor heart, he undresses impatiently at the sound of your voice”), introduced contemporary bachata to a global audience. This song is a prime example of popular Spanish songs that blend romance and dance rhythms.
9. “Cali Pachanguero” – Grupo Niche
Writer: Jairo Varela
Grupo Niche, with their powerful sound and fast tempos tailored for Cali’s energetic dancers, redefined salsa, giving it a distinctly Colombian flavor. “Cali Pachanguero,” released in 1984, became the quintessential anthem to Cali – the “capital of salsa” – written by Grupo Niche’s leader, Jairo Varela. This tribute to their hometown evolved into an international salsa anthem. Despite its massive popularity, Grupo Niche never created an official music video during the initial release, but live performances showcase the energy of this popular Spanish song.
10. “Color Esperanza” – Diego Torres
Writers: Diego Torres, Coti, Cachorro Lopez
Diego Torres’ “Color Esperanza” (Color of Hope) became an anthem of optimism during Argentina’s economic crisis in 2001. Nearly two decades later, it continues to offer solace and hope. Its lasting message and uplifting melody have made it a frequently revisited popular Spanish song for moments of reflection and encouragement.
11. “Conga” – Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
Writer: Enrique “Kike” Garcia
“Conga,” written by Miami Sound Machine drummer Enrique Garcia, offered an English-language take on the vibrant rhythms of carnival music. It sparked a Cuban music revolution on American radio in the 1980s, and ignited the Latin music explosion at the turn of the century. It proved that Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine could achieve mainstream success without compromising their Latin identity, marking a pivotal moment for popular Spanish songs crossing over to English-speaking audiences.
12. “Corazon Partió” – Alejandro Sanz
Writer: Alejandro Sanz
Flamenco-infused pop had existed before, but Alejandro Sanz elevated it to new heights in 1997 with “Corazon Partío” (Broken Heart). This gently swaying, bittersweet song about heartbreak, delivered with Sanz’s distinctive poetic lisp, demonstrated the broad pop appeal of his flamenco-influenced sound. It remains a celebrated example of popular Spanish songs that blend traditional Spanish sounds with contemporary pop.
13. “Danza Kuduro” – Don Omar feat. Lucenzo
Writers: Don Omar, Lucenzo, Faouze Barkati, Fabrice Toigo
“Danza Kuduro” transcended typical reggaeton. Blending reggaeton with African beats, it dominated Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart for 15 weeks and was the best-selling Latin track in the U.S. in both 2011 and 2012. While originally a Lucenzo song, Don Omar’s remix featuring Lucenzo transformed it into a global phenomenon, even featuring in the film Fast Five. This track showcased the global reach of popular Spanish songs with infectious dance rhythms.
14. “Despacito” – Luis Fonsi feat. Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber
Writers: Luis Fonsi, Erica Ender, Daddy Yankee
The combination of pop and reggaeton in “Despacito,” enhanced by folk touches like the Puerto Rican cuatro intro, and its undeniably catchy chorus – “Des-pa-ci-to” – made it the biggest song of 2017. With over 3 billion video views, it is undeniably one of the most significant hits in Latin music history. “Despacito” redefined the landscape of popular Spanish songs and their global impact.
15. “El Buen Perdedor” – Franco De Vita
Writer: Franco de Vita
The 1970s and 1980s Latin music scene was largely dominated by heartthrob balladeers singing songs written by others. Franco de Vita, a Venezuelan singer with Italian heritage, emerged writing and performing intensely personal love songs in a relatable, conversational style that resonated with a new generation. “El buen perdedor” (The Good Loser), from his 1984 debut album, introduced a fresh, intimate approach to romance within popular Spanish songs.
16. “El dia que me quieras” – Various artists
Writers: Carlos Gardel, Alfredo Le Pera
“El dia que me quieras” (The Day That You Love Me) is a result of the prolific songwriting partnership between tango legend Carlos Gardel and Alfredo Le Pera. Originally featured in the 1935 film of the same name and performed by Gardel, this haunting song about impossible love became a tango standard and then a broader romantic standard. Covered by countless artists, perhaps most notably by Luis Miguel, it was inducted into the Latin Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001. Gloria Estefan created the only English translation in 2013, further cementing its legacy as one of the most popular Spanish songs.
17. “El Farsante” – Ozuna
Writer: Ozuna
Ozuna, arguably the most consistently successful Latin hitmaker of recent years, gained prominence around 2016 with his smooth vocals and memorable melodies. He brought an R&B-influenced approach to reggaeton. His debut album, Odisea, solidified his status with 16 hits, ranging from reggaeton to the minimalist trap of “El farsante” (The Faker). This song highlighted the evolving sound of popular Spanish songs within the reggaeton genre. A later remix with Romeo Santos further broadened the song’s appeal.
18. “El Perdon” – Nicky Jam and Enrique Iglesias
Writer: Nicky Jam
Nicky Jam’s career had been on hold for over a decade before he released “El Perdon” (Forgiveness), a melancholic breakup anthem with Enrique Iglesias. This song marked a turning point for reggaeton, demonstrating its capacity for emotional depth. “El Perdon,” in both English and Spanglish versions, resonated widely, proving that reggaeton could be more than just party music. It became a defining track in the evolution of popular Spanish songs in the reggaeton style.
19. “El Rey” – José Alfredo Jiménez, Vicente Fernández
Writer: José Alfredo Jiménez
Penned by José Alfredo Jiménez, a mariachi legend, “El Rey” (The King) embodies the archetype of the macho mariachi singer: king, lover, hero, and man of the moment. Later recorded by Pedro Vargas and Vicente Fernández, among others, it is perhaps the most iconic ranchera song ever written. It remains a cornerstone in the repertoire of popular Spanish songs and mariachi music.
20. “El gran varón” – Willie Colón
Writer: Omar Alfanno
“El gran varón” (The Great Man) was not initially intended to be a single for Willie Colón. However, Colón insisted. Included in his 1989 album Top Secrets, his last for Fania, “El Gran Varón” tells the story of Simon, expected to be a “big man,” who instead goes to the U.S., discovers he is gay, and tragically dies of AIDS. The song broke new ground in Spanish-language music, addressing themes previously unexplored, and became a continental hit due to Colón’s innovative arrangement. This song stands out among popular Spanish songs for its bold and socially relevant narrative.
21. “Eres tu” – Mocedades
Writer: Juan Carlos Calderon
In the 1970s, everything Spanish group Mocedades sang seemed to turn to gold, starting with “Eres tu” (It Is You). Written by master songwriter Juan Carlos Calderon, it was a close runner-up in the 1973 Eurovision Song Contest. “Eres tu” was a brilliant pop song, with complex harmonies and gospel influences that were groundbreaking. Eventually translated into English as “Touch the Wind,” and recorded by artists such as The Shirelles and Johnny Mathis, the Spanish original reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains the only Spanish-language song to ever break into the top 10 of that chart, making it a historic entry in popular Spanish songs.
22. “Gasolina” – Daddy Yankee
Writers: Various
With its unforgettable hook and revolutionary beat (for its time), “Gasolina” (Gasoline) is the song that propelled reggaeton onto the international stage. It transformed reggaeton from a localized trend into a global phenomenon that persists 15 years later. With its incredibly catchy hook, Daddy Yankee had everyone dancing to the dembow beat. “Gasolina” is undeniably a pivotal track in the history of popular Spanish songs and reggaeton.
23. “Guantanamera” – Celia Cruz, Pete Seeger & more
Writer: Jose Fernandez Diaz based on poetry by José Martí
“Guantanamera,” a simple early 20th-century song based on poetry by Cuban patriot Jose Marti, is considered the unofficial Cuban national anthem. American folk singer Pete Seeger elevated this humble acoustic tune, adapting and recording it live at Carnegie Hall in 1963. The Sandpipers’ 1966 version reached the top 10 of Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. Artists from Celia Cruz to Wyclef Jean have since embraced and interpreted this song, solidifying its place as a timeless and popular Spanish song.
24. “Historia de un Amor” – Various Artists
Writer: Carlos Eleta Almarán
“Historia de un Amor” (Story of a Love) stands as one of Latin music’s most enduring boleros. Penned by a Panamanian composer and first popularized by Cuban singer Leo Marini, it gained even greater recognition through Argentine Libertad Lamarque, who also starred in the Mexican film of the same name. A truly pan-regional hit, it was originally written in 1955 as a tribute to Almarán’s deceased sister-in-law. “Historia” has been covered by countless artists, testament to its status as one of the most popular Spanish songs about love and loss.
25. “La Bamba” – Ritchie Valens
Writer: Folk song adapted by Ritchie Valens
Ritchie Valens’ rock ‘n’ roll rendition of the beloved Mexican folk song “La Bamba” became an instant top 40 hit in 1958. Covered countless times, notably by Los Lobos for Valens’ biopic of the same name, it remains a universally recognizable tune that anyone can sing along to, even without understanding Spanish. “La Bamba” is a classic example of how popular Spanish songs can transcend language barriers.
26. “La Maza” – Silvio Rodríguez, Luis Eduardo Aute, Mercedes Sosa, Shakira
Writer: Silvio Rodriguez
Silvio Rodriguez, a leading figure in Cuba’s nueva trova movement, wrote his songs within the confines of communist Cuba. Despite these constraints, his music transcended geographical and political boundaries, resonating with Latin American youth drawn to his poetic and symbolic lyrics. “La Maza” (The Mace), a powerful reflection on humanity, is made even more eloquent by its simple arrangement, featuring only acoustic guitar and percussion. It is recognized as a significant and popular Spanish song with profound lyrical depth.
27. “La nave del olvido” – José José
Writer: Dino Ramos
Mexican singer José José, with his extraordinary vocal range and ability to transition seamlessly from a soft croon to a powerful ballad, inspired generations of balladeers. His emotionally charged yet technically flawless vocals set a new standard. “La nave del olvido” (The Ship of Oblivion), from 1970 and penned by Dino Ramos, was his first international hit. It established him as a major force in popular Spanish songs and romantic ballads.
28. “La Rebelion” – Joe Arroyo
Writer: Joe Arroyo
“La Rebelion” (The Rebellion) is considered salsa king Joe Arroyo’s masterpiece. Painting a vivid picture of 17th-century slavery in Colombia, Arroyo gave a dignified voice to black culture in Latin America. Arroyo’s genius lies in his ability to create music with a powerful message without sacrificing rhythm and danceability. Released in 1986, at a time when Colombia was emerging as a salsa powerhouse, it was revolutionary for its time and remains so today. This song is a powerful example of popular Spanish songs that address important social issues.
29. “La Tierra del Olvido”- Carlos Vives
Writers: Carlos Vives and Iván Benavides
Carlos Vives’ “La Tierra del Olvido” (The Land of Oblivion), a nostalgic ode to lost love and homeland, forever changed the landscape of Colombian music. It introduced vallenato to a global audience. Vallenato remains broadly integrated into various forms of Latin music to this day. It paved the way for Colombian artists to achieve international superstardom. Every Colombian star from Shakira to Maluma and J Balvin owes a debt to Vives. The song also sparked a new musical movement, tropi-pop, blending pop and rock with Colombian tropical beats, which became the signature sound of artists like Juanes and Fonseca. Vives remains Colombia’s most authentic musical ambassador, and “La Tierra del Olvido” a landmark in popular Spanish songs.
30. “Livin’ la Vida Loca” – Ricky Martin
Writers: Robi Rosa, Desmond Child
The energetic horns, seductive bassline, and lyrics celebrating indulgence, combined with Ricky Martin’s charismatic performance, made “Livin’ la Vida Loca” (Living the Crazy Life) irresistible. This late 90s anthem, written by Robi Draco Rosa and Desmond Child, launched the “Latin pop explosion.” For millennials seeking to understand the Latin pop phenomenon, dancing to this song is more informative than any Wikipedia entry. It is a defining example of popular Spanish songs that achieved global crossover success.
31. “Macarena” – Los del Rio, Bayside Boys
Writers: Rafael Ruiz Perdigones and Antonio Romero Monge (Los del Rio)
Did anyone not dance the Macarena? This novelty track by Spanish duo Los del Río, remixed by Miami’s Bayside Boys, became a massive global hit in 1995. In 1996, it ranked No. 7 on Billboard’s All Time Top 100 songs after spending 14 weeks at the top of the chart. The “Macarena” dance craze swept the world, making it one of the most globally recognized popular Spanish songs.
32. “Malamente” – Rosalía
Writers: Rosalía, El Guincho, C Tangana
Rosalía’s contemporary, hip hop/electronic take on traditional flamenco in “Malamente” (Badly) was unprecedented. Released with a visually stunning and provocative video full of Spanish symbolism, “Malamente” broke molds both musically and visually. It fused Rosalía’s flamenco vocals with loops, beats, and raps, completely reinventing perceptions of Spain’s iconic musical tradition. This song exemplifies the innovative evolution within popular Spanish songs.
33. “Mariposa Traicionera” – Maná
Writers: Fher Olvera
While Maná had numerous hits prior to 2003, “Mariposa Traicionera” (Treacherous Butterfly), from Revolución de amor, was their first to reach No. 1 on Hot Latin Songs. Its blend of acoustic guitars and Caribbean rhythms ushered in a new era of success for Latin music’s biggest rock band with pop appeal. “Mariposa Traicionera” is a standout track among popular Spanish songs from the Latin rock genre.
34. “Matador” – Los Fabulosos Cadillacs
Writer: Gabriel Julio Fernandez Capello (aka Vicentico)
Argentine ska band Los Fabulosos Cadillacs created an instant party classic with “Matador,” from their 1994 album Vasos Vacios. The song topped charts across Latin America and gained widespread popularity as a soccer anthem, as part of the Grosse Pointe Blank movie soundtrack, and as a theme song for tennis player Rafael Nadal. “Matador” is a high-energy addition to any list of popular Spanish songs.
35. “Mediterráneo” – Joan Manuel Serrat
Writer: Joan Manuel Serrat
Joan Manuel Serrat’s organic, laid-back yet vibrant ode to his “Mediterráneo” (Mediterranean) evokes a sense of nostalgia for childhood, regardless of where that childhood took place. This 1971 track from the album of the same name has been voted the best pop song in Spain in two separate polls. “Mediterráneo” is a timeless classic among popular Spanish songs, celebrated for its poetic beauty and evocative melody.
36. “Mi Gente” – J Balvin, Willy William
Writers: J Balvin, Willy William, Andres Restrepo, Ashadally Adam, Mohombi
J Balvin’s irresistible reimagining of French DJ Willy William’s “Voodoo Song,” “Mi Gente” (My People), released in April 2017, possessed all the elements of a global hit – from its concept of uniting global influences and roots to its cutting-edge execution. It rapidly climbed charts, becoming the first-ever all-Spanish language song to reach #1 on Spotify’s global chart by August 1st. A remix featuring Beyoncé soon followed, further amplifying its global reach. “Mi Gente” is a landmark example of popular Spanish songs achieving worldwide dominance.
37. “Mujeres” – Ricardo Arjona
Writer: Ricardo Arjona
Who would have imagined that the definitive feminist pop anthem of the 90s would be written by a man? Ricardo Arjona, known for his poetic style, exalts women in every verse of “Mujeres” (Women). With lines like, “What would have Neruda written or Picasso painted, if muses like you didn’t exist?” he makes a compelling point. From Arjona’s 1992 album Animal Nocturno, “Mujeres” was the Guatemalan singer-songwriter’s first major hit. It stands as a unique and popular Spanish song with a powerful message of female appreciation.
38. “Música Ligera” Soda Stereo
Writer: Gustavo Ceratti
Argentine rock trio Soda Stereo, fronted by the late Gustavo Cerati, created numerous songs that are now considered classics throughout Latin America. “Música Ligera” (Light Music), instantly recognizable from its opening notes, is Soda’s most enduring anthem. It is a stadium-ready song that immediately gets audiences to their feet. “Música Ligera” is an essential track in any compilation of popular Spanish songs from the Latin rock genre.
39. “Obsesion” – Aventura
Writer: Romeo Santos
Bachata was forever changed by Aventura’s 2002 classic, “Obsesion” (Obsession), written by Romeo Santos. In one swift move, these Dominican American young men from the Bronx took their parents’ traditional, guitar-based bachata music and made it cool for a generation caught between two cultures and languages. “Obsesion” revitalized bachata and positioned it as a leading genre within popular Spanish songs.
40. “Oye Como Va” – Tito Puente, Carlos Santana, others
Writer: Tito Puente
One measure of a song’s greatness is its ability to endure across time and through various interpretations. “Oye Como Va” (Listen to How It Goes), penned by timbales master Tito Puente, was all about the rhythm when he first recorded it in 1963 (“Oye como va, mi ritmo, bueno pa’ bailar, mulata” — Listen to my rhythm, great to dance to, mulatta). It was a pulsating cha-cha-cha that received new life in Santana’s iconic 1970 cover, which reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. It continues to be a Latin standard today, showcasing the timeless appeal of popular Spanish songs.
41. “Pedro Navaja” – Rubén Blades, Willie Colón
Writer: Rubén Blades
Rubén Blades’ salsa rendition of Kurt Weill’s “Mack the Knife,” “Pedro Navaja,” produced and arranged by Willie Colon, surpassed even the immense popularity of Blades and Colon’s best-selling Siembra album. While the earlier English version, “Mack the Knife,” became an American standard recorded by Bobby Darin and Frank Sinatra, Blades’ Spanish-language “Navaja” introduced a generation unfamiliar with Spanish to New York’s vibrant new Latin beat. “Pedro Navaja” stands out among popular Spanish songs for its narrative complexity and musical innovation within the salsa genre.
42. “Querida”- Juan Gabriel
Writer: Juan Gabriel
With “Querida” (Dear), Mexican singer-songwriter Juan Gabriel masterfully blended his love for dramatic performance with his melodic gifts and improvisational style. Originally recorded in 1984, “Querida” was a phenomenal hit, reprised by many artists, including Juan Gabriel himself, who re-recorded it as a duet with Juanes in recent years. It is a signature song in the vast catalog of popular Spanish songs by Juan Gabriel.
43. “Secreto de amor” – Joan Sebastían
Writer: Joan Sebastian
“I’ll change your name, but I won’t change the story,” Joan Sebastian sang in “Secreto de amor” (Love Secret), a 2004 song about a forbidden romance inspired by one of his many loves. With its slow introduction and soaring chorus, it perfectly blends popular appeal with poignant emotion. “Secreto de amor” is a classic example of popular Spanish songs that explore themes of love and secrecy.
44. “Si no te hubieras ido” – Marco Antonio Solís
Writer: Marco Antonio Solis
After leaving Los Bukis, Mexico’s top-selling romantic group, Marco Antonio Solís’ solo career took off with equal momentum. “Si no te hubieras ido” (If You Hadn’t Left) solidified his position as a crooner of epic international stature. From his 1999 album Trozos de mi alma, certified platinum in the U.S., “Si no te hubieras ido” is a deeply moving anthem of lost love. Its inclusion in the film Y tu mama tambien further secured its place in pop culture. This song is a staple in playlists of popular Spanish songs about heartbreak and longing.
45. “Somos Novios” – Armando Manzanero
Writer: Armando Manzanero
An Armando Manzanero ballad is like a timeless, elegant tuxedo. “Somos Novios” (We Are Sweethearts), a 1968 classic, raised the bar for romantic expression. Famously revived in 1991 by Luis Miguel, it introduced a new generation to Manzanero’s genius. It is also Manzanero’s most mainstream track, thanks to Perry Como’s top 10 English version, “It’s Impossible.” “Somos Novios” is a quintessential example of popular Spanish songs celebrated for their timeless romanticism.
46. “Suavemente” – Elvis Crespo
Writer: Elvis Crespo
Merengue star Elvis Crespo’s 1998 solo debut, “Suavemente” (Softly), is an infectious, high-energy love song with bold, complex horn arrangements. It became the first merengue track to ever top Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart. “Suavemente” held the peak position for six weeks, becoming the longest-running tropical single on the chart (a record later broken by Marc Anthony’s “Vivir Mi Vida” in 2013). A bilingual version entered the Hot 100, peaking at No. 84, marking merengue’s debut on that chart. Most importantly, “Suavemente” demonstrated the potential for even regional Latin rhythms to achieve international recognition, solidifying its place among popular Spanish songs.
47. “Todos me miran” – Gloria Trevi
Writer: Gloria Trevi
Gloria Trevi’s “Todos me miran” (Everyone Is Watching Me) is more than just a female empowerment anthem; it is an anthem for anyone who has felt marginalized and found the strength to rise above. Its powerful message of self-acceptance and resilience resonates widely, making it a popular Spanish song with enduring impact.
48. “Tusa” – Karol G, Nicki Minaj
Writers: Karol G, Daniel Echavarria, Nicki Minaj, Ovy on the Drums
In “Tusa,” Karol G fulfilled a dream by collaborating with Nicki Minaj, who even delivered some Spanish lyrics. The track’s title, Colombian slang for the mix of heartache and spite felt after a breakup, resonated globally. With its blend of reggaeton beats and alluring energy, “Tusa” became a global anthem. This collaboration highlights the modern evolution of popular Spanish songs and their international appeal.
49. “Whenever, Wherever” – Shakira
Writers: Shakira, Tim Mitchell, Gloria Estefan
Shakira performed her first English-language hit, “Whenever, Wherever,” from 2001, at the Super Bowl this year, leading to a surge in sales. Its blend of South American folklore with a catchy chorus and danceable beat makes “Whenever, Wherever” a timeless anthem for love without boundaries. It remains a quintessential example of popular Spanish songs successfully crossing over to the English-speaking market.
50. “Y Cómo es el” – José Luis Perales
Writer: José Luis Perales
Spanish singer-songwriter José Luis Perales penned many ballads that defined the golden age of Latin romantic music in the 1970s and 1980s. “Y como es el” (And What Is He Like?), from 1982, where a man pleads with his ex-lover to describe her new love, is especially poignant. Originally written for Julio Iglesias, Perales decided to record it himself, creating one of his biggest hits. Marc Anthony famously covered it on his album Iconos, further cementing its status as one of the most enduring popular Spanish songs in the romantic ballad tradition.
