The 50 Most Essential Spanish-Language Rappers of Yesterday and Today: Staff Picks

The pioneering Uruguayan rapper first made a name for herself in the mid ’90s as a member of the Argentinian rap group Actitud María Marta, which arrived charged with socially conscious themes and a feminist message. Alika released her solo debut in 2000, and in 2006, her critically acclaimed Educate Yourself — a reggae-infused album where she showcases her linguistic prowess as an outspoken emcee rooted in Rastafarian culture alongside Nueva Alianza. Her latest efforts include 2022 LP Sistren Songs & Dubs, a collaboration with Mad Professor. Widely considered an important figure in both Latin hip-hop and reggae en español scenes alike, Alika is currently touring California, with stops in Los Angeles, Santa Cruz and Sacramento. — ISABELA RAYGOZA

24-year-old Young Miko was a tattoo artist before she burst into the mainly male-dominated Puerto Rican bubbling scene of new rappers, as one of the first openly lesbian artists. Her first move? Releasing music on SoundCloud with tracks delineated by an experimental narrative and personal storylines which reveal a wilder and more disenchanted attitude than that from her counterparts. The result earned her four entries across Billboard charts in 2023, including “Classy 101” with Feid, which peaked at No. 15 on Hot Latin Songs and also reached No. 17 on the Billboard Global 200 in May. Her latest “Mañana,” a tripartite collab with Tainy and The Marias, has further helped her to flourish as a commercial artist. —PAMELA BUSTIOS

Cuban rapper Rxnde Akozta has made significant strides in the Latin hip-hop landscape. He rose to prominence in the early ‘00s during a hip-hop festival held in Havana. With a style that fuses astute lyricism and a compelling flow that reflects daily life in Cuba, he garnered international attention with his third album Un de Rap (2010), where he penned a love letter to Latin hip-hop in “Que Es Para Ti el Rap” also thanking the movement’s founding father Vico C. He’s kept active ever since; his most recent single is a collaboration with producer Rodesens on “Cosas del Querer.” —I.R.

With his potent cocktail mix of raw and raunchy lyricism over infectious trap beats, Yung Beef has become a prominent figure in the Spanish rap circuit. Whether rapping about his time slanging in the streets or his sexual encounters, his music bops over occasional neoperreo and cloud rap configurations. Formerly a member of Granada-based rap collective Kefta Boyz, the rapper has been at it for over a decade, first making a formidable presence on SoundCloud as part of the plugg scene (2018’s El Plugg Mixtape, 2021’s El Plugg 2), and later, via viral tracks on various platforms (2023’s Gangster Paradise). He is the founder of La Vendición, his music label. —I.R.

Considered one of the best freestylers in Colombia, Valles-T (real name: Juan Camilo Ballesteros) has been a staple in national and international rapping championships over the last decade, winning events like Red Bull Colombia and FMS Colombia and finishing the iconic Red Bull Batalla de Los Gallos as a runner-up in 2019. Known for his stage presence and his flow, his mastery can be heard in singles like 2022’s “Desde Pequeño” and the more melodic “De Los Buenos,” featuring VanVan DLB & Yofth DLB, released in June 2023. — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS

Bnet, one of the most compelling freestylers of today, has catapulted himself to the summit of the battle rap world with his meticulous linguistic skills. With numerous freestyle rap championships under his belt, the Spanish artist was crowned the prestigious Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos champion in 2019, when he defeated Colombian rap adroit, Valles-T. He’s also played a starring role in the Freestyle Masters Series competition. — I.R.

The elegance in which C. Tangana blends rap with Spanish and Latin rhythms has made him a force to be reckoned with, a true artist of substance both musically and lyrically. While the Madrid-born Latin Grammy-winner rose to international fame with the 2016 pop track “Antes de Morirme,” alongside then-girlfriend Rosalía — he also co-wrote eight of the songs on her breakthrough album El Mal Querer — he is a rapper at heart. Tangana (real name Antón Álvarez Alfaro) started out as Crema in the early 2000’s, releasing raps including “Equilibrio” and “La Conquista” before gaining recognition as a member of the hip-hop band Agorazein. He reappeared as C. Tangana in 2011. —S.R.A.

Hailing from Carolina, Puerto Rico, Lito y Polaco is one of the highly-respected Latin rap duos from the late ‘90s and early ‘00s. Through their notable hits, such as “Mundo Frío” and “Testimonio de la Calle,” the duo used its platform to rap about social issues including poverty and injustice, to name a few. Lito y Polaco signed with Pina Records in 1999 before parting ways amicably in 2005. The former has since earned his first-ever Latin Grammy nomination for best rap/hip-hop song in 2021 and in 2022. The latter, also known as El Polakan, is currently signed to GLAD Empire and actively releasing music. — JESSICA ROIZ

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Brooklyn, MC Ceja (named after his heavy set of eyebrows) became one of the island’s first bilingual rappers of the ‘90s. Easily tossing hard-hitting bars in Spanish and English, the artist (born Alberto Mendoza Nieves) went from performing at local parties to dropping underground mixtapes and staple tracks such as “Se Lamentarán,” “Bacalao,” “Loba,” and “Brillando Más.” Very few times Ceja has released commercial music, always being at the forefront of the Latin hip-hop movement. In addition to his music career, Ceja helps run the record label GLAD Empire, founded by his wife (and former Billboard Latin Power Player), Camille Soto. — J.R.

Portavoz’s music brims with poetic brilliance, often using his talent to amplify marginalized voices. He released his solo debut in 2005, Formato de MC, while still managing to form part of the rap group Salvaje Decibel in the ’00s. With three solo albums under his belt, including Escribo Rap Con R de Revolución (2012) and Millanao (2019), the Chilean rap virtuoso infuses thought-provoking lyricism and soulful beats, with obvious influences from hip-hop legends like Tupac and Nas. On 2023’s hard-hitting single “En Todas Partes,” also starring Promaabro, Nfx, DJ See All and more, he continues to cement his position as a driving force in Chilean rap. — I.R.

Born David Sierra Treviño, Mexican rapper MC Davo became a referent within the underground local hip-hop scene with ingenuity. Performing in street rap battles for exposure, dropping bedroom-recorded tracks on MySpace as free downloads, independently releasing mixtapes just at 17 years of age, printing artwork and using social media as his central resource were all part of his unpremeditated strategy. The Nuevo León-born rapper’s effort amassed an organic fanbase which yielded a record deal with Warner Music Mexico in 2014, spurring his first top 10 on any Billboard albums chart when the full-length El Dominio debuted at No. 6 on Latin Rhythm Albums (peaking at No. 4) in late 2014. — P.B.

Ignacio José Fornés Olmo, better known by his stage name Nach, is often dubbed as the warrior of rhyme thanks to his 2005 song “El Camino del Guerrero.” With a heady discography that includes albums like 2003’s Poesía Difusa, 2008’s Un Día En Suburbia (which earned him a gold record in 2013), 2018’s Almanauta and more, he’s been praised for his ability to convey complex emotions through his canny verses, loaded with sincere social commentary; he’s also a sociologist and an author of two books, including 2019’s Silencios Vivos. This year, the Albacete rapper has been releasing a string of singles — including “Debería Vivir Siempre Así,” a sweeping orchestral rap ode about living authentically and free. — I.R.

Gera MX made chart history alongside Christian Nodal with “Botella tras botella” — the first regional Mexican song to enter the Billboard Hot 100 — but the Monterrey-born rapper and singer spent more than a decade exercising his unique wordplay in the rap scene. After spending the early days of his career freestyling, he has been perfecting his style. The Monterrey-born rapper/singer has been sharpening his flow after spending the early days of his career improvising. Influenced by hip-hop royalty such as Control Machete and Cartel de Santa, Gera MX scored his first big break when he joined rap collective Mexamafia. Since, he’s doubled down on writing unapologetic lyrics — and, today, while no longer part of Mexamafia, he’s considered one of the best rappers in Mexico. — GRISELDA FLORES

Originating from Caracas, Venezuela, Gabylonia (née María Gabriela Vivas Sojo) made a name for her socially conscious rap themes, which are as uplifting as they are intoxicating. Powered by old-school-styled hip-hop beats and thought-provoking lyrics, the rapper has often addressed issues of political corruption and police brutality, as evinced in her 2012 global breakthrough “Abuso de Poder.” A poet, her latest 2023 single “Tu F–kin’ Canción” demonstrates her impressive storytelling skills, with lyrics about longing for someone who is no longer present. —I.R.

With nearly three decades under his belt, Norick’s longevity is a testament to his talent and dedication. A founding member of the pioneering Peruvian hip-hop group Rapper School, the wordsmith (real name Braulio Norick Gamarra Guevara) has made a significant impact on the Latin rap arena, as his collective has served as a pillar for introducing hip-hop culture to the country early in his career. However, 2015’s Alma Corazón y Vida elevated his star power to international recognition, a true-to-rap album loaded with fervid reflection and fiery punchlines. Last month, Norick released his latest single “Meñiques,” an introspective song about the internal struggles between moving on and letting go of a romance. The MC is currently promoting a festival in his native Lima to celebrate 50 Years of Hip-Hop, taking place on August 12 and starring dozens of national and international genre acts.  —I.R.

Bocafloja possesses a loose canon for a mouth (like his stage name suggests), and he isn’t afraid to use it. In fact, he’s built a rep as an outspoken-yet-eloquent rapper, lyrically shattering controversial themes in imperialism and racism. Born Aldo Villegas in Mexico City, his music is often characterized by its socio-political commentary, while paired with jazz, funk, and soulful samples (Camilo Sesto, The O’Jays, and The Radiants, to name a few.) His potent discography has earned him several Indie-O awards in hip-hop/rap album of the year. His LP works consists of Cumbé (2006), Patologías del Invisible Incomodo (2012), Noor (2018) and more. Bocafloja, who’s also a scholar and a published author, is currently working on a new album called Después de Mañana via Altafonte (out Oct. 6). —I.R.

Wos began his freestyle career in the streets of Argentina. His slick improvisation skills and killer bars ultimately got him crowned the winner of renowned competitions such as El Quinto Escalón, FMS ARG, and Red Bull Batalla de Gallos. After stepping down from freestyle battles, he launched his debut studio album Caravana (2019) and later Oscuro Éxtasis (2021). In 2020, the Argentine rapper was nominated for best new artist at the Latin Grammys, and in 2022, he received three more noms: best rock song (“Que Se Mejoren”), best pop/rock song (“Arrancarmelo”) and best alternative song (“Culpa” in collaboration with Ricardo Mollo.) — J.R.

Rels B is a standout among the new wave of hip-hop artists coming from Spain. A bonafide rapper, Rels (a.k.a. SkinnyFlakk) — who has cited Eminem as his biggest lyricist inspiration — sticks out from the pack via his ultra-relatable lyrics and hooky melodies. As a producer, he’s crafted his own R&B, urban beats that serve as a canvas for his slick-yet-thought-provoking verses — as heard in “Mama & Prometida” from Boys Don’t Cry (2016), where he melodically raps about the hardships of life. “Boys don’t cry, they go out on the streets ready to fight/ The boys don’t cry, they want money, an opportunity,” he spits over a pulverizing beat. — G.F.

Known for his jaw-dropping freestyle stamina and dynamic flow, Arkano has received numerous accolades for his craft, including the international competition of Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos in 2015. The Alicante, Spain artist also took home a Guinness World Record for the longest freestyle rap on the planet, which he set in 2017 by rapping for over 24 hours straight. Over the years, he has collaborated with several prominent Spanish artists, including Rapsusklei and Kase.O, and released notable albums like MATCH (2022) and BIoluminiscenia (2017). — I.R.

With an extensive career trajectory that dates back to the late ‘90s, El Chojin has been flexing his hip-hop virtuosity, slyly navigating between conscious and comedy rap. In the early ’00s, he was part of the Spanish rap supergroup 995, also consisting of emcees Zatu, Zenit, Meko and Krazé. With roots in Equatorial Guinea, El Chojin has tackled topics like racism and immigration, as evinced in albums like El Ataque de los Que Observan (2011) and …Y el Último (2019). In 2006, the artist earned a Guinness World Record for most syllables rapped in one minute; 17 years later, he still holds that record. His latest album, Negro Oscuro, was released earlier this year. — I.R.

Myke Towers first learned to rap in the basketball courts of Rio Piedra (his hometown in Puerto Rico) and later took his talents to SoundCloud, where he quickly bubbled up. He debuted in 2016 with El Final del Principio, an all-rap album that peaked at No. 12 on Billboard’s Latin Rhythm Album Sales chart, but it was his more commercial sound that earned him his biggest hits — including “Si Se Da” with Farruko, “Bandido” with Juhn, “Ulala (Ooh La La)” with Daddy Yankee, and most recently, his viral smash “Lala.” Though Towers is experimental on his 2023 studio set La Vida es Una, his distinct, deep tenor vocals previously backed Lyke Mike, his 2021 hip-hop, trap and drill album. The set, which is an ode to basketball, el barrio and, his biggest inspiration, Michael Jordan, reached No. 3 on the Top Latin Albums chart. — J.R.

Taking cues from classic hip-hop (Ice T, Easy E, N.W.A) and Mexican nu-metal rap (Molotov, Sekta Core, Control Machete), Alemán’s uncanny style comes equipped with rebellious lyrics that reflect the struggles and debaucherous lifestyle of his generation. The Cabo San Lucas rapper’s repertoire is largely characterized by his raw lyrics that brim with mad attitude; look no further than his hundred-million-streaming tracks “Rucón” or “Mi Tío Snoop,” featuring none other than the Doggfather himself. — I.R.

Mexican rap veteran Serko Fu has been elevating Latin hip-hop culture to unfathomable heights, whether as a rapper, a judge in international freestyle competitions, or a host of them — he’s a true master of ceremonies. The Durango native has been active since the start of the new millennium, both with his rap collective Caballeros del Plan G and as a solo artist, gaining the respect of many (including hip-hop icons like Cypress Hill and Control Machete, who he’s collaborated with). In 2021, he dropped his latest release, Desde el Desnivel, and is currently working on a “Jazz & Flow” project alongside the National Jazz Orchestra of Mexico, gathering the most representative rappers and lyrical improvisers of the country, like Arianna Puello, Skool 77, Caballeros del Plan G, and more. — I.R.

Alcolirykoz is arguably the biggest hip-hop band hailing from Colombia, known for their elegant combination of rap with Latin and R&B rhythms in songs like 2018’s “La Típica,” 2022’s “El Remate” with Armando Hernández, and this year’s “Estereograma.” Formed in Medellín in 1999, they defined their current lineup — Gambeta, Kaztro and Fazeta — six years later. The trio has maintained a presence in the Latin rap scene in Colombia and beyond with multiple studio albums, from 2010 La Revancha de los Tímidos to 2021’s Aranjuez. — S.R.A.

Paulo Londra was just a teenager when he began freestyling in rap battles at plazas in his native Córdoba, Argentina; a community teeming with newcomer rap acts. The now-25-year-old has showcased the vulnerabilities of his generation with a progressive lyrical approach, earning a top 10 debut with maiden studio album Homerun on Billboard’s Latin Rhythm Albums chart (June 2019), followed by a best new artist of the year nomination at the Billboard Latin Music Awards in 2020. While his career was seemingly endangered for a two-year period, due to a legal battle with Colombian label Big Ligas, Londra has since inked a record deal with Warner Music Group which brought him back to the charts. He earned a top 10 entry on both Billboard Global surveys (and a return to Hot Latin Songs) with “Plan A,” which debuted on the charts in April 2022, and released a collaboration with global superstar Ed Sheeran (“Noche de Novela”) later that year. — P.B.

Villana Santiago Pacheco, known as Villano Antillano, has carved her way through the uncompromising world of Latin rap as the first commercial Latina trans rapper, brimming with confidence. Since the beginning of her career, she has been a trendsetter — pushing the boundaries of the status quo with fiery and digestible punchlines. This led her to break through on both Billboard Global charts via her first collaboration with Argentinian producer Bizarrap, “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 51” in 2022; on the Billboard Global 200, the team-up reached a No. 65 high, while on the Global Excl. U.S. chart it peaked at No. 36. The collab concurrently earned her a first top 10 on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 ranking that same year. — P.B.

Bolstered by her relentless and rapid-fire vocal delivery — which can occasionally turn smoky — Snow Tha Product is quickly establishing herself as a force in hip-hop. The Mexican-American rapper (born Claudia Alexandra Feliciano) spits sharp rhymes that boast of her badassery, while also using her platform to speak out against police brutality and immigration reform. Although she seamlessly raps in both English and Spanish, her Español verbiage and confidence easily turns heads. To date, she has released the EP Half Way There…Pt. 1 (2016) and full-length album To Anywhere (2022), and has achieved prominent Billboard chart placement on the Latin Digital Songs Sales chart, while her viral “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 39” also landed her on the Billboard Global Excl. US chart. She is currently touring the United States, opening up for Santa Fe Klan. — I.R.

Widely regarded as the leader of the booming Argentine trap scene, Duki is also one of the most successful artists of his country today. The reason for his growing global appeal? His raw authenticity is disarming, a vagabond with face tattoos, whose passionate flow charms with lyrics like “Un día prometimo’ que sería pa’ siempre/ La lealtad es algo que mucho’ no lo entienden/ Tal ve’ tú no te fuiste y yo tengo la suerte“, from “Antes de Perderte”. From viral freestyles to Billboard chart-topping hits, the prolific artist — who’s released seven studio albums since his 2019 debut Súper Sangre Joven, leading up to 2023’s Antes de Ameri — has carved out a successful path that few can match. When Duki announced his first U.S. tour earlier this year, he sold out multiple dates in less than 24 hours. The rapper — who claims influences from Eminem and Travis Scott — also sold out two stadiums in his native Buenos Aires, with over 150,000 tickets gone in a couple of hours, setting the record as the youngest Argentine artist to do so. — I.R.

Born José Luis Maldonado Ramos in Guadalajara, Jalisco, C-Kan released his first mixtape Get Money in 2006 — showcasing raw and hard-hitting lyrics that narrate life in the barrio. Inspired by acts such as Cypress Hill, C-Kan’s story-telling centers on drugs and gang violence, addressing social issues to create awareness. Sticking to realness paid off: C-Kan’s music videos have racked in millions on views on YouTube. — G.F.

While Arcángel is also known as an influential figure within the reggaetón space, the Puerto Rican artist has always been fundamentally a rapper. The New York-born, Puerto Rico-bred lyricist began pursuing a rap career in the early 2000, inspired by the likes of Tego Calderón and Tempo. He rose to prominence a few years later as one half of Arcángel and De La Ghetto, the pioneering rapper/singer urban duo, and soon after as a soloist with 2008’s El Fenómeno; the Luny Tunes-produced “Pa’ Que La Pases Bien,” from the album, continues to resonate today. His biggest impact, though, came in the mid 2010s, establishing himself as a leader within the Latin trap movement. With eight studio albums under his belt, including 2022’s Sr. Santos, Arcángel’s impact extends to his influence on subsequent generations of Latin artists, making him a revered figure in shaping the evolution of Latin trap. — I.R.

The iconic Mexican rap group stands as a pivotal act within the Latin rap landscape, making noise as part of the Avanzada Regia movement of Monterrey in the late 1990s. Currently comprised of rappers MC Babo and Mono and beatmaker Rowan Rabia, the group has effectively redefined the boundaries of Mexican hip-hop, infusing their music with a distinct fusion of humor, grit and witty observations. They remained active from their 2002 groundbreaking eponymous debut, up to their latest 2016 LP, Viejo Marihuano. By seamlessly blending regional Mexican influences with a hip-hop aesthetic, Cartel de Santa has cultivated a unique sonic identity that captures the essence of Mexican street culture. — I.R.

Though he passed away in 2015, Canserbero (real name: Tirone José González Orama) became one of the popular non-commercial rappers, and still remains one of the top references in Latin hip-hop culture today, inspiring artists like Myke Towers. The late Venezuelan rapper often penned dark lyrics based on violence in his country and real-life situations, and collaborated with artists such as Mala Rodríguez and Apache. Canserbero released two solo studio albums, Vida and Muerte, home to timeless tracks such as “Pensando en Ti,” “Es Épico” and “C’est La Mort.” — J.R.

With a trajectory that spans more than a decade, Akapellah (real name: Pedro Elias Aquino Cova) started off freestyling in the streets of his native Venezuela, before gaining notoriety for his raw and honest lyricism that often references social issues, keeping grounded while on the road to fame. The MC released his debut album Como Antes in 2012, honoring 90s rap greats like the Notorious B.I.G., but it wasn’t until 2021 that he obtained his first-ever Latin Grammy nomination for best urban music album, with his set Goldo Funky. The following year, his album RESPIRA was nominated in the same category. Both years he was also nominated for best rap/hip-hop song: “Condenados” (2021) and “Amor” (2022). This year he dropped two albums: Xtassy and 16 Millas. — J.R.

Tempo (real name: David Sánchez Badillo) began writing his first rap lyrics as a child. In 1994, he officially kicked off his music career, and in 1999 he released his debut studio album, Game Over. As one of the leading figures of the ‘90s and ‘00s rap movement in Puerto Rico, Tempo gained notoriety with his raw rap bars and tiraeras, and later became one of the first Latin rappers to sign a record deal with Sony Music Latin. In 2002, however, Tempo was arrested for alleged drug trafficking and was released in 2013 after the charges were not proven. While in prison, he released his album Free Tempo (2009), which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart. This year, the rapper and songwriter released “Me Rendí,” a song that reflects his connection with God, and “Perdóname Madre,” an ultra-personal track dedicated to his mother. — J.R.

Before Cosculluela voyaged the Hot Latin Songs chart with reggaetón hits such as “Te Busco” with Nicky Jam in 2015 and “Madura” with Bad Bunny in 2018, he established himself as a rapper by producing underground mixtapes with his brother Jamie. Throughout his career, the artist born José Fernando Cosculluela Suárez has also gained momentum with diss tracks to artists such as Tempo, Ñengo Flow, Anuel AA, and Residente — often winning the tiraeras. Coscu, who also goes by his alter ego Santa Cos, has earned two top 10 albums on Top Latin Albums: El Príncipe, which peaked at No. 3 in 2009, and BlancoPerla, landing at No. 2 in 2016. — J.R.

While closely associated with the world of reggaetón — he is, after all, signed to Rimas, the label that houses Bad Bunny — Carrión is first and foremost a hip-hop artist, who sits squarely in the juncture of American trap and hip-hop, with a Puerto Rican sensibility. Raised in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, Carrión is fully bilingual in language and in influences; he takes his cues equally from rappers like Lil’ Wayne and 50 Cent and reggaetoneros like Tego Calderón. It’s a tricky balance that few have attempted successfully, but which Carrión is navigating with ease (witness his latest set, 3MEN2 KBRN,) demonstrating Latin hip-hop can belong to two cultures and languages. — LEILA COBO

Rapper Angel Quezada draws his stage name from his barrio, Colonia Santa Fe in Guanajuato, Mexico — a town whose alleyways are ingrained in alternative corridos, estudiantinas, Mexican folk and a hip-hop subculture. The rapper cracked Billboard’s albums charts when his ninth-studio album, Mundo, debuted at No. 4 on Latin Pop Albums (Aug. 2022). The set relinquished the standard stereotype of the genre’s landscape as he juxtaposed his customary rap rhymes with more melodic tunes. “I wanted to show that an artist can do whatever he wants regardless of genres, and I wanted to do acoustic ballads because I wanted to connect even more with my fans,” he explained.— P.B.

Lápiz Conciente (born Avelino Junior Figueroa Rodríguez) pursued his rapping career underground—mainly from posting homemade videos of his rap competitions. Spitting bars about the barrio life (he was born in Los Mina, a sector in Santo Domingo) and hardships growing up, Lápiz ultimately dubbed himself El Papá del Rap Dominicano (The Father of Dominican Pap.) Throughout his career, he’s evolved into a more commercial sound, releasing more rhythmic tunes in line with reggaetón and dembow. He earned his first top 10 on a Billboard albums chart with Letras: The Album, which debuted and peaked at No. 2 on Latin Rhythm Albums in 2014. Two years later, his set Latidos peaked at No. 7 on Top Latin Albums. — J.R.

With her lyrics as bold as her personality, Mala Rodríguez began rapping in the late ‘90s, when she was just a teenager. At 17, she officially adopted her stage name, La Mala, since climbing the ranks of Spain’s thriving hip-hop scene. Throughout the years, the artist born María Rodríguez Garrido lent her fiery verses to songs alongside Nelly Furtado, Romeo Santos, Julieta Venegas, and Calle 13, all while keeping her unapologetic bars intact. In 2010, Mala became the first solo female artist to win the Latin Grammy for best urban song (“No Pidas Perdón”), and three years later, achieved the same in the best urban album category (Bruja). — J.R.

Cuban hip-hop duo Los Aldeanos have etched their names in the annals of music history with their incendiary rhymes, unflinching social critiques and revolutionary spirit. Rising from the vibrant streets of Havana, Al2 El Aldeano and El B carved a niche for themselves by lyrically tackling taboo topics, denouncing social injustices and political repression, igniting a fiery dialogue among their followers ever since 2003’s Censurados. Despite facing censorship and opposition from the Cuban government early in their career, Los Aldeanos remained unwavering, embodying the resilience and determination of their people. Independently, each rapper continued to expand their craft, with El Aldeano releasing 18 studio albums, and El B nine. The unflinching wordsmiths have remained an indomitable force in the world of Spanish-language rap, amplifying the unyielding spirit of Cuba. — I.R.

Born Mateo Palacios Corazzina in Buenos Aires, Trueno has positioned himself as one of the most notable rappers in Argentina. He first gained momentum in 2019 after being crowned champion of the Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos and the Freestyle Master Series, and has since dropped two studio albums, Atrevido (2020) and Bien o Mal (2022) — both of which showcase his love for old-school hip-hop and his politically charged and emotional lyrics on topics that hit home for him. Trueno has scored three entries on the Billboard Global 200 and the Billboard Global Exc. US charts, and is celebrating hip-hop’s 50th anniversary with the remix of his single “F–k El Police,” in collaboration with Cypress Hill. — J.R.

Control Machete from Monterrey, Nuevo León will go down in history as one of Mexico’s most influential and best rap groups of all time. Led by snarling rapper Pato Machete, the lyrics of the ’90s hip-hop act are blunt and vindictive — with a tad of comical irony — often protesting the gang violence and harsh reality faced by underserved communities in Mexico. Control Machete’s in-your-face and unapologetic power anthems, such as “Sí Señor” and “¿Comprendes, Mendes?” are now considered Mexican hip-hop classics. As a soloist, Pato Machete has continued his winning streak, boasting a confident flow, as demonstrated in his viral track “De Roll,” also starring rapper/singer Yoss Bones. — G.F.

Ivy Queen is the irrefutable Queen of Reggaetón — just go ahead and ask Siri (a reference to her latest single “Toma”). Standing as an emblematic figure in the realm of Latin music, La Reina has always showcased her exceptional talent and innovation as a rapper and artist since her emergence in the mid ‘90s, just when the term reggaetón was coined as a brand-new phenomenon. Her first hit was “Muchos Quieren Tumbarme,” as part of DJ Negro’s groundbreaking collective The Noise. As the first lady of the troupe and the booming scene, she fearlessly navigated the male-dominated landscape of hip-hop while breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings. Albums like Sentimiento (2007) and Drama Queen (2010), both which entered the Billboard 200, not only showcase her undisputed mastery of reggaetón, but also highlight her ability to blend rap elements with infectious melodies. Ivy Queen’s trailblazing spirit and genre-defying artistry warrant recognition not just as the Queen of Reggaetón, but as a true luminary in the pantheon of Latin rap, deserving of the highest accolades for her pioneering contributions to the Spanish-language rap movement. — I.R.

Before Aczino became a three-time champion of the prestigious international Batalla de los Gallos — the most titles of any competitor — the Mexico City MC was a tiradera pioneer in his native country. Reared in the graffiti-adorned neighborhood of Ciudad Nezahualcóyotl (or Cd. Neza, as locals call it), Aczino (real name: Mauricio Hernández González), who was into skate and graffiti culture, decided to dedicate himself to the freestyle art form after buying a pirated improvisational rap CD from the local tianguis in 2005. His battle rap skills skyrocketed, and he earned widespread recognition through various competitions — developing a reputation as one of the best freestylers of the Spanish-speaking world for his snarling comebacks. — I.R.

As a rapper and singer, Daddy Yankee has achieved a level of success that very few can dream of. The now-retired King of Reggaetón, who stated developing his style by fusing rap with dembow, has remained a force and an influence with a body of work that includes eight studio albums — which have sold over 11 million copies — and songs that range from urgent and shouty to playful and sweet. From the 2004 anthem “Gasolina” (included in his breakthrough album Barrio Fino) to his super-catchy rap verses in the 2017 mega-hit “Despacito” alongside Luis Fonsi (which spent 16 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and a whooping 56 atop the Latin Hot Songs chart), Yankee is one of those artists with the Midas touch, a true G.O.A.T. beloved both by fans and critics. — S.R.A.

Orishas, the Cuban group formed by Yotuel Romero, Ruzzo Medina and Roldán González, were not only arguably the original pioneers of Latin hip-hop when they formed in the mid 1990s, but they were certainly the first Latin hip-hop group to openly address racial identity and discrimination in their lyrics. Their international debut, 1999’s A Lo Cubano, was an intoxicating blend of raps and Cuban beats unlike anything heard in Latin music before. In mixing beats, bars and traditional sounds, Orishas created a blueprint that inspired generations of artists from all over the Latin world but has been hard to replicate; few hip-hop groups boast this degree of musicality. During their years together, Orishas have gone from eminently commercial to eminently social — a formula followed by Romero in his solo career, which in 2021 won him song of the year at the Latin Grammys for his galvanizing “Patria y Vida.” — L.C.

Accompanied by Caribbean percussion, muted trumpets and dramatic orchestrations, Calderón’s throaty, so-real-you-could-feel-them vocals heralded the possibilities for Latin hip-hop in “El Abayarde,” the 2003 single that introduced him to a mainstream audience: “Soy un demente de la escritura/ De donde viene mi sabrosura/ Me inculcaron semillita de esta cultura/ Desde la cuna, agradecido de esta negrura/ Con la soltura de mi flow, no hago travesuras,” he spits. El Abayarde, the album, also boasted party tracks like “Pa’ Que Retozen,” showing the depth and thrills that could coexist in a hip-hop album. In the subsequent El Enemy de los Guasíbiri (2004) and The Underdog (2006), Calderón continued to marry Puerto Rican traditions with Black pride — and yes, a spicy sense of perreo. Despite scant output in the last decade, perhaps no other Spanish-speaking rapper is as unapologetic, and yet as universally revered. — L.C.

Rising from the underground hip-hop scene of Santiago de Chile in the late ‘90s, first as an emcee in the group Makiza to achieving international stardom as a solo artist, Ana Tijoux’s accomplishments are as groundbreaking as they are diverse. Buoyed by her unmistakable velvety flow and potent rhymes, albums 1977 (2010), La Bala (2012), and Vengo (2014) have not only earned her prestigious accolades —all with placements on Top Latin Albums — but have also amplified her bold political messages and social commentary. She broke barriers as a female rapper in a predominantly male-dominated genre, back when female presence was rarer. The ferocious-yet-mellifluous flow of the French/Chilean poet carries an unapologetic spirit that has been nothing short of empowering, resonating with audiences worldwide. — I.R.

Vico C gained notoriety beyond his native Puerto Rico when, in the 2000s, already regarded as a founding father of Latin hip-hop, he became one of the few Puerto Rican urban acts to be signed and backed by a major Latin label. The reasons lay in impeccable musicality, versatility and heartfelt, socially conscious storytelling that earned him the moniker El Filósofo del Rap. “I do reggaetón, hip-hop, fusion, I deal with strong subjects and strong melodies,” Vico told Billboard nearly two decades ago. “Reggaetón is defined by a rhythm. A rhythm that I use. I don’t always use it. And I don’t use it the way most people do,” he added, voicing an outlier’s view of what the genre would become in terms of sexualized lyrics. All those years later, Vico C’s resolve hasn’t wavered. At 51, he released Pánico, his first album in over a decade, further solidifying the concept of hip-hop as a vehicle for discourse. — L.C.

René Pérez Joglar burst into the Latin music scene as one half of Calle 13, with the duo’s eponymous 2006 debut. The mix of urban and alternative was ostensibly reggaetón at a time when reggaetón was on the rise — but its witty, literary lyrics, electronic loops and acoustic percussion defied the genre. Nearly 20 years later, at the age of 45 years, Residente continues to defy genres. More so, his lyrical content has become more penetrating than before, transitioning from enfant terrible to master MC — a fascinating evolution to witness. Able to navigate between party fare, diss tracks, social commentary and even romance, there is no rapper more versatile than Residente, no rapper with a greater command of the Spanish language as a tool, as a weapon and as an effective instrument of change, via songs like “Latinoamérica”. Between his solo career and his work with Calle 13, Residente holds the record for most Latin Grammy wins, but the true barometer of his success is his ongoing, uncompromising eloquence. Even when we don’t agree with his rhymes, they command respect. — L.C.