For as long as humanity has existed, music has been a fundamental means of self-expression. Cultures across the globe create and share music. Whether we are dancing to our favorite song, crying to a heartfelt ballad or simply relaxing to a mellow tune, music is a constant in our lives. Think back to some of your core memories: having your first crush, getting your first job or spending time with loved ones. You can probably tie back any of those moments to a song.
Creating connections between memories and music forms a soundtrack that reminds people of the important times in their lives. Studies have shown that from birth, our brains remember melodies. Neuroimaging research, for example, states that songs can stimulate certain areas of the brain and produce rushes of dopamine.
If you’re looking to unlock some hidden memories or simply recall the good times, we have you covered! Our editors curated a list of favorite nostalgia tracks by Latin American singers, reuniting some of the songs that left a lasting impact across the Americas.
“Mis Ojos Lloran Por Ti” by Big Boy and Angel Lopez
At just 21 years old, Puerto Rican artist Big Boy released “Mis Ojos Lloran Por Ti” (My Eyes Cry For You). A popular urban music anthem — to this day, many Latin music lovers regard this song as a quintessential playlist addition — this 1996 track features fast rapping intertwined with smooth vocals by artist Angel Lopez (Son By Four).
The emotional lyrics, combined with the fast-paced rapping — often compared to a tongue twister — make “Mis Ojos Lloran Por Ti” a song most Latin American people know by heart and will never fail to sing along. “I think the rap portion makes it quite unforgettable and iconic,” says EnVi En Español’s editor Mayra (May) Peralta. “People on the internet often joke that learning this song’s lyrics is the equivalent of learning the multiplication tables. You learn them and you never forget.”
“Llora Alma Mía” by Yoskar Sarante
EnVi’s next pick is the bachata track “Llora Alma Mía” by late Dominican singer Yoskar Sarante. The single captures a perfect summer day by the beach with its tropical and upbeat melody. Channeling the same idea, the music video portrays Yoskar Sarante performing on a sandy beach.
For many, bachata songs like “Llora Alma Mía” are tied to cherished moments with loved ones. EnVi‘s PR Manager Tatyana Hernandez, for example, notes how the song brings up family memories. “My dad was a musician, “Llora Alma Mía” is one of the songs he used to practice with,” she recalls.
The combination of Yoskar Sarante’s voice, the heartfelt lyrics and the catchy melody easily transport listeners back to those sunny days portrayed in the music video. If you feel like looking back at the past during the late summer days, this 2000s track is the perfect tune to play by the pool or as you walk on the beach.
“La Quiero a Morir” by DLG (Dark Latin Groove)
Released in 1997, “La Quiero a Morir” is a tropical music cover of French singer Francis Cabrel’s “Je l’aime à mourir.” The lyrics express an intense profession of love for a romantic partner. Through the use of imagery, this powerful declaration of love tells the story of an individual who was changed by love. The song’s music video portrays the same intensity with a look at DLG – a salsa band that mixes salsa, reggaeton, and hip-hop — performing on stage and spending time with their loved ones.
This track helps highlight the power of music and “how it transcends cultures and generations,” says EnVi En Español’s editor. May shares memories of her grandad listening to the original song and her older sister later enjoying DLG’s reprisal.
“Afuera” by Caifanes
“Afuera” by Mexican rock band Caifanes was released in 1994, garnering immense popularity not only in Latin America but also in the United States. With growing recognition, Caifanes was invited to perform on MTV Unplugged, becoming the first Mexican rock group to achieve this milestone. After their career took off, the band went on to achieve plenty of accomplishments and even opened for concerts for The Rolling Stones.
“Afuera” features Caifanes’ signature guitar riff and a solo by artist Alejandro Marcovich. With lyrics that delve into the duality of human existence, “Afuera” is arguably, “one of the most iconic Latin rock songs to exist,” as per EnVi En Español’s editor.
“Atrévete-Te-Te” by Calle 13
Recorded by Puerto Rican duo Calle 13 — composed of step-brother duo Residente and Visitante — “Atrévete-Te-Te” is a Grammy-nominated song released in 2006. The song gained popularity across the globe, becoming one of Calle 13’s most notable works. In “Atrévete-Te-Te,” Calle 13, whose diverse discography and cleverly explicit lyrics are highly praised, combines Latin American rhythms such as cumbia and reggaeton. Furthermore, the use of “Spanglish” resonated with both English and Spanish speakers.
Sofia Briones, EnVi En Epañol’s writer, recalls the song’s fast-paced and catchy lyrics, with memories of the music video, which featured Marilyn Monroe look-alikes. The video clip was so popular throughout the Americas that it even won the Latin Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video in 2006.
“Lento” by Julieta Venegas
“Lento” by Mexican American singer Julieta Venegas is a 2004 pop song that belongs to Venega’s third studio album, Sí. Evoking nostalgia for many listeners, “Lento” stands out with a sweet melody and catchy harmonization in the chorus. The song is also one of Venegas’ best-known tracks and one of her first singles to top music charts.
“[It] makes me want to drive on a sunny day with the windows down!” says Tatyana of the iconic track, which is considered one of the best Latin songs of the 2000s. Venega’s tender voice, the song’s soothing flow and heartfelt lyrics often transport listeners to simpler times, bringing memories of love and youth.
The music video, filmed in Tokyo, features Julieta and her twin sister Yvonne enjoying the sights and beauties of Japan. The video clip captures a carefree energy and currently holds over 80 million views.
“Fico Assim Sem Você” by Adriana Calcanhotto (Originally recorded by Claudinho & Buchecha)
Originally performed by Claudinho & Buchecha, “Fico Assim Sem Você” will make you feel like you’re walking on sunshine. The Brazilian song’s soft melody and soothing tone will make any memory transform into a vivid dream. Brazilian singer-songwriter Adriana Calcanhotto, known for her melancholic sound and creative concept albums, is responsible for the MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) version of the song in this list.
EnVi’s writer and junior managing editor, Valentina Reni notes an emotional connection to the song as it reminds her of childhood. “I grew up with this song and nowadays I can’t listen without getting emotional,” she says. “ I think many people associate this song with loved ones.”
“Rosa Pastel” by Belanova
Telling a story of failed romance and nostalgia, “Rosa Pastel” is a song by Mexican band Belanova, released in 2006. The group — consisting of Denisse Guerrero, Edgar Huerta, and Ricardo “Richie” Arreola — came together in 2000 in Guadalajara, Mexico. Experiencing success in the early 2000s catapulted the band into the world of fame and music relevance. Their songs were featured in various soundtracks, including the Latin American release of High School Musical, where they recorded a Spanish version of Sharpay and Ryan’s “What I’ve Been Looking For.”
“Rosa Pastel” is one of Belanova’s most representative tracks. Sofia highlights her love for the sweet but futuristic song, stating that it transports her back to her childhood.
During the past year, “Rosa Pastel” experienced a resurgence on TikTok. The song became a viral hit on the platform through a challenge, where users opened up about their unfulfilled dreams. The idea was to show the stark difference between people’s expectations when they were younger versus the reality they faced when they grew older.
Our playlist doesn’t stop here! If you’re looking to dive into the world of Latin nostalgia, be sure to check out other timeless tracks by Latin stars such as Juan Luis Guerra, Shakira and the legendary Mexican band Café Tacvba. Each song is a trip down memory lane, resurfacing some memories that have shaped our lives. Whether you’re reliving your favorite moments or discovering some new classics, our playlist is the one for you!
Want to read more about Latin American music, cinema, fashion and culture? Check out EnVi En Español here.
