Karol G, Shakira, Peso Pluma Feature in The New York Times' 2023 List of Top Albums and Songs

MIAMI - Karol G, Shakira, and Peso Pluma are the Latino artists featured in the New York Times' Top lists for Best Songs and Best Albums of 2023. Compiled by critics Jon Pareles, Jon Caramanica, and Lindsay Zoladz, the list also includes the works of Natanael Cano, Yahritza y su Esencia, Kali Uchis, Chino Pacas and Ice Spice.

These musicians, whose work spans from reggaeton and Latino R&B to corridos tumbados and Mexican urban music, have not only captured the essence of Latin music but also influenced the global landscape.

Jon Pareles' Selections

His list is a testament to the diversity and talent in the Latin music industry. At the forefront for Latinos is Colombian super star Karol G with her album "Mañana Será Bonito," ranked second best album of the year, according to Jon Pareles. This album is a soulful mix of emotional depth and genre versatility, making it a standout in the global pop arena.

Bizarrap & Shakira's iconic collaboration, "BZRP Music Sessions #53," lands at number eight in his list of best songs. "This track features Shakira's iconic vocals and Bizarrap's masterful production, creating a powerful revenge anthem, writes Pareles. His list also highlights the heartfelt collaboration of Yahritza y Su Esencia and Grupo Frontera with their song "Frágil," ranked sixth. This cumbia track eloquently expresses the emotional turmoil of a heartless partnership.

Jon Caramanica's Diverse Choices

Caramanica's choices reflect the evolving landscape of Latin music. The seventh spot of his best album list went to Peso Pluma's "Génesis," a groundbreaking work that fuses traditional Mexican music with modern hip-hop influences. To the critic, this album symbolizes a new era in Mexican urban music.

Additionally, Jon Caramanica acknowledges Ice Spice's EP "Like..?" at the second position. Her unique style blends drill and pop, making her as a significant figure in the industry.

Among the Latino work also featured in Caramanica's list of best songs are "Johnny Dang", by That Mexican OT ft. Paul Wall and Drodi, and Chino Pacas' "El Gordo Trae el Mando". Argentinian artist Emilia's "GTA.mp3" also received a special mention.

Lindsay Zoladz's Eclectic Mix

Her selection, although more diverse in genres, only included one Latino content in the list of best songs for the year: it was "Fallout" by You La Tengo.

However, the inclusion of these Latino artists in the New York Times' best albums and songs goes beyond mere recognition. It underscores the profound impact of Latin music on the global stage.

Artists like Karol G, Shakira, Peso Pluma, Yahritza y Su Esencia, Kali Uchis, Bizzarap, and Ice Spice represent the dynamic and evolving nature of this genre. Their contributions, characterized by unique rhythms, compelling narratives, and genre-blending sounds, have captivated audiences worldwide and paved the way for future innovations in music.