Latin House Music: The Art of Infusing Latin Flair
Latin House Music
What is it? And why is it so good?
Is it the sugar? Is it the spice?
Well, let us enlighten you. It’s just the right amount of sugar, spice, and everything nice.
The infusion of latin culture and sound into house music is none other the perfect recipe for an intoxicating genre that us house heads love.
Latin house music is a sub-genre of electronic dance music (EDM) that incorporates various elements of Latin music, such as rhythms, instrumentation, and vocal styles, into the structure and sound of house music. It's known for its lively and infectious beats, often featuring the following key characteristics:
Latin Rhythms: Latin house music typically incorporates rhythmic patterns inspired by various Latin American and Caribbean musical traditions, including salsa, merengue, cumbia, samba, and bossa nova. These rhythms can add a distinct and vibrant flavor to the music.
Percussion: The genre often includes a rich variety of percussion instruments, such as congas, bongos, and timbales. These instruments contribute to the energetic and rhythmic nature of Latin house tracks.
Vocals: Latin house may feature Spanish or Portuguese lyrics and vocal styles, and it often includes vocal samples that add a touch of authenticity to the music. The lyrics may convey themes related to love, celebration, or cultural pride.
Instruments: In addition to percussion, Latin house may incorporate other traditional instruments like trumpets, accordions, and acoustic guitars, blending them with electronic sounds and synthesizers.
Danceability: Like traditional house music, Latin house is highly danceable. Its infectious grooves and upbeat tempo make it well-suited for club environments and dance floors.
Fusion with Electronic Elements: Latin house fuses Latin musical elements with the electronic production techniques characteristic of house music, creating a dynamic and energetic fusion of genres.
Now that we’ve outlined the soundscapes of Latin house, it’s time to talk about our favorite DJ’s and producers who have truly mastered the entanglement of house and latin influence.
Jude & Frank
Born and raised in Rome, Jude & Frank has become one of the top masters at creating Latin and tech house tracks. In 2017, their hit “La Luna” reached #1 on Beatport overall chart and was played by artists worldwide.
Some of their top tracks that encapsulate what a hot and spicy Latin house track are as follows
“La Tarde”, “La candela viva”, “Pra Nao Dizer”, “Rio Rio”, and many many more where that came from.
If you’re looking for a hot latin banger, look no further than Jude & Frank
HUGEL
HUGEL is known as the “instigator” of the Latin House music movement. With his hit “Morenita”, the world went absolutely loco. Since then HUGEL has been focusing and curating his sound with heavy latin influences. And if you ask us, he truly has taken over the Latin house movement. It’s not something all artists can achieve, but HUGEL has got it down pat.
Some of his notable tracks are as follows
“Aguila”, “Marianela (Que Pasa)”, “Chakachaka”, “Pega”, “NaNa Djon”, and much more
Sllash & Doppe
DJ duo Sllash & Doppe have gained insane popularity in recent years - and rightfully so. The duo has released hot tracks under notable record labels. In April, they released their rendition of the classic tune from the Gypsy Kings, “Bamboleo”. Within the first few seconds of the track, you best believe the Latin groove is going to get you right out of your seat and dancing.
Their track “Aguella” has become a trademark sound that instantly riles up the crowd. We can’t tell you what it is, but Sllash & Doppe sure can with their magnetic musical sound
Dennis Cruz
Mr. Cruz, Spanish native, has made it evident and obvious that Latin house is a speciality of his. He has mastered not only the art of a pulsating house beat, but the incorporation of culture into his music. Cruz continuously experiments with new sounds but always remains loyal to his native roots.
Some honorable mentions are “El Sueno”, “Galactica”, “UNA RUMBITA”, “Los Tamales”, “El Puma”, and an entire long discography more to listen to.
Sparrow & Barbossa
DJ duo Sparrow & Barbossa have experienced with all sorts of sub-genres within house music. They have created tracks that fall under the top charts of afro-house music, but they’re especially gifted at mixing in the Latin vibes we all know and love.
Their track “Morena” is a perfect example that captures their sound. This track features seductive vocals with the perfect beat and instrumentation that transports us into the Latin realm.
Their music guarantees you to dance without asking for permission. When a beat is that good, your body will know it.
Of course, there are numerous more worthy mentions, but that’s why we have curated this playlist, specifically tailored to your Latin needs - Music & Money: Latin House (Spotify Playlist)
This playlist captures the phenomenal sound of Latin infused house music. Featuring the artists we know and love, and some more who deserve some more recognition.
Latin house has gained popularity worldwide due to its ability to bridge cultural gaps and create a festive and inclusive atmosphere on dance floors. It has also evolved over the years, with different artists and producers adding their unique touches and influences, making it a diverse and exciting sub-genre within the electronic dance music landscape.
We cannot wait to listen to what else these artists have in store and see what new artists will come along and shape the Latin house genre even more.
