At the close of 2024, the music scene has never been more vibrant, with top tracks and artists grabbing the spotlight across various genres. This year saw significant breakthroughs within Latin music, which continued to expand commercially and creatively. The transformation was clear, driven by innovative artists eager to explore diverse styles and collaborations.
The momentum of música mexicana remained formidable this year, captivating new fans worldwide. The genre's leading figures, such as Natanael Cano and Karol G, not only stuck to their roots but also ventured outside the box, attracting attention for their intentional stylistic shifts. Cano, widely credited as the creator of corridos tumbados, showcased his evolution as he opted for romantic themes with tracks like "Madonna," reflecting on love and success with lyrics inspired by his newfound fame.
On the other end of the spectrum, artists like Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso captivated audiences with their collaborative efforts. The duo brought humor and innovation to their performances, particularly with the infectious dance number "El Único". Their appearance on NPR's Tiny Desk grabbed the attention of many, highlighting their unique mixture of hip-hop and electronic influences.
This year, the title for TikTok’s top song globally went to "Gata Only" by Floyymenor and Cris MJ. Described as catchy and danceable, it encapsulated the spirit of Chilean reggaeton and marked its evolution on major music platforms. The song garnered immense popularity, effectively promoting the genre beyond its usual borders and making waves on streaming services.
Omar Apollo took listeners on an emotional ride with his heartbreaking track "Empty," showcasing vulnerability amid synth-pop soundscapes. This single from his album God Says No explored themes of love and loss, adding layers to Apollo's artistry and drawing listeners closer to his intimate storytelling.
The summer anthem from Karol G, titled "Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido," reminded fans of her unyielding ability to churn out relatable lyrics packed with nostalgia and longing. Featuring merengue influences, this track stood out among her roster, which included previous hits from her successful albums from 2023.
Year-end countdowns added to the thrill of 2024’s musical wrap-up. The "SiriusXM Galaxy 50" special featured heavy hitters like Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, and Kendrick Lamar, crafting playlists of the year's most played tracks across various channels. Hosted by breakout star Shaboozey, this electrifying countdown highlighted the most popular hits ranging from pop to country, illuminating the collective impact of diverse genres on audiences everywhere.
Yet the surprise of 2024 wasn't only from established stars. Emerging artists like TruththeBull made waves with tracks like "Hype Me Up," blending whimsical art with unique beats, securing their spot within the vibrant music culture. Other newcomers, such as Joel Cossette and Benjamin Tod, received recognition for their contributions to the emo and bluegrass scenes, respectively, with tracks offering fresh perspectives to familiar genres.
Meanwhile, veteran Clare Bowen released "The Coming," and the infectious energy of Nathy Peluso’s "La Presa" celebrated the depth of Latin music's roots, blending retro themes with contemporary vibes, ensuring the legacy of genres like salsa continues to thrive.
Becky G, who explored her música Mexicana roots, delved deep emotionally with "Otro Capitulo," expressing heart-wrenching lyrics about new beginnings and personal growth. The song alluded to the Queen of Tejano music, Selena, bridging the past with the present, and signaling Becky G's evolution as she prepared for her upcoming works.
The year also witnessed cross-genre collaborations upscale when Grupo Frontera teamed up with Maluma on "Por Que Sera," merging the traditional aspects of música Mexicana with contemporary pop influences, exemplifying the exciting outcomes of musical fusions.
Bad Bunny's long-awaited tracks continued to circulate through dance clubs, as songs like "El Clúb" reminded fans why he remains one of the foremost leaders of the reggaeton genre. His experimental soundscapes and engaging performances solidified his reign over global music charts once again this past year.
Rounding out the year were electrifying performances from Kid Cudi, whose "Electrowavebaby" unearthed nostalgic sampling, driving the crowds wild during live shows. Artists across the board experimented with genres previously assumed to be inflexible, pushing the boundaries of their craft, and inviting greater innovation for years to come.
With 2024 leaving behind monumental shifts across the music scene, fans eagerly anticipate what next year will bring. The articulation of emotion and creativity flows through each track released, showcasing artistry's resilience, adaptability, and the endless pursuit of musical excellence.