Music en Espanol 

Marissa Quiroga

Music Journalist

As we enter September, we begin to celebrate the diversity, perseverance, and innovation of Hispanic culture by devoting the entire month to commemorating heritage. By honoring its beautiful history, we are recognizing the significance of Latin rock and the impact it continues to have.  

The global hit song “La Bamba” by Richie Valens inspired a cultural shift in rock music. This song established belonging in global rock and spotlighted Latino voices in a genre that had been overlooked. This opened the door for musicians to redefine the term “rock”. The following bands have become a symbol of culture and identity that shaped music for generations. If these bands aren’t on your playlist yet, it’s time to hit play. 

 Rayando el Sol – Maná 

Forming in 1981, Maná has become one of the most influential bands originating from Guadalajara, Mexico. With a voice so recognizable, lead singer Fher Olvera’s raw and passionate sound captured the attention of many fans. The band curated a mix of Latin pop, progressive rock, calypso, reggae, and ska. Rayando el sol expresses the frustration Olvera’s feelings of unrequited love. Conveying how it’s easier to reach the sun than their love’s heart.  

Lamento Boliviano- La Enanitos Verdes 

Los Enanitos Verdes emerged in the late 1970s, under an Argentinian dictatorship. Within those years, the band’s goal was to uplift the residents of Argentina by sharing music that sounded more optimistic. The band’s popularity spread fast with their harmonious sound and catchy lyrics. The traditional quena opens the hit song, Lamento Boliviano by, infusing South American roots. The use of rock and native melodies created a sound that remains timeless.  

Rosas- La Oreja de Van Gogh  

Coming out of San Sebastian, Spain, La Oreja de Van Gogh rose to fame in the late 1990s. The original band members met at the University of the Basque Country where they began covering popular rock bands before meeting their current lead singer, Amaia Montero. Her warm, melodic voice brought a perfect sound to the pop rock style they intended. Rosas paints a picture of a universal message of holding onto memories of someone who may never return.  

 Eres – Café Tacuba  

A group of college students in Mexico City formed a band in their garage in the late 1980s.  Their style drew inspiration from 80s alternative bands like The Cure, The Smiths, and The Clash, while also incorporating their cultural roots.  Eres is a song that captures the essence of a lover, from lead singer Rubén Albarrán’s perspective.  The translation “you are” is a fitting title that reflects a love letter.