The Latin Surge

Recorded-music revenue in Latin America increased by 31.2% in 2021, its 12th consecutive year of growth and one of the highest rates globally, according to the annual Global Music Report released in March by IFPI.

Were it not for currency devaluation, the region would account for an even higher share of global revenue.

The IFPI also reports on the surge in digital consumption of music in Latin territories. Streaming accounted for 85.9% of the market, one of the highest proportions in any region.

The growth is driven by the strength of the region’s artists, including several major superstars, and outsized streaming rates compared with other regions.

For a snapshot of that talent, Billboard highlights some of the most influential talents in Spain, which, bound by language with Latin America, is both a source and destination for music in Spanish; Portuguese-speaking Brazil, which is the largest Latin American territory (by recorded-music revenue); and the Latin markets of Mexico, Argentina and Colombia.

SPAIN

C. Tangana SONY Aitana UNIVERSAL Alejandro Sanz SONY

BRAZIL

The Barons of Pisadinha

SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT BRAZIL Gustavo Lima SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT BRAZIL

Marília Mendonça SOM LIVRE Jorge & Mateus SOM LIVRE Henrique & Juliano

VIDA NOVA/VIRGIN MUSIC

ARGENTINA

Tiago PZK WARNER BZRP DALE PLAY/SONY Tini SONY

Maria Becerra 360 Duki DALE PLAY/SONY L-Gante WARNER

COLOMBIA

J Balvin UNIVERSAL Maluma SONY Karol G UNIVERSAL Camilo SONY Blessd WARNER

MEXICO

Luis Miguel WARNER Christian Nodal UNIVERSAL/SONY

Dana Paola UNIVERSAL Banda MS SONY

Grupo Firme MUSIC VIP ENTERTAINMENT