Rhythms: From traditional to Latin pop for Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the vibrant cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. In Chicago, this celebration takes on a special flair thanks to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the CSO Latino Alliance. The Alliance plays a key role in bringing people together through the power of music and revitalizing the classical music scene with concerts, educational programs and community outreach. At Latino Alliance events, the magic of classical music bridges cultural and linguistic gaps, strengthening community bonds.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m thrilled to share a curated Spotify playlist that bridges generations — connecting our parents and our kids, Latino Gen Zs. My father, who passed away in August, had an unwavering passion for music. He filled our home with classical melodies, often singing or pretending to conduct, making every moment a celebration of life. His love for music became a cornerstone of our family’s identity. In that same spirit, I turn to the CSO and its Latino Alliance, which harnesses the power of music to unite, inspire and create lasting memories. Now, my son fills our home with his own musical choices whenever he is home from college, so I’ve included tracks that resonate with his generation, too.

For this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month, I invite you to immerse yourself in this playlist that bridges generations and celebrates our vibrant musical heritage. Dive into these diverse genres with a Latin heart and let the rhythms inspire you!

• 1. Danzón No. 2 by Arturo Márquez: A vibrant composition that captures the essence of Mexican dance traditions, much like the lively tunes our father would dance to with such enthusiasm.
• 2. Malambo from Estancia Suite by Alberto Ginastera: An evocative suite blending Argentine folk rhythms and dances, reminiscent of the passionate music that filled our home.
• 3. Mambo from West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein: This iconic piece celebrates the mambo’s infectious energy, a nod to the dance moves that brought so much joy to our family.
• 4. La noche de los Mayas by Silvestre Revueltas: A powerful work incorporating Mexican folk elements, reflecting the deep cultural connection that our parents cherished.
• 5. La zandunga from Caballos de Vapor (Horsepower) by Carlos Chávez: An arrangement for voices and orchestra of a lively and rhythmic movement from Chávez’s ballet symphony that fuses traditional Mexican dance rhythms with modern, energetic flair.
• 6. Suite Popular Brasileña by Heitor Villa-Lobos: Featuring Brazilian folk tunes and rhythms, this suite captures the lively spirit of Latin America, akin to the vibrant music that was an integral part of our lives.
• 7. Huapango by José Pablo Moncayo: A vibrant and exhilarating orchestral piece that masterfully blends Mexican folk rhythms with classical sophistication.

My Spotify playlist of Gen Z Latino favorites is a dynamic mix that fuses traditional Latin American rhythms with cutting-edge production, creating a soundscape that’s as vibrant as it is timeless. These tracks, often on repeat by my college students, pulse with energy and emotion, capturing the essence of contemporary Latin culture. They resonate deeply with Gen Z, transcending cultural boundaries and offering something for everyone, whether you’re rooted in Latino heritage or simply love a good beat.

• 8. “Taki Taki” by DJ Snake ft. Selena Gomez, Ozuna & Cardi B: This song blends reggaeton with pop and features a catchy beat that’s great for dancing.
• 9. “Bichota” by Karol G: Karol G is a prominent figure in Latin trap and reggaeton, and “Bichota” is a high-energy track that showcases her powerful style.
• 10. “Hawái” by Maluma: With its smooth reggaeton rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, this song has gained popularity among younger audiences.
• 11. “Dákiti” by Bad Bunny & Jhay Cortez: This track fuses reggaeton with a more atmospheric sound, reflecting the current trend of blending genres.
• 12. “Pepas” by Farruko: A high-energy reggaeton anthem that has been very popular in clubs and on streaming platforms.
• 13. “La Canción” by Bad Bunny & J Baldwin: This song combines melancholic lyrics with reggaeton rhythms, creating a unique listening experience.
• 14. “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee: Although it’s a bit older, its influence continues to be felt, and it remains a staple in Latin-inspired pop.
• 15. “Llegaste Tú” by Luis Fonsi and Juan Luis Guerra is a soulful duet that blends smooth Latin rhythms with heartfelt lyrics, creating a captivating celebration of love and connection.

These tracks showcase a thrilling blend of traditional Latin rhythms and modern influences, crafting a vibrant soundscape that’s all the rage with Gen Z. Dive into both classic hits and the latest Latino-influenced tracks to connect with this lively young generation. While you might recognize some timeless classics, exploring the newest tunes can offer fresh insights and enhance your musical appreciation.

Finally, I’m excited to share the curated Spotify playlist from last year’s Hispanic Heritage Month. It offers a dynamic mix of classical, traditional, and contemporary tracks that deliver a timeless and captivating listening experience. Dive in and celebrate our vibrant heritage!