Every month, the dedicated editors at Billboard Latin and Billboard Español meticulously sift through a wealth of musical talent to identify the "diamonds in the rough"—emerging artists poised to make a significant impact on the mainstream music landscape. These rising stars, though not yet household names, possess a captivating sound and an undeniable potential that warrants the attention of discerning music lovers. The latest edition of Billboard’s "On the Radar" Latin program shines a spotlight on a vibrant cohort of artists who recently graced the stages and halls of the 2026 Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami. This pivotal industry event, held from October 19th to 22nd at the prestigious Faena Forum in Miami Beach, served as a vibrant incubator for new talent, offering these artists a platform to showcase their artistry and connect with industry professionals.
The 2026 Billboard Latin Music Week underscored the dynamic evolution of Latin music, a genre that continues to break global barriers and innovate across diverse sonic landscapes. This year’s iteration brought together a formidable array of artists, executives, and fans, fostering an environment ripe for discovery and collaboration. The programming typically includes a comprehensive slate of panels, workshops, networking events, and live performances, all designed to celebrate and propel Latin music forward. For emerging artists, participation in such a high-profile event is often a watershed moment, providing invaluable exposure and opportunities to forge critical industry connections. The artists featured in this "On the Radar" selection are a testament to the rich tapestry of talent being cultivated across Latin America and beyond, each bringing a unique perspective and sound to the global music conversation.
ANASOF: A Mexican Polymath Blending Genres
Name: ANASOF
Country: Mexico
ANASOF, a prodigious singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Oaxaca, Mexico, has rapidly emerged as one of the most compelling and innovative voices in the contemporary Mexican pop scene. Her musical tapestry is woven from an eclectic array of genres, seamlessly integrating urban beats, pop sensibilities, regional Mexican influences, alternative rock, and even the timeless romance of bolero. This genre-bending approach is complemented by lyrical content that navigates the spectrum from profound existential ponderings to whimsical narratives filled with humor and strikingly original imagery. Beyond her performance prowess, ANASOF has established herself as a sought-after songwriter, crafting hits for established artists such as Adriel Favela, Camila Fernández, and Mar Lucas, demonstrating a mature understanding of musical architecture and commercial appeal.
Her sophomore studio album, Preciosa, released in 2025 under Universal Music México, further solidified her distinctive sound, a captivating equilibrium between delicate vulnerability and unyielding strength. Prior to this, her 2024 album, TODO (y nada), yielded fan favorites like "Las Fotos de la Playa" and "SOY." In a significant international recognition, ANASOF garnered global attention in the current year with her Spanish-language rendition of The Cranberries’ iconic hit, "Dreams." This cover was notably included on a deluxe edition of the legendary Irish band’s seminal album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?, a testament to her interpretive skill and the universal appeal of her voice.
Her recent output continues to showcase her artistic evolution. Following the release of the romantic pop anthem "Tú, mi bb," ANASOF dropped "Palomitas en la muela" earlier this month. This track delves into the exhilarating and often chaotic unpredictability of human existence, a theme resonating deeply with contemporary audiences. Her participation in the Billboard Latin Music Week showcases, presented by peermusic at the Faena Theater, alongside fellow emerging artists ISADORA and Pututi & Nesty, provided a crucial platform for her to connect with a wider audience and industry tastemakers. This engagement at one of the industry’s premier events signals a pivotal moment in her trajectory.
Song for Your Playlist: "Palomitas en la muela"
TINNA: From Fashion Icon to Musical Force
Name: Agustina “TINNA” Bruenner
Country: Argentina
Agustina Bruenner, more widely recognized by her artistic moniker TINNA, is a multifaceted talent whose presence has already captivated audiences beyond the music realm. Many may recognize her from her starring role as the lead model in the music video for Grupo Firme and Ricardo Arjona’s collaboration, "Amor Fortuna." In the visual narrative, her striking blue-eyed gaze, distinctive blonde hair, and undeniable beauty command attention, positioning her as the undeniable focal point. However, TINNA’s talents extend far beyond the confines of the camera lens. This accomplished model, originally from Misiones, Argentina, is now embarking on a bold and promising journey into the world of music, demonstrating a profound artistic vision.
With an authentic and empowering artistic ethos, TINNA explores the fusion of contemporary pop sounds with subtle yet impactful hints of flamenco. Her debut single, "Pasarela," serves as a powerful introduction to her musical identity, signaling the commencement of a career dedicated to unveiling new emotional depths and sonic textures within Latin music. Her foray into music is not merely an artistic pursuit but a deliberate expansion of her creative expression, leveraging her established visual appeal to enhance her auditory offerings. The success of "Pasarela" indicates a strong listener reception to her unique stylistic blend.
Song for Your Playlist: "Pasarela"
Kri Blandon: The Ethereal Voice Reimagined
Name: Kri Blandon
Country: Nicaragua
Kri Blandon, a native of Matagalpa, Nicaragua, possesses a vocal instrument often described as angelic—velvety, sweet, and profoundly ethereal. Her musical journey began over a decade ago, marked by her distinctive approach to uploading acoustic guitar covers of popular reggaetón hits on social media. This early digital presence cultivated a dedicated online community, drawing admiration and reposts from prominent artists such as Karol G, Chyno y Nacho, Juanes, and Baby Rasta & Gringo, among others. Such early validation from established figures underscored the nascent potential of her talent.
Further testament to her early promise, Blandon served as the opening act for a private Juanes event in Miami during the nascent stages of her career. After a period of intentional hiatus to refine her artistry and explore different creative avenues, the Miami-based Nicaraguan singer is now making a significant return with her original music. Her debut single, the Afrobeats-infused pop track "Adictivo," has garnered considerable attention, and she is poised to release a promising EP that is highly anticipated by her growing fanbase. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Blandon holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Akron, a testament to her strategic acumen. She is now fully immersed in her music career, having recently attended her inaugural Billboard Latin Music Week to network with peers and deepen her understanding of the music industry’s intricacies. Her return signifies a deliberate and strategic re-entry into the competitive music landscape.
Song for Your Playlist: "Adictivo"
Kakush: A Folk-Rock Bard with a Global Reach
Name: Kakush
Country: Argentina
Kakush initially commands attention with his striking retro aesthetic—his signature long hair and beard, coupled with a distinctive hat and ensemble, evoke a timeless artist persona. However, it is his captivating sound that truly enchants: a sophisticated blend of ’60s and ’70s rock and folk, infused with a distinctive Latin American and Caribbean flair. His songs are deeply rooted in compelling storytelling, delivered in both Spanish and English, encompassing a repertoire of both original compositions and carefully chosen covers.
Currently based in New York City, the Argentine singer-songwriter and producer honed his craft as a busker before gaining national recognition on La Voz Argentina. During his tenure on the popular talent show, he achieved a remarkable "four-chair turn" with his rendition of Cat Stevens’ "Father and Son," ultimately joining coach Lali’s team. As an artist represented by CROING agency and recently signed to Warner Chappell Music for global music publishing administration, Kakush has also lent his production talents to other artists, including contributing to Joaquina’s track "Ya No Estoy."
His upcoming release, "El Pibe," scheduled for November 6th, is described as a Latin rock anthem infused with salsa rhythms and evocative guitar melodies reminiscent of Carlos Santana. Kakush elaborates on the song’s inspiration: "’El Pibe’ is basically my life philosophy, with a little shamelessness thrown in," he shared with Billboard. "I wrote it thinking back to when I first started making a living playing music on the street. I asked my dad to buy me my first speaker so I could go out and play, and he did. That one decision took me to places I’d always dreamed of, and I’m still dreaming." The single will be accompanied by Las Canciones Que Canta El Pibe, a comprehensive 28-track album featuring stripped-down renditions of songs Kakush performed throughout his busking career. He is also actively working on his forthcoming studio album, titled Los Rugidos del Mundo. This dual release strategy highlights his prolific output and his commitment to showcasing different facets of his artistry.
Song for Your Playlist: "This crazy Rock & Roll dream"
Camila Ramón: From Fitness Guru to Chart Aspirant
Name: Camila Ramón
Country: Argentina
Camila Ramón initially rose to prominence as a highly influential Peloton instructor, widely recognized as the first brand instructor to offer classes in both Spanish and English across both the bike and tread platforms. With notable guests such as Feid, Yailin La Más Viral, T-Pain, and Lil Jon participating in her sessions, the Argentine-born, Miami-raised personality has adeptly bridged the worlds of Latin music and the fitness industry. Now, she is pursuing her lifelong ambition of becoming a recording artist.
Ramón made her official singing debut in 2025 with the release of her single, "No Hay Fotos." Her energetic persona, strong Latina identity, and bold charisma, which captivated audiences during her Peloton episodes, translate seamlessly into her music, offering a relatable and engaging artistic experience. Her discography, including tracks like "Inténtalo," "24/7," and her most recent single, "Cuando Mañana Coincidimos," showcases her versatility across genres ranging from pop and electronic to reggaetón. Having made her debut on the blue carpet at the Billboard Latin Music Awards this year, Ramón is actively immersing herself in the Latin music industry, signaling a significant commitment to her burgeoning musical career.
Song for Your Playlist: "24/7"
Pepe Walker: The "Norteño Light" Innovator
Name: Pepe Walker
Country: Mexico
Pepe Walker distinguishes himself in the contemporary music scene through his commitment to simplicity and authenticity. In an era where many young artists embrace ostentatious personas, Walker opts for a more understated approach, reflected in his personal image, his heartfelt love-themed lyrics, and a sound he aptly describes as "norteño light." This unique musical style artfully blends traditional norteño elements with influences from cumbia, country, and even tex-mex, positioning him as a fresh and innovative voice within the Mexican music landscape.
Hailing from the state of Hidalgo in central Mexico, rather than the northern regions traditionally associated with prominent regional mexicano stars, Walker has strategically leveraged his songwriting talent to connect with and craft music for some of today’s most popular artists, including Natanael Cano, Gabito Ballesteros, and Oscar Maydón. Notably, he is the creative mind behind the globally successful track "Perlas Negras."
After a period of patient anticipation, Walker has now stepped into the spotlight as a vocalist, releasing his album Ruta 77 under the independent label Golden Ink Entertainment. His music, characterized by compelling melodies, romantic lyrics penned in a contemporary vernacular, and a distinctive vocal delivery, marks him as an emerging artist worthy of significant attention. His ability to blend established regional genres with modern sensibilities offers a unique appeal to a broad audience.
Song for Your Playlist: "Lo Que Sea Contigo"
Daniela Darlin: A Multi-Talented Force of Nature
Name: Daniela Darlin
Country: Cuba
Daniela Darlin represents a formidable force in the music industry, showcasing a remarkable range of talents that include singing, dancing, and professional saxophone playing. For over a decade, this Cuban-born artist has captivated audiences across Europe and the United States with her exceptional abilities, performing at renowned festivals and cultural events. Beyond releasing her own music, which skillfully laces tropical rhythms with urban and pop sensibilities, Darlin is also the founder and bandleader of the all-female ensemble, Sandungueras Band. What is particularly noteworthy about Darlin, despite her extensive experience in the music industry, is her unwavering commitment to continuous artistic growth. Her active presence at both the Latino Music Conference in August and the 2026 Billboard Latin Music Week earlier this month highlights her dedication to expanding her network and refining her craft.
Song for Your Playlist: "Achè"
CONOSUR: Chilean Rock Reimagined with Modern Flair
Name: CONOSUR
Country: Chile
Nicolás “Dubi” Rubio Di Biase, the Chilean founder and frontman of the genre-bending project CONOSUR, was a standout presence at Billboard Latin Music Week 2026, his unmistakable long, curly hair making him easily identifiable. CONOSUR embodies a distinct stamp of Chilean rock, deeply rooted in passion and authenticity, while fluidly integrating elements of rap and other musical styles. The visual component of his work is equally compelling, adding a rich and immersive dimension to the unique sounds presented in his music videos. The project’s name is a clever and deliberate play on words, referencing both the southern latitudes of his homeland ("Cono Sur") and a sophisticated appreciation for music ("connoisseur"). This fusion of rock attitude with modern synthesizer textures and poetic lyricism creates a distinctive and engaging artistic identity.
Song for Your Playlist: "HOME"
Alberto Jiménez: The Balladeer of Personal Truths
Name: Alberto Jiménez
Country: Nicaragua
Alberto Jiménez, a native of Managua, Nicaragua, first impressed as a contestant in a talent competition where this writer served as a judge earlier this year. His performance showcased not only unparalleled talent but also a profound passion, unwavering dedication, and an undeniable ambition to become a prominent Latin singer. His participation in his first Billboard Latin Music Week this year further underscores his commitment to his career trajectory. Jiménez possesses an old-soul sensibility, and his music is deeply rooted in Latin ballads, infused with personal storytelling drawn from real-life experiences. On his debut studio album, VENENO, entirely self-produced in his home recording studio, Jiménez courageously explores themes of broken relationships, concealed truths, and the journey toward self-discovery, artfully transforming life’s most significant challenges into sources of beauty and strength.
Song For Your Playlist: "Veneno"
Oscar Carlin: A Rising Star in Regional Mexican Music
Name: Oscar Carlin
Country: Mexico
Oscar Carlin, born in Hermosillo, Sonora, is steadily making his mark on the regional Mexican music scene. He initially gained traction by performing well-received covers on digital platforms, and has since transitioned to releasing his own original music. His powerful and distinct vocal timbre has attracted significant attention, including an invitation to share the stage with the esteemed Carin León. This encouragement has fueled his ambition to further his career under the guidance of the independent label Chalucas Music Records. Carlin’s repertoire encompasses themes of love, heartbreak, and uplifting messages, skillfully blending the established standards of traditional Mexican music with contemporary genre sounds. By embracing the strengths of both traditional and modern approaches, he continues to forge a path of rapid ascent in his career.
Song for Your Playlist: "Llévenme"
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