Candice Horbacz
Billboard Latin and Billboard Español, the authoritative voices in Latin music, have once again spotlighted a curated selection of rising artists poised to make a significant impact on the global music landscape. The May 2026 edition of their "On the Radar" feature introduces a dynamic roster of talent, spanning various genres and regions, representing the vanguard of musical innovation and artistry. These artists, described by editors as "diamantes en bruto" or "diamonds in the rough," are identified for their unique sound, compelling narratives, and potential to transcend mainstream barriers. The selection process, involving rigorous review of social media discovery, industry networking, and live performance showcases, aims to provide readers with an essential guide to the next wave of Latin music stars.
Spotlight on Jorsshh: The Songwriting Architect Stepping into the Limelight
From the vibrant musical heartland of Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, emerges Jorsshh, an artist who has quietly honed his craft as a pivotal songwriter behind some of the most significant hits in the música mexicana. For years, Jorsshh has been a respected force, contributing his lyrical prowess and melodic sensibility to anthems that have defined the genre. His songwriting credits include chart-topping tracks such as Fuerza Regida’s "Tu Sancho," Tito Double P and Peso Pluma’s "Dos Días," and Tito’s "Nadie." He has also played a crucial role in major projects by Luis R. Conriquez and other prominent artists, solidifying his reputation as a master craftsman of contemporary regional Mexican music.
This past week marked a significant transition for Jorsshh as he unveiled his debut album, Ay Weyy, under the Street Mob Records label. The 18-track collection represents a bold step from behind the scenes into his own artistic spotlight. Ay Weyy is a deeply personal exploration, channeling the emotional complexities of youth with the characteristic grit, melodic resonance, and streetwise authenticity that have become hallmarks of corridos tumbados at their most impactful. The album’s thematic depth and sonic innovation are amplified by an impressive array of collaborations, featuring industry heavyweights such as Fuerza Regida, Tito Double P, Gabito Ballesteros, Neto Vega, Chuyin, Calle 24, and Luis R. Conriquez. These partnerships not only underscore the magnitude of his arrival but also highlight his integral position within the evolving música mexicana movement.
Jorsshh articulated his vision for the album in a statement to Billboard: "My hope is that when people listen to this album, they see themselves in these songs. I want anyone who’s dealing with emotional highs and lows to know they’re not alone." This sentiment resonates throughout Ay Weyy, which avoids the perception of chasing trends, instead embodying an artist dedicated to enriching the genre from within. The track "Californication" featuring Tito Double P is a standout recommendation for playlists, encapsulating the album’s fusion of heartfelt lyricism and contemporary música mexicana sound.
Elena Sofía: A Young Virtuoso Capturing the Latin Pop Landscape
At just 17 years old, Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Elena Sofía is rapidly emerging as a formidable talent in the Latin pop arena. Her multifaceted artistry is underscored by a classical vocal training, proficiency across multiple instruments, and a background in acting. These diverse skills have converged to produce a compelling artistic identity, evident in her extensive catalog of dozens of songs released across Spotify and YouTube, which have collectively garnered millions of streams.
Elena Sofía’s lyrical narratives delve into universal themes of love, heartbreak, friendship, and self-discovery, delivered with a vocal performance that is simultaneously sweet, powerful, and assured. Her 2024 album, ¿Qué Tú Te Crees?, featuring the successful single "No Quiero Amarte," has solidified her presence in the industry. Her undeniable talent and broad appeal have not gone unnoticed by major record labels. In April 2026, she inked a significant deal with Sony Music Latin. Alex Gallardo, president of Sony Music Latin, commented on her burgeoning career: "Her ability to connect through her lyrics at such a young age is truly impressive." Elena Sofía’s trajectory points towards a bright future, with her song "Hola ¿Alo?" being a prime example of her melodic sensibility and relatable storytelling.
Miranda León: Charting a Course Through Genre Fusion in Regional Mexican Music
Nineteen-year-old Miranda León is captivating audiences with her innovative musical fusions, seamlessly blending pop and urbano styles, including hip-hop and trap, with deep-rooted regional Mexican influences. Hailing from Culiacán, the same fertile musical ground as Jorsshh, León has witnessed a significant surge in her listener numbers, consistently appearing on charts across various digital platforms. Her track "66 AM," released just a few months prior to this feature, achieved viral status, building substantial anticipation for subsequent releases. Her follow-up single, "La Misión," further cemented her strong reception among listeners and underscored her clear upward momentum in the new music scene.
León’s artistic versatility extends beyond her vocal performances to her lyrical content, where a compelling balance of vulnerability, strength, and attitude defines her unique voice. These qualities have been instrumental in her achieving a remarkable 3.3 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Her collaboration on "La Misión" with Jimmy Guzmán highlights her ability to connect with other artists and expand her sonic reach. The song exemplifies her fresh approach to regional Mexican music, infusing it with contemporary urban sensibilities.
El Shadow: The Cuban Crooner Blending Afrobeats with Island Soul
Hailing from Camagüey, Cuba, El Shadow, born Raudel Gómez Hernández, is making substantial inroads into the international music scene with his distinctive vocal style and innovative Afrobeats fusion. At a time when Cuban reparto music is experiencing a global renaissance, El Shadow has carved out a unique niche by blending the genre’s rhythmic energy with a more mellow, island-infused soundscape. Since beginning his musical journey in 2022, initially with reparto music, El Shadow has evolved to establish a sonic identity deeply rooted in Caribbean rhythms and a relaxed island aesthetic.
His artistic proposal, often described as reminiscent of Beélle and Kapo, showcases a refreshing take on contemporary Latin music, particularly impressive given the limited resources available on the island. El Shadow’s dedication and unique sound have paved the way for significant opportunities, including an anticipated major collaboration with global superstar Nicky Jam titled "La Foto," slated for release on August 12. This collaboration signifies a pivotal moment in his career, bringing his artistry to a much wider audience. In the interim, he continues to build a promising catalog that includes notable tracks such as "Más Linda Eres Tú" with El Chulo and "Guaya" with Harryson, demonstrating his consistent output and growing influence. His song "Nada Raro" featuring July Roby offers a compelling glimpse into his evolving sound.
Lauta: Celebrating Argentine Culture Through Cumbia and Pop Fusion
Lauta, an artist from Argentina, has captured the attention of listeners through his vibrant fusion of cumbia, pop, and reggaeton, infused with a distinct Argentine flavor. His music is more than just catchy rhythms; it serves as a joyous celebration of Argentine culture, the camaraderie associated with sharing mate, and the simple pleasure of enjoying good music with friends. His track "Puñaladas," initially released with Amigos de Artistas and producer Tote, gained significant traction, especially after a remix featuring Maluma, Manuel Turizo, and Reik further amplified its reach.
Lauta possesses a remarkable ability to paint vivid portraits of women in his lyrics, crafting the image of the "dream girl" in songs like "Tú Eres Hermosa" featuring Matias Valdez, "Arriba Morocha," and "Más Linda Que Ayer." His authentic use of Argentine slang and accent, combined with his eclectic musical influences, creates tracks that radiate infectious summer energy. The playful rhythms of the güiro, ukulele, and accordion contribute to the vibrant and uplifting atmosphere of his music. His song "Puñaladas" with Amigo de Artistas is a prime example of his ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements into a compelling sonic experience.
Lo Delceggio: The "Fast Life Boy" Infusing Nostalgia into Argentine Urban Music
Lo Delceggio, a 20-year-old artist based in Miami but originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is bringing a distinctive nostalgic twist to the burgeoning urban music scene in his native country. Drawing inspiration from Argentine trap artists like Trueno and Duki, he masterfully blends their influences with the sounds of 2010s EDM, house, R&B, and Latin pop. Adopting the moniker "Fast Life Boy," Lo Delceggio imbues his music with a candid lyrical style, often shaped by his personal experiences migrating from South America to the United States as a teenager. Songs like "Tu Pasatiempo" and "Por Qué" offer emotionally resonant narratives that reflect his journey.
While his music career has been developing over the past few years, Lo Delceggio has meticulously crafted an artistic identity that he is now poised to introduce to a wider audience. His first international "Fast Life Tour" is set to kick off in Argentina this August, marking a significant milestone in his career. His track "Supraa" featuring Markán showcases his unique blend of genres and introspective lyricism, signaling his readiness for broader international recognition.
S.3.R: Camilo Medina’s Genre-Bending Solo Project Explores Raw Emotion
S.3.R, the solo project of Colombian artist Camilo Medina, offers a compelling departure from his work as the frontman of the indie outfit Divino Niño. Trading the psych-pop haze for a more chaotic, club-wired sensibility, S.3.R delves into a soundscape where heartbreak, lust, and late-night delirium converge over glitchy Latin textures. Based in New York, Medina has been steadily introducing this vision through a series of singles that precede his upcoming album, Amor, due next month. The project embraces a DIY aesthetic that feels both raw and emotionally frayed, creating a uniquely captivating listening experience.
His latest track, "Ti," released on July 15, serves as a potent entry point into his world. This intimate dance song is built upon themes of longing, desire, and obsession, where guaracha and Latin club rhythms collide with diaristic songwriting about omnipresent infatuation. Earlier singles, such as "Abismo del Horror" and "Triste Enloquecido Intensamente," further illustrate how S.3.R is carving out a distinct artistic lane that is simultaneously vulnerable and defiantly irreverent. The project’s exploration of complex emotional states within a danceable framework positions it as a noteworthy addition to the contemporary Latin music scene.
Drea Tomé: A Debut Album Chronicling the Twenties Experience
Drea Tomé has spent years cultivating an impressive résumé behind the scenes in the music industry, contributing to Gloria Estefan’s 2021 Grammy-winning album BRAZIL305 as a co-writer of the lead single ("Cuando Hay Amor") and participating in She Is The Music songwriting camps. Now, Tomé is stepping into the full spotlight with her debut album, Soundtrack to My Twenties. This coming-of-age musical project is characterized by its deep personal resonance and universal relatability. Through emotionally rich indie-pop sounds, guided by her angelic vocals and intimate lyricism, Drea invites listeners into a deeply personal journey.
The eight-track project navigates the uncertainties, heartbreaks, and formative experiences that accompany early adulthood and the nuanced meaning of being in one’s twenties. Songs like "To Miss the Start" and "Cold Feet" offer poignant reflections on this transitional phase of life. Tomé’s ability to articulate these complex emotions through her music suggests a significant emerging voice in the indie-pop landscape, offering a soundtrack that resonates with a generation grappling with similar life stages.
Claudia Zuazo: Spanish Artist Weaving Alternative Pop with Ethereal Vocals
Claudia Zuazo, an artist from Alicante, Spain, has emerged as a captivating voice in the alternative pop and soft rock scene. Her discovery by chance via an Apple Music shuffle playlist, where her track "Casiopea" stood out amidst English-language songs, highlights the immediate impact of her warm sound and ethereal vocal quality. Zuazo’s musical journey began in 2018 as the keyboardist for the alt-rock band Niña Polaca before embarking on her solo career.
On May 20, following a series of singles, she independently released her debut album, De Mí. Distributed by Altafonte, the seven-track set, including "Casiopea," "La Línea," "Ahora Que Estás," and the title track featuring Anouck The Band, showcases an immersive, organic sound. Zuazo’s music offers a refreshing alternative for listeners seeking introspective and melodically rich alternative pop, establishing her as a promising artist to watch within the Spanish music circuit.
Riamonae: Neo-Soul Powerhouse Blending Caribbean Roots with Global Appeal
Riamonae, a Miami-based neo-soul artist, presents a commanding presence as a singer and dancer with an ethereal stage persona. Her catalog, tracing back to 2021 on Spotify, reveals a depth of talent that positions her as a potential future powerhouse in the vein of Jessie Reyez, Amy Winehouse, and Mon Laferte. Riamonae’s journey includes a notable semi-finalist appearance at the 2026 La Voz Guacalito singing competition, where her raw talent was recognized.
Embracing her Puerto Rican and Cuban heritage, Riamonae infuses her music with a rich cultural tapestry. This fusion is powerfully exemplified in songs like "Mi Tumbao," a collaboration featuring the renowned guitarist Homero Gallardo. Her ability to blend sophisticated neo-soul sensibilities with vibrant Caribbean rhythms creates a unique and compelling sound that is both deeply personal and broadly appealing, marking her as a significant emerging artist in the contemporary R&B and soul landscape.
The "On the Radar" series continues to serve as a vital platform for discovering and championing emerging artists across the vast and diverse spectrum of Latin music. Billboard Latin and Billboard Español remain committed to providing their audience with early access to the talents that will shape the future of the industry.
Eva Lovia
Julia Chirkova
Julia Prastini
Nila Kartika Wati
Jia Lissa
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