New Music Latin: Piso 21 Transcends with "TRESCENDER," Laura Pausini Celebrates Legacy, and More

New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors. This week’s curated selection highlights a diverse range of artists and releases, from the deeply personal evolution of Colombian group Piso 21 to the enduring artistry of Italian superstar Laura Pausini, and a vibrant collection of singles and EPs that showcase the breadth and dynamism of the Latin music landscape.

Piso 21 Embarks on a New Era with "TRESCENDER"

Colombian urban music stalwarts Piso 21 have unveiled their eighth studio album, TRESCENDER. This significant release marks a new chapter for the group, now operating as a trio following the departure of former member Lorduy in January 2025. The album’s title, a portmanteau of the Spanish words "trascendencia" (transcendence) and "tres" (three), encapsulates the project’s core themes: the enduring legacy, artistic evolution, and profound emotional maturity the group has cultivated over nearly two decades in the music industry.

TRESCENDER is a meticulously crafted 12-track collection that demonstrates Piso 21’s commitment to both their signature pop sound and their willingness to explore new sonic territories. The album opens with "Bruno Mars," a funk-rock anthem where members Dim, Profe, and Pablo express a clear aspiration for a future collaboration with the American superstar, setting a bold and ambitious tone. This energetic kickoff is followed by a string of notable collaborations, including the highly anticipated salsa hit "Volver," featuring the legendary Marc Anthony and the burgeoning talent Bélé. This track, in particular, has already garnered significant traction, resonating with a global audience and underscoring the group’s ability to bridge genres and generations.

Beyond their established pop sensibilities, Piso 21 ventures into diverse rhythms throughout TRESCENDER. The album features a vibrant exploration of merengue on "Regalito," a collaboration with Juan Duque, showcasing a playful and infectious energy. The rich traditions of vallenato are honored on "Felices de Mentira," a partnership with Colombian icon Fonseca, offering a heartfelt narrative. Furthermore, the romantic allure of bolero is captured in "Por Si Mañana No Estoy," a poignant duet with Andres Cepeda. These genre explorations are not mere stylistic detours but rather a testament to the group’s versatility and deep appreciation for the diverse musical heritage of Latin America.

Lyrically, TRESCENDER presents a compelling duality. The album is imbued with feel-good, uplifting verses that resonate with optimism and positivity. Simultaneously, the lyrics exude a sophisticated romanticism, delving into themes of love, connection, and introspection with a maturity that reflects the band’s seasoned artistry. This lyrical depth, combined with their melodic prowess, creates a listening experience that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging.

A pivotal aspect of TRESCENDER‘s release is its significance as the trio’s debut studio album under their own independent record label, Tres Sietes. The exclusive announcement of this venture was made during an invite-only album release party held in Miami on Thursday, March 12. This strategic move signifies Piso 21’s growing autonomy and their commitment to shaping their artistic future on their own terms. The album’s collaborative spirit extends further, with contributions from artists such as Bacilos, Lasso, and Yami Safdie, further enriching its sonic tapestry and expanding its appeal across different fan bases.

Laura Pausini Honors Her Roots and Influences with "YO CANTO 2"

Two decades after the monumental success of her 2006 covers album Yo Canto, Italian powerhouse Laura Pausini returns with Yo Canto 2. This new project is a heartfelt tribute to the countries that have embraced her music and the iconic artists who have shaped her artistic journey. The album features 18 tracks, with a deluxe edition expanding to 21 songs, further solidifying Pausini’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive musical experience. Yo Canto 2 is part of a broader dual project that also includes the previously released Italian LP, Io Canto 2.

Yo Canto 2 showcases Pausini’s masterful interpretation of a diverse array of Latin American classics. Among the standout tracks are her renditions of Juan Luis Guerra’s timeless "Bachata Rosa," Ricky Martin’s infectious "Livin’ La Vida Loca," Gloria Estefan’s empowering "Oye Mi Canto," and Shakira’s deeply personal "Antología." These selections represent a cross-section of Latin music history, demonstrating Pausini’s deep understanding and reverence for the original works.

What elevates Yo Canto 2 beyond a simple collection of covers is Pausini’s mature and nuanced approach to each song. She infuses these familiar melodies with new colors and dimensions, showcasing different facets of her vocal artistry. Her rockier side shines through in a powerful interpretation of Fito Péez’s "Mariposa Tecknicolor." A more sublime and introspective mood is evoked in her rendition of Violeta Parra’s enduring anthem "Gracias a la Vida." Even Bad Bunny’s heart-wrenching ballad "Turista" is transformed under Pausini’s skilled interpretation, revealing a raw vulnerability that resonates deeply.

The album also features several multigenerational collaborations, highlighting Pausini’s ability to connect with artists from different eras. She duets with veteran singer Ricardo Montaner on his own classic "Cuando Nacen Amores," creating a rich and nostalgic dialogue between two established artists. A youthful spark is added through her collaboration with the emerging talent Yami Safdie on Joan Sebastian’s beloved "Eso y Más." These collaborations underscore Pausini’s role as a bridge between musical generations, celebrating the continuity and evolution of Latin music.

With its impeccable production and Pausini’s signature confident and precise vocal delivery, Yo Canto 2 allows the artist to make each song her own. She doesn’t merely replicate; she reinterprets, imbuing each track with her unique artistic identity while paying profound respect to the original creators. This album stands as a testament to her enduring legacy and her remarkable ability to connect with audiences across linguistic and cultural barriers, solidifying her position as a global music icon.

Singles and EPs: A Vibrant Tapestry of Latin Sounds

This week’s "New Music Latin" also features a compelling selection of singles and EPs that represent the diverse and evolving sounds of the Latin music scene.

Luis R Conriquez: "Muchacho Alegre" – A Defiant Celebration of Success

Luis R Conriquez’s latest single, "Muchacho Alegre," is a powerful and unapologetic declaration of his journey from humble beginnings to a life of success and indulgence. The track is characterized by its assertive instrumentation, featuring steely guitars and sharp brass, all underscored by Conriquez’s undeniable swagger. He vividly recounts the grind that propelled him from obscurity to immense wealth, a life now filled with music, luxury, and the camaraderie of his chosen circle. The lyrics, "Que el muchacho alegre lo bueno que ha coronado / Vengo desde abajo, pero también la perreo" (Let the cheerful boy celebrate the good things he’s achieved / I came from humble beginnings, but I’ve worked my way up), encapsulate this triumphant narrative.

The accompanying music video powerfully visualizes this arc of success. It juxtaposes scenes of Conriquez on a sprawling Mexican ranch, honoring his roots, with glamorous moments in Paris, standing before the Eiffel Tower and amidst high-end boutiques. This visual storytelling effectively communicates a man who remains grounded in his origins while reveling in the heights he has achieved. The song’s infectious energy and empowering message have resonated with listeners, solidifying its place as a standout release.

Bunbury: "La próxima vez no habrá próxima vez" – A Resolute Farewell

Enrique Bunbury, a towering figure in Latin music, unveils "La próxima vez no habrá próxima vez" (Next time there will be no next time), the fourth single from his forthcoming album, De un siglo anterior. The evocative title itself speaks to the song’s central theme: the finality and profound emotional weight of reaching a point of no return. Bunbury’s distinctive vocal delivery navigates a rich sonic landscape that blends blues, country, and rock influences. A nostalgic guitar riff anchors the track, evoking a complex mix of longing and unwavering resolve. The instrumentation is meticulously layered, creating a textured and immersive experience, while Bunbury’s performance imbues the song with a profound sense of wisdom and raw vulnerability, making it a compelling listen.

Banda Carnaval: "No Tiene Precio" – A Traditional Sinaloan Showcase

Banda Carnaval delivers a comprehensive showcase of their mastery of traditional Sinaloan music with their latest album, No Tiene Precio. The album features 10 tracks, each adorned with the characteristic instrumentation of the genre: the ever-present tuba, trumpets, clarinets, snare drums, and, of course, the vibrant tambora drum. Produced by Jesús Tirado, the album explores a range of thematic and sonic expressions.

The focus track, "Si Se Trata de Ti," stands out as the most romantic offering, presenting a stark contrast to the heartbreak narratives found in "De Nuestro Amor No Queda Nada," which chronicles the dissolution of a relationship, and "El Que Se Lleva Se Aguanta," another song dealing with the pain of separation. The album also incorporates a traditional corrido with "El Lucero," a song celebrating a magnificent horse and the essence of ranch life. The title track, "No Tiene Precio," offers a heartwarming depiction of simple family life and love. For those seeking to dance, "Cumbia Carnaval" provides an energetic rhythm, while "Por Aquí Paso María" adds a cheerful and uplifting touch, contributing to the album’s overall balanced and engaging production.

Dale Pututi, Nesty, Romn Beatz: "Maridón" – An Innovative Fusion of Rhythms

Cuban artists Dale Pututi and Nesty continue their successful collaborative streak with "Maridón," a track produced by RoMn Beatz. Following the positive reception of their first joint effort, "Luna," in 2025, this new collaboration solidifies their dynamic as a creative force. "Maridón," a nearly three-minute song, is an innovative melting pot of rhythms, skillfully blending elements of reparto and ranchera music. The title itself, a Cuban slang term loosely translating to "dumb boyfriend," hints at the song’s lyrical content, which revolves around a man secretly involved with a woman who is already in a relationship.

The cheeky chorus captures the song’s playful yet provocative narrative: "Tell your partner to stop looking on social media / He’s on top of my profile, and he needs to learn some manners / It looks like he hasn’t realized what a total fool he’s making of himself / I don’t even follow you, yet we’re still hooking up." "Maridón" can be seen as a subtle sequel to Pututi and Nesty’s earlier track "Los Despechaos," featuring Tito El Bambino. In that song, the artists adopted the perspective of a man embittered by a breakup, and in a twist of fate, "Maridón" finds them embodying the role of the "other man," adding a layer of narrative continuity and thematic exploration.

Enjambre: "Daños Luz" – A Journey Through Time and Emotion

Mexican rock band Enjambre presents Daños Luz, an album that lead singer Luis Humberto Navejas describes as "a tunnel of eras." This evocative metaphor highlights the album’s central concept: connecting the band members’ adolescence in their native Zacatecas with their present musical landscape. The 11-track LP unfolds as a temporal journey, where emotions and memories surface, prompting reflection on what has been lost and gained over the years, all while being illuminated by a hopeful ray of light.

The album features several nostalgic tracks, including "Desfaces," "El regalo," "Vida en el espectro," and "Mente adolescente." The latter, a punk-rock track inspired by Argentine bands like Dos Minutos, showcases Enjambre’s versatility and their engagement with diverse musical influences. These songs weave together stories and memories of youth, complemented by experimentation with a variety of sounds, mesmerizing electric guitar work, and even subtle nods to the atmosphere of dance halls. Tracks like "Angustias" delve into the profound weight of thoughts and emotions, while "Errante" explores themes of identity. Daños Luz demonstrates both emotional and musical maturity, reaffirming the sonic quality that earned Enjambre a well-deserved spot on Billboard’s list of the 50 Best Latin Rock Bands of All Time.

SANTOS BRAVOS: "DUAL" – A Debut EP Exploring Identity

SANTOS BRAVOS, the dynamic new group making waves in the Latin music scene, has officially released their debut EP, DUAL. Revealed during a Billboard livestream at the 2026 Premio Lo Nuestro, the EP lives up to its promise of a significant release, featuring six tracks. The EP includes the group’s debut single, "0%," and the previously released track "KAWASAKI."

The EP showcases the diverse talents of its members: Drew (US), Kauã (Brazil), Alejandro (Peru), Kenneth (Mexico), and Gabi (Puerto Rico). Together, they explore edgy and progressive rhythms, singing in multiple languages, reflecting the group’s global composition. DUAL perfectly embodies the group’s dual identity: "Santo," rooted in energetic, melodic, and emotional Latin pop, and "Bravo," representing intensity and instinct, bolstered by reggaeton and global club sounds. The release of the EP is further amplified by the premiere of a new docuseries, detrás de DUAL (Behind DUAL), which launched on Spotify on March 15, offering fans an intimate look into the creation of the EP and the artists’ journey.

Los Dos Carnales: "Me Derrito" – A Sensual Return to Romance

After a period of focusing on songs of self-improvement and resilience, Los Dos Carnales return with a sensual and romantic track, "Me Derrito." The song tells the story of winning a woman’s heart, exploring the emotions she evokes and the potential consequences if she succumbs to passion. Penned by Blas Murrieta, a highly sought-after songwriter in the corridos tumbados genre, "Me Derrito" showcases a different facet of the composer’s talent. It also provides brothers Imanol and Poncho Quezada with an opportunity to display their interpretive skills beyond their typically gritty repertoire.

Musically, the track remains true to Los Dos Carnales’ distinctive traditional norteño style, with the accordion taking center stage. The classic sounds of the bajo sexto, drums, double bass, and snare drums are preserved, offering an authentic and resonant listening experience that highlights the brothers’ vocal harmonies and their ability to deliver heartfelt narratives.

This week’s "New Music Latin" compilation underscores the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of Latin music. From established artists exploring new creative avenues to emerging groups defining the future of the genre, the selection offers a rich and diverse listening experience for fans worldwide.