Latin Party Music - A Selection of 50 Latin Songs for A Night of Dancing...

In terms of dancing and having fun, I do not think there is anything that can beat a good Latin party. Using my DJ experience, I am going to lead you through the following playlist as if I were playing music in front of a crowd. This selection features 50 classic and contemporary songs from various genres such as Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Reggaeton, Latin Rock and Brazilian music. Whether you are planning to have a Latin party or need some music you can dance to, the following playlist will provide you with a good spectrum of the amazing sounds that Latin music is able to offer. 

1. "Congo Mulence" - Machito: When playing Latin music, the first thing I like to do is creating the mood. People like to chat or have some drinks before hitting the dance floor so it is important to set up the mood first. A Latin Jazz track will do the trick. This classic song by Machito is an ideal way to start your Latin party. "Congo Mulence" is also featured in a very nice Latin Jazz album produced by Putumayo Records.

2. "Menina Moca" - Stan Getz: We will continue to set up the mood by bringing more 'sophisticated' music with a Latin flavor to it. Another jazzy track will help us to carry out the mood of the previous song. However, this time we are going to move from the vibes of Afro-Cuban Jazz to the realm of Brazilian Jazz. Out of the many songs produced by the legendary Jazz musician Stan Getz, during the time he played alongside Bossa Nova icon Joao Gilberto, "Menina Moca" is definitely one of the best songs to get into the mood for a Latin party. With this transition, we are also introducing the crowd to a large variety of sounds.

3. "Marianao Social Club" - Cachao: We will continue with our previous jazzy mood. However, this time we are ready to turn this Latin party up a notch. "Marianao Social Club," a wonderful song included in the album Master Sessions Volume 1 by Cachao, will allow us to do that. This song offers a perfect 'bridge' to move from the sounds of Latin Jazz into something a bit spicier.

4. "Sou Negrao" - Rappin Hood: Now it is time to move into a different field. From the sounds of traditional Cuban music and Latin Jazz we are jumping into the vibrant flavors of Brazilian Urban music. One of the biggest stars in this field is Rappin Hood. In "Sou Negrao" this rapper mixes in a very fun and creative way traditional Pagode with the Urban sounds of Sao Paulo, one of the biggest metropolis in the world. Now, it is definitely the time to start heating up this Latin party.

5. "Lo Que Paso Paso" - Daddy Yankee: We will stay in the Urban field with this hit of Daddy Yankee's breakthrough album Barrio Fino. This time we are moving from the Brazilian beats of Rapin Hood's "Sou Negrao" to one of the best Reggaeton songs by the Puerto Rican superstar. "Lo Que Paso Paso" will definitely bring people into the dancing floor of this Latin party.

6. "A Lo Cubano" - Orishas: We will stay in the Urban side with this fantastic song from one of the most influential groups that Latin Urban music has ever seen. "A Lo Cubano" is one of the best tracks included in Orishas's album Antidiotico. The song offers a nice combination of rap with a background sound of traditional Cuban Danzon. This song is perfect to move into a Salsa or Timba track, something that I will do with the next song of this Latin party playlist.

7. "Tributo al Niño Rivera" - Afro Cuban All Stars: Now that you got some people on the dance floor, it is time to hit them with a nice Salsa song. "Tributo al Niño Rivera" is a fantastic song from beginning to end. It offers a very elegant sound defined by amazing musical arrangements. You gotta love the flute and the tres playing in this song. This single offers six solid minutes of pure good music.

8. "Mujer Celosa" - El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico: We are going to stay in the Salsa field. This time, however, we will switch vibes a bit. From Cuba we are moving into the sounds of Puerto Rican Salsa with this track of one of the best groups in the history of this genre. "Mujer Celosa" is one of the best songs by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. A very nice song that will keep your crowd dancing.

9. "Canto Al Amor" - Sonora Ponceña: I am going to close this Salsa set with a track from another of the most influential Salsa bands from Puerto Rico. "Canto Al Amor" offers the typical sound that La Sonora Poncena has forged throughout a long and successful musical career. The piano in the intro part, the brass sections, the chorus, and the hard melody of the second half of this track are just plain fantastic. Because of all this, "Canto Al Amor" remains as one of the most popular songs ever produced by La Poncena.

10. "Dulces Sueños" - Rita Indiana: Now, it is time for a little break and switch gears. To accomplish that, I am bringing the track "Dulces Sueños" by Latin Alternative artist Rita Indiana. This is a funky bilingual version of the legendary song "Sweet Dreams" by Eurythmics. This single offers the so-called Techno-Merengue (literally a combination of Techno music with Merengue) that Rita Indiana usually incorporates into her productions. This song is a nice bridge to jump into a Merengue track.

11. "Llueve El Amor" - Tito El Bambino: Now, we are going to move from Rita Indiana's funky Merengue style into the classic beats of this Dominican genre. Although "Llueve El Amor" is not the typical track from Tito El Bambino, one of today's top Latin Urban artists, this song is one of the most popular tracks that this singer has produced in recent years. "Llueve El Amor" is an ideal song to add a romantic touch to this Latin Party playlist. Lovers will surely hit the floor with this one.

2. "Tu Eres Ajena" - Eddy Herrera: Now that we have entered into the world of Merengue, it is time to bring a good track for dancing. Eddy Herrera is one of today's most popular Merengue stars. His repertoire is an ideal option to consider if you want to spice up your Latin party. "Tu Eres Ajena" is just one of the many Merengue hits this Dominican artist has produced throughout his successful career.

13. "Procura" - Chichi Peralta: Now, we are going to move to a different style without leaving the sounds of Dominican music. In order to maintain the energy of the previous song, here there is another great track for dancing. "Procura" is a fantastic song from beginning to end. It offers an intoxicating fusion of Tropical sounds that will keep people on the dance floor. This is one of the most popular singles included in Chichi Peralta's breakthrough album Pa Otro Lao.

14. "Corazon Sin Cara" - Prince Royce: After listening to some Merengue songs and the Tropical fusion of Chichi Peralta, it is time to bring a good Bachata track into this Latin Party. "Corazon Sin Cara" is one of the songs that transformed Prince Royce into one of today's most popular Bachata artists. This is also one of the best songs included in the album Prince Royce.

15. "Oye Mi Canto" - N.O.R.E.: After traveling through the sounds of Dominican music, it is time for a change of style. We will do it aggressively by bringing one classic Reggaeton hit. My choice to accomplish this is "Oye Mi Canto," a nice track by N.O.R.E. featuring different Reggaeton stars. Latin Urban music fans will definitely hit the floor with this one.

16. "I Know You Want Me" - Pitbull: With "I Know You Want Me," we will move from the classic beats of Reggaeton to the unique Urban style of Pitbull. This song is defined by Pitbull's traditional combination of Rap and Hip-Hop with Dance music. People who like this kind of Disco stuff will definitely love this one.

17. "Bossa 31" - Rosalia De Souza: We are about to switch the dancing style now. An eclectic mix of electronic sounds with Brazilian music will add something really cool to this Latin party playlist. "Bossa 31" is one of my favorite tracks from Brazilian artist Rosalia De Souza. This song provides an intoxicating sound that will keep your feet moving.

18. "Tic Tic Tac" - Carrapicho: To continue with the vibes of Brazilian music, I bring now "Tic Tic Tac," the most famous single ever produced by the Brazilian group Carrapicho. Back in the time when I used to be a DJ, people always went crazy about this track. Everytime I played this song, I had the dance floor packed. I do not know if this song still delivers the same effect but I still think it is a nice track to include in a Latin party.

19. "1, 2, 3" - El Simbolo: Time to bring this Latin party up a notch. Just like "Tic Tic Tac", this track is also one of those songs where people usually dance in groups. I prefer to stay away from very commercial stuff like the annoying "Macarena" and similar songs. However, I think "1, 2, 3" can bring a good energy to the dance floor. Once, I listened to this track in a Latin bar in Tokyo, Japan, and people just loved it. This Tropical song has definitely a global appeal.

20. "Guallando" - Fulanito: To keep the dancing mood in the right place, I bring a classic Merengue hit from Fulanito. Because of the energy it has, "Guallando" is a timeless track for any Latin party. This song offers an intoxicating sound defined by a fast Merengue beat and the nice touch provided by the notes of the accordion in the background. A fantastic track for any Latin party.

21. "Woman Del Callao" - Juan Luis Guerra: I think any good Latin party should play at least one track from Merengue and Bachata icon Juan Luis Guerra. To keep the party going, I am adding to this playlist one of my favorite songs by Juan Luis Guerra. "Woman Del Callao" is a nice Merengue song that will keep people moving their feet on the dance floor.

22. "Sin Perdon" - Hector Acosta: After listening to some Merengue, it is time again to bring another Bachata song. This time, I have selected a track from Hector 'El Torito' Acosta, one of the most popular stars of Bachata music. "Sin Perdon" is a very nice song and people who are into Bachata music will love to dance to this track.

23. "Te Amo Y Te Amo" - La Adictiva Banda San Jose de Mesillas: We will carry out the feeling of the previous song with something totally different: Banda music. Since its release, "Te Amo Y Te Amo" has been one of the most popular hits in this genre. A romantic song, "Te Amo Y Te Amo" offers a pleasant sound shaped by the beats of Cumbia and nice brass sections. Being one of the most popular Latin music rhythms in the US, a Regional Mexican music track is an nice addition to include into this Latin party playlist.

24. "La Camisa Negra" - Juanes: This playlist is now changing gears. It is time for some Latin Rock. In order to move into that field, I am using "La Camisa Negra," one of the best songs by Juanes included in his album Mi Sangre. Considering the sound of this track, which fusions Rock with traditional rhythms, "La Camisa Negra" is a good piece to use here. Thanks to this song, Juanes became a worldwide sensation. I have introduced this song to friends all over the world and everybody just loves this. Definitely a good track for any Latin party.

25. "Todo Tenemos Un Amor" - La Mosca Tse-Tse: Now, it is time to bring something funky. "Todos Tenemos Un Amor" is one of the most popular tracks produced by the Argentinian band La Mosca Tse-Tse. This single features the typical style of the band, which is dominated by the sounds of Ska and the tropical flavors provided by their brass sections. The electric guitar playing throughout the songs is great. Depending on your mood, and your company, you can either jump with this song or have a nice dance with your loved one.

26. "Tunupa" - Kali Mutsa: One of my favorite things to do when I was playing music in front of a crowd was challenging people with new sounds. This song by the Chilean group Kali Mutsa fits that idea. This Latin Alternative track provides an interesting mix that combines Bollywwod music with the sounds of traditional Andean music. "Tunupa" adds something different to this Latin party playlist.

27. "La Flores" - Cafe Tacvba: After the psychedelic music of Kali Mutsa, I am bringing a classic song by Cafe Tacvba, one of the pioneers of Latin Rock and Latin Alternative music. Since this is a compilation of songs for a Latin party, I have chosen one of the funnest singles ever produced by this Mexican band. "Las Flores" has the distinctive flavor that Cafe Tacvba has nurtured with music influenced by Ska, Punk and Rock sounds. This is definitely a nice song to jump around.

28. "La Gota Fria" - Carlos Vives: From the Alternative sounds of Cafe Tacvba we are moving now into the Caribbean vibes of Vallenato. We are going to do that with the track that gave Vallenato its international fame. "La Gota Fria" was, in fact, the song that transformed Carlos Vives into the most popular Vallenato artist in the planet. This is another song with a global appeal that fits perfectly this Latin party playlist.

29. "Ai Se Eu Te Pego" - Michel Telo: After listening to the sounds of the accordion playing Vallenato, we are going to listen the notes of the same instrument playing Brazilian Sertaneja music. This time, I bring one of the hottest hits of 2011. "Ai Se Eu Te Pego" by Michel Telo is a catchy song that took the world by storm when Cristiano Ronaldo danced to it after scoring one goal. Maybe this is a bit too commercial but you always have to play this kind of stuff in a Latin party. People just love it.

30. "Grades Do Coracao" - Grupo Revelacao: More Brazilian music. This time, I am featuring the amazing beats of Grupo Revelacao, one of the most popular bands in the fields of Samba and Pagode. "Grades Do Meu Coracao" is one of the most famous songs ever produced by this Brazilian group. You gotta love the percussion on this song.

31. "Mississippi Mambo" - Noro Morales: After playing around with Latin Alternative and Brazilian music, it is time to go back to the sounds of what people usually expects to listen to in a Latin party: Salsa. To open the next set of Salsa I would like to start with this very classic track by the legendary pianist Noro Morales. The song is entirely instrumental and provides an amazing melody for all of those who like to dance Salsa in an elegant way. This is a nice song to introduce the 'hard Salsa' (Salsa dura) I am playing afterwards.

32. "I Like It Like That" - Pete Rodriguez: I can't play a good set of Salsa without bringing back the vibrant sounds of Latin Boogaloo. Before Salsa became Salsa, Latin Boogaloo was the big thing during the 1960s. Some of the biggest stars of this movement included artists like the legendary Joe Cuba, Pete Rodriguez and Joe Bataan. Pete Rodriguez's "I Like It Like That" is my favorite Latin Boogaloo song. This single has an energy that is just amazing.

33. "Siguelo" - Javier Vazquez: After moving through the sounds of Mambo and Latin Boogaloo with Noro Morales and Pete Rodriguez, I am closing this set with one of the best tracks in the history of hard Salsa/Salsa dura. If you want to dance to a good Salsa song, "Siguelo" is an ideal track to consider. This song offers the original and best sound of Salsa music. I have been listening to Salsa music for years and this track is definitely on top of my Salsa dura ranking.

34. "Caraluna" - Bacilos: Now, it is time to move from the rich beats of hard Salsa to something a little bit softer. I am going to deliver this transition by adding to this Latin party playlist one of the best songs produced by the group Bacilos. "Caraluna" is a great song to dance to, especially if you are next to your loved one. The melody is defined by the popular combination of Vallenato with Tropical sounds that several Colombian artists have been forging in recent years. With this break, we are ready to explore more Tropical and Caribbean beats.

35. "Pintame De Colores" - Gloria Estefan: "Pintame De Colores" is one of the best songs Gloria Estefan included in her album 90 Millas. This track brings a nice sound shaped around traditional Cuban music. In particular, the sounds of the tres and clave provide this song with a very nice Caribbean flavor. "Pintame De Colores" is definitely a nice song to include in this Latin party playlist.

36. "La Gran Manzana" - Orquesta Frenesi: Now, it is time to introduce another interesting 'hybrid' song. "La Gran Manzana" is a single that achieved success thanks to the nice combination of Rap and Hip-Hop with Merengue. Besides being a nice song to dance to, this track opens the field for additional Merengue into this playlist.

37. "Loca Conmigo" - Los Toros Band: "Loca Conmigo" is one of the most popular Merengue songs produced by Los Toros Band. The melody, which is easy to follow, is adorned with nice brass sections and solid percussion. Because of the way it combines romantic and danceable segments, this is one of those songs that are good for 'flirting'.

38. "Nuestra Cancion" - Elvis Crespo: Following the vibes of the previous song, here there is another Merengue track by the popular Puerto Rican artist Elvis Crespo. "Nuestra Cancion" is a Merengue song that falls into the romantic side of the genre. In spite of this, the melody is also quite nice for dancing. Lovers will love to dance to it.

39. "Bachata En Fukuoka" - Juan Luis Guerra: To continue with the Dominican flavor, we are closing this set with another song by Juan Luis Guerra. This time, however, I am playing one of the most famous Bachata songs produced by the iconic Dominican artist. "Bachata En Fukuoka" will give lovers an additional reason to stay on the dance floor. This song offers a nice melody and the usual poetic lyrics Juan Luis Guerra always add to his songs. Make sure you don't miss the Salsa segment towards the end!

40. "Atrevete te te" - Calle 13: Time to spice up this Latin party with a little bit of Reggaeton and Cumbia. I could not leave out of this playlist one of the biggest names in Latin music. "Atrevete te te" is the song that transformed this Puerto Rican band into a Latin Urban music phenomenon. This classic song from Calle 13's repertoire features a nice combination of Reggaeton, Rap and Cumbia.

41. "Fuego" - Bomba Estereo: We are going to extend the sound of the previous song with this contemporary track produced by Bomba Estereo, one of Colombia's most interesting Latin Alternative bands. Besides Cumbia and Rap, "Fuego" also includes a nice touch of electronic music that enhances the eclectic appeal of this song. This is another cool song to challenge your crowd with.

42. "Bam Bam" - Rabanes: This song is another track charged with lots of good energy. In terms of its music, it is kind of a Tropical fusion that borrows elements from different kinds of genres. To place this track into some sort of label, I would call this 'Tropical Rock'. "Bam Bam" is one of the most popular tracks produced by the Panamanian band Rabanes. A full explosion from beginning to end.

43. "Pasarela" - Dalmata: Now to the last Reggaeton song of this Latin party playlist. This is a smooth song that offers a great beat. An interesting element added to this track is the Mariachi background that goes along with the whole melody. This is one of the best singles of the collaboration work between Reggaeton artists Dalmata and Ñejo.

44. "Le Gustan Los Artistas" - Gente de Zona: After the last Reggaeton song, it is time to feature a Cubaton track. While Reggaeton has been a genre developed in Puerto Rico, Cubaton is the Urban music equivalent that has been developed in Cuba. For newcomers, both genres may sound almost identical. However, Cubaton has a sound that is clearly defined by the beats of Cuban music. One of the biggest names of Cubaton is Gente de Zona. Their hit "Le Gustan Los Artistas" is a great song for a Latin dance party.

45. "No Podras Escapar De Mi" - Willie Gonzalez: After so many intense songs, it is time to start preparing the end of this Latin party by turning the level a bit down. In order to achieve this, a romantic Salsa song is a good option here. I am introducing now one of the most famous hits of the popular romantic Salsa singer Willie Gonzalez. "No Podras Escapar De Mi" combines very lyrics full of romanticism with a soft melody that lovers will enjoy to dance to.

46. "Te Conozco Bien" - Marc Anthony: I am going to keep the mood of the previous song by bringing another romantic Salsa song into this playlist. This time, I am playing "Te Conozco Bien," one of the most famous Salsa hits by Latin music superstar Marc Anthony. Although this is a romantic track, the second half of this song offers a nice musical segment to dance to.

47. "Promise" - Romeo Santos: I will continue to give couples a good reason to stay on the dance floor. This time, I am featuring the last Bachata song on this playlist. "Promise" is a hit song included in Romeo Santos's album Formula Vol. 1, one of the best Latin albums of 2011. This Bachata song has a nice touch of R&B thanks to the singing that Usher provides here.

48. "Golpes En El Corazon" - Los Tigres del Norte: I would like to end this Latin party playlist with three romantic tracks. By now people have danced a lot and it is time to enjoy some smooth melodies you can either sing or dance to. Now, I am bringing the Norteno music hit "Golpes En El Corazon" by Los Tigres del Norte. This version, which features Latin Pop star Paulina Rubio, is one of the best tracks included in the popular album MTV Unplugged: Los Tigres del Norte and Friends.

49. "Embrujo" - Andres Cepeda: Andres Cepeda is one of the most charismatic artists from Colombia. His music offers a nice fusion of Tropical rhythms with Bolero and a bit of Pop. "Embrujo" is another nice romantic song to play here. The melody, which sounds almost like a Ranchera song, leaves the field open for the last song of this playlist.

50. "Por Tu Maldito Amor" - Vicente Fernandez: Very often, a Latin party ends with a selection of heartbreaking songs that people like to sing together while drinking the last shots of the night. Classic Bolero, Ranchera or Vallenato songs are some of the favorite styles featuring these kinds of tracks. Because of this, the last song on this playlist is "Por Tu maldito Amor," one of the best songs by Vicente Fernandez.

Top Bachata Artists: A Selection of Top Singers from Traditional & Urban Bachata

During the last years, Bachata music has gained enourmous popularity all over the place. In fact, some of today's top Bachata artists are also some of the most influential Latin musicstars in the world. From Bachata pioneers such as Anthony Santos and Raulin Rodriguez to Urban Bachata stars like Romeo Santos and Prince Royce, the following singers are responsible for transforming this Dominican rhythm into one of the most popular Latin music genres. 

Anthony Santos is one of the first artists who was able to expose Bachata to a mainstream audience. Considered by many one of the most influential Bachata artists of all time, he changed this genre by adding romantic lyrics into his music. Some of his most famous hits include songs like "Corazon Culpable," "Voy Pa'lla" and the popular Bachata version of Los Tigres del Norte's single "Golpes En El Corazon". 

During the last decade, Joe Veras has been defining the sounds of modern Bachata. In 2004, he was honored by the Billboard Latin Music Awards with the Tropical Airplay Track Of The YearAward. Some of his most popular hits include songs like "Intentalo Tu" and "La Pared". He recently released a nice Bachata version of Lionel Richie's classic hit "Hello". 

This popular boy band opened the field for a new sound that ended up defining the roots of Urban Bachata. Aventura was, in fact, the first band to include Hip-Hop and R&B influences into their music. The band became a worldwide phenomenon thanks to the hit track "Obsesion". 

This duo from The Bronx is another popular name of today's Urban Bachata movement. The group was formed by singers Danny Mejia and Steven Tejada. Top songs by Xtreme include hits like "Te Extrano" and "Shorty Shorty". 

Hector 'El Torito' Acosta is one of the most popular Bachata artists. Besides Bachata he is also a talented singer in the fields of Merengue and Bolero. Some of his best Bachata songs include titles like "Me Voy" and "Sin Perdon". 

This Dominican artist is an important player of the group of pioneers who exposed Bachata to new audiences. A talented guitarist, Luis Vargas was one of the first Bachata artists to incorporate electric guitar into this genre. Some of his best songs include "Con Los Crespos Hechos" and "Loco De Amor". 

Alongside Romeo Santos, this singer from The Bronx is one of today's most popular Bachata stars. Thanks to his debut album and the recently released production Phase II, Prince Royce has captured audiences all over the world. Top hits include "Stand By Me," "Corazon Sin Cara" and "Las Cosas Pequenas". 

Yoskar Sarante has been a leading figure of modern Bachata. His music has been shaped around his romantic songs and style. Titles such as "La Noche" and "No Tengo Suerte En El Amor" are some of the most popular Bachata songs recorded by this popular Dominican artist. 

Originally from The Bronx, this duo was formed by Carlos Vargas Franco Jr. and Bianca Alejandra Feliz. Just like all the other stars coming from The Bronx, their music belongs to the Urban Bachata style. Top hits include singles such as "Cuanto Duele" and "Melodia De Amor". 

Although Juan Luis Guerra, one of the living legends of Latin music, is mostly known for his Merengue repertoire, this Dominican artist has also produced outstanding Bachata songs. Some of his most popular Bachata hits include tracks like "Bachata Rosa" and "Bachata En Fukuoka". 

Bachata Heightz is one of the pioneering groups of the Urban Bachata style. The name of this popular band comes from the neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City where this group was formed. Their music and style is heavily defined by Hip-Hop and R&B influences. Top bachata songs from this band include "Me Puedo Matar" and "No Sabes Del Amor". 

Just like Anthony 'El Mayimbe' Santos, this Dominican artist is one of the figures responsible for exposing Bachata music to new audiences. A big chunk of his popularity was the result of his ability to incorporate romantic lyrics into his music. He is widely considered one of the most essential Bachata artists in history. 

One of the most popular stars of traditional Bachata, Frank Reyes is usually referred to as The Prince of Bachata. A prolific songwriter, Frank Reyes's repertoire includes hits such as "Amor Desperdiciado," "Princesa" and "Tu Eres Ajena". 

Before moving into a successful solo career, this singer from The Bronx was a backup singer for the popular Bachata band Aventura. Toby Love has been acknowledged as the artist responsible for combining Crunk music with Bachata. Some of his most famous tracks include "Tengo Un Amor" and "Te Parece Poco". 

Elvis Martinez has been producing Bachata music since the late 1990s. Some of the most popular songs recorded by this Domnican singer include titles like "Asi Te Amo" and "Tu Traicion". 

Since 1997, this Dominican singer has built a reputation as one of the best Bachata artists out there. He has produced an extensive repertoire of popular Bachata songs including titles like "Me Sobran Las Palabras" and "Quedate Conmigo". If you are just getting into Bachata music, Zacarias Ferreira is definitely an artist you need to listen to. 

A leading figure of the Urban Bachata field, Romeo Santos is at the top of any list dealing with Bachata artists. He became a star as a lead singer for the sensation boy band Aventura. After that, he has continued to nurture a succesful solo career with his unique style. Some of his most popular hits include singles like "Obsesion," "Promise" and "You". 

Juan Luis Guerra - Best Songs

A Selection of Merengue and Bachata Hits from The Dominican Artist

I have selected the following Juan Luis Guerra songs to give you an overall idea of the sound that this Dominican artist has forged throughout his prolific music career. Being one of themost influential Latin music artists in history, Juan Luis Guerra has extensively shaped with his music different Tropical genres such as Merengue, Bachata and Salsa. The following tracks are some of the best songs ever produced by the Dominican icon.

10. "Como Abeja Al Panal"...
"Como Abeja Al Panal" is a hit song that belongs to the early repertoire of Juan Luis Guerra. This track offers a nice combination of Bachata, Bolero and Salsa. Juan Luis Guerra recorded this with his legendary group 440.

9. "Mi Bendicion"...
"Mi Bendicion" is one of the best tracks included in the 2010 album A Son De Guerra. The song, which is defined by the melody of a very romantic Bachata, includes beautiful lyrics. This single is a good sample to fully appreciate the poetic style that Juan Luis Guerra has consolidated throughout his career.

8. "Buscando Visa Para Un Sueño"...
This track is one of the most popular songs ever produced by Juan Luis Guerra. "Buscando Visa Para Un Sueño" is a single defined by a very uplifting Merengue beat. A good song to dance to but also a single whose lyrics are reflective about the desire to move away from a context where opportunities are scarce. The songs deals with the desire that many people have of getting a US visa so they can move north and dream with better future.

7. "Woman Del Callao"...
Another great Merengue track, "Woman Del Callao" is one of the best Juan Luis Guerra songs to play in a Latin party. This single offers a very nice percussion and brass sections. Juan Luis Guerra added a nice touch to this song by singing it in English and Spanish.

6. "El Costo De La Vida"...
"El Costo De la Vida" is one of the best parodies that Juan Luis Guerra has ever written. Because of its fast Merengue beat, this single is an ideal song to dance to. However, "El Costo De La Vida" is also a reflection about the cost of living and the struggles that regular people have to deal with. In other words, this song offers a critical picture of Latin American society.

5. "Bachata Rosa"...
If not the most romantic tune, "Bachata Rosa" is definitely at the top of the most romantic Juan Luis Guerra songs. The melody is marked by the typical Bachata-Bolero sound that Juan Luis Guerra has established as one of his most distinctive musical features. The poetic lyrics are about expressing one's love.

4. "Ojala Que Llueva"...
"Ojala Que Llueva" is one of the most popular and beautiful songs ever written by Juan Luis Guerra. Besides the pleasant Merengue beat that defines the whole melody, the lyrics of this song are a poem that describes the beautiful and lively natural landscape of the Dominican Republic. I think this is one of the best pieces ever produced in Latin music.

3. "Burbujas De Amor"...
Just like "Bachata Rosa," this song is also at the top of the most romantic Juan Luis Guerra songs. "Burbujas De Amor," which is also defined by the Bachata-Bolero style we previously mentioned, is an essential track of the early repertoire produced by the Dominican superstar. This song is also one of the most influential tracks in the long and successful career of Juan Luis Guerra.

2. "Bachata En Fukuoka"...
"Bachata En Fukuoka" is the biggest hit included in the album A Son De Guerra. The melody is shaped by a nice Bachata beat and the lyrics, which include some Japanese words, provide Bachata with a sort of global appeal. Musically speaking, this is one of the best Juan Luis Guerra songs. There is also a nice Salsa segment that adds a nice flavor to this song.

1. "La Bilirrubina"...
Another track from his early repertoire, "La Bilirrubina" is one of the most enduring Juan Luis Guerra songs. Its fast Merengue beat makes of this track another ideal song for a night of dancing. Because of its picturesque lyrics, "La Bilirubina" is one of the most peculiar love songs ever written. In a funny way, it describes the symptoms related to being in love, which includes a high level of bilirubin.

Latin Urban music and Bachata brought the top nominees for the 2012 Billboard Latin Music Awards. With 16 nominations, Reggaeton star Don Omar topped the list of finalists followed by the popular rapper Pitbull who got 14 nominations.

In terms of Tropical music, this edition of the Billboard Latin Music Awards reinforced the already popular face-off between Prince Royce and Romeo Santos. The Mexican band Mana and the Colombian Pop star Shakira also grabbed a significant amount of nominations. The following is the full list of nomineess for the annual edition of the Billboard Latin Music Awards.

Artist of the Year:

• Mana
• Prince Royce
• Romeo Santos
• Shakira

Latin Artist of the Year, New:

• Calibre 50
• Il Volo
• La Adictiva Banda San Jose de Mesillas
• Violento

Song of the Year:

• Don Omar & Lucenzo - "Danza Kuduro"
• Don Omar - "Taboo"
• Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer - "Give Me Everything"
• Prince Royce "Corazon Sin Cara"

Song of the Year, Vocal Event:

• Jennifer Lopez featuring Pitbull - "Ven A Bailar"
• Don Omar & Lucenzo - "Danza Kuduro"
• Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer - "Give Me Everything"
• Romeo Santos featuring Usher - "Promise"

Songs Artist of the Year, Male:

• Enrique Iglesias
• Don Omar
• Pitbull
• Prince Royce

Songs Artist of the Year, Female:

• Alejandra Guzman
• Jennifer Lopez
• Jenni Rivera
• Shakira

Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Julion Alvarez y Su Norteño Banda
• La Adictiva Banda San Jose de Mesillas
• Mana
• Wisin y Yandel

Airplay Song of the Year:

• La Adictiva Banda San Jose de Mesillas - "Te Amo y Te Amo"
• Don Omar - "Taboo"
• Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer - "Give Me Everything"
• Prince Royce "Corazon Sin Cara"

Digital Song of the Year:

• Don Omar & Lucenzo - "Danza Kuduro"
• Pitbull - "Bon Bon"
• Shakira featuring El Cata - "Rabiosa"
• Shakira Featuring Freshleyground - "Waka Waka"

Hot Latin Songs Airplay Label of the Year:

• Disa
• Fonovisa
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latino

Hot Latin Songs Airplay Imprint of the Year:

• Disa
• Fonovisa
• Machete
• Sony Music Latin

Crossover Artist of the Year:

• LMFAO
• Katy Perry
• Rihanna
• Alexandra Stan

Album of the Year:

• Cristian Castro - Viva El Principe
• Mana - Drama y Luz
• Prince Royce - Prince Royce
• Romeo Santos - Formula: Vol. 1

Albums Artist of the Year, Male:

• Cristian Castro
• Gerardo Ortiz
• Prince Royce
• Romeo Santos

Albums Artist of the Year, Female:

• Natalia Jimenez
• Jenni Rivera
• Shakira
• Gloria Trevi

Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Camila
• Los Bukis
• Mana
• Wisin y Yandel

Digital Album of the Year:

• Mana - Drama y Luz
• Prince Royce Prince Royce
• Romeo Santos - Formula: Vol. 1
• Shakira - Sale El Sol

Top Latin Albums Label of the Year:

• Dasmi
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latin Entertainment
• Warner Latina

Top Latin Albums Imprint of the Year:

• Disa
• Fonovisa
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latino

Latin Pop Song of the Year:

• Jennifer Lopez featuring Pitbull - "Ven A Bailar"
• Mana - "Lluvia Al Corazon"
• Don Omar - "Taboo"
• Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer - "Give Me Everything"

Latin Pop Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Enrique Iglesias
• Don Omar
• Pitbull
• Shakira

Latin Pop Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Camila
• Mana
• Reik
• Wising y Yandel

Latin Pop Airplay Label of the Year:

• Interscope
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latino
• Warner Latina

Latin Pop Airplay Imprint of the Year:

• Machete
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latino
• Warner Latina

Latin Pop Album of the Year:

• Mana - Drama y Luz
• Enrique Iglesias - Euphoria
• Ricky Martin - Musica + Alma + Sexo
• Cristian Castro - Viva El Principe

Latin Pop Albums Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Cristian Castro
• Enrique Iglesias
• Ricky Martin
• Shakira

Latin Pop Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Camila
• Il Volo
• Mana
• Reik

Latin Pop Albums Label of the Year:

• Bullseye
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latin Entertainment
• Warner Latina

Latin Pop Albums Imprint of the Year:

• Epic
• Universal Music Latino
• Sony Music Latin
• Warner Latina

Tropical Airplay Song of the Year:

• Don Omar & Lucenzo - "Danza Kuduro"
• Prince Royce - "Corazon Sin Cara"
• Romeo Santos featuring Usher - "Promise"
• Romeo Santos - "You"

Tropical Songs Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Don Omar
• Prince Royce
• Romeo Santos
• Shakira

Tropical Airplay Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Aventura
• Chino y Nacho
• Mana
• Wisin y Yandel

Tropical Songs Airplay Label of the Year:

• Sony Music Latin
• Top Stop
• Universal Music Latino
• Venemusic

Tropical Songs Airplay Imprint of the Year:

• Machete
• Siente
• Sony Music Latin
• Top Stop

Tropical Album of the Year:

• Aventura - 14 + 14
• Romeo Santos - Formula: Vol. 1"
• Hector Acosta - Obligame
• Prince Royce - Prince Royce

Tropical Albums Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Hector Acosta
• Prince Royce
• Romeo Santos
• Charlie Zaa

Tropical Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Aventura
• El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico
• N'Klabe
• Nuevo Voces

Tropical Albums Label of the Year:

• The Entity
• Popular
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Latin Entertainment

Tropical Albums Imprint of the Year:

• Premium Latin
• Popular
• Sony Music Latin
• Top Stop

Regional Mexican Song of the Year:

• Julion Alvarez y Su Norteño Banda - "Olvidame"
• La Adictiva Banda San Jose de Mesillas - "Te Amo y Te Amo"
• La Original Banda el Limon de Salvador Lizarraga - "Di Que Regresaras"
• Fidel Rueda - "Me Encantaria""

Regional Mexican Songs Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Larry Hernandez
• Gerardo Ortiz
• Espinoza Paz
• Fidel Rueda

Regional Mexican Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Julion Alvarez y Su Norteño Banda
• La Adictiva Banda San Jose de Mesillas
• La Arrolladora Banda El Limon
• La Original Banda el Limon de Salvador Lizarraga

Regional Mexican Airplay Label of the Year:

• ASL
• Disa
• Fonovisa
• Sony Music Latin

Regional Mexican Airplay Imprint of the Year:

• Disa
• Fonovisa
• Mendieta
• Sony Music Latin

Regional Mexican Album of the Year:

• Los Bukis - 35 ANIVERSARIO
• Gerardo Ortiz - Entre Dios y el Diablo
• Los Tigres Del Norte - TR3S Presents: MTV Unplugged Los Tigres Del Norte
• Various Artists - Las Bandas Romanticas

Regional Mexican Albums Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Larry Hernandez
• Gerardo Ortiz
• Jenni Rivera
• Joan Sebastian

Regional Mexican Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• El Trono De Mexico
• Intocable
• Los Bukis
• Los Tigres Del Norte

Regional Mexican Albums Label of the Year:

• Dasmi
• Platino
• Sony Music Latin
• Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Regional Mexican Albums Imprint of the Year:

• Del
• Disa
• Fonovisa
• Good I

Latin Rhythm Song of the Year:

• Don Omar & Lucenzo - "Danza Kuduro"
• Don Omar - "Taboo"
• Pitbull - "Bon Bon"
• Wisin y Yandel - "Estoy Enamorado"

Latin Rhythm Songs Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Daddy Yankee
• Don Omar
• Pitbull
• Tito 'El Bambino'

Latin Rhythm Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Alexis & Fido
• Chino y Nacho
• RKM & Ken-Y
• Wisin y Yandel

Latin Rhythm Airplay Label of the Year:

• El Cartel
• Sony Music Latin
• Siente
• Universal Music Latino

Latin Rhythm Airplay Imprint of the Year:

• El Cartel
• Machete
• Orfanato
• Siente

Latin Rhythm Album of the Year:

• Don Omar - Don Omar Presents: Meet The Orphans: THE KING IS BACK
• Pitbull - Armando
• Tito 'El Bambino' - Invencible
• Wisin y Yandel - Los Vaqueros: El Regreso

Latin Rhythm Albums Artist of the Year, Solo:

• Daddy Yankee
• Don Omar
• Pitbull
• Tito 'El Bambino'

Latin Rhythm Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group:

• Alexis & Fido
• Chino y Nacho
• RKM & Ken-Y
• Wisin y Yandel

Latin Rhythm Albums Label of the Year:

• Platino
• Sony Music Latin
• Ultra
• Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Latin Rhythm Albums Imprint of the Year:

• Machete
• Pina
• Siente
• WY

Latin Touring Artist of the Year:

• Enrique Iglesias
• Mana
• Ricky Martin
• Luis Miguel

Very often, artists who reach star level with a debut album fail miserably with the follow up work. Avoiding this trap was exactly the challenge that Phase II posed to the popular Bachata singer Prince Royce. After listening to Phase II, I think Prince Royce was able to meet that challenge with a production that consolidates the style of his self-titled debut album. The following is an overview of the way he managed that challenge.

Keeping The StylePhase II is an album that maintains the style Prince Royce consolidated with his previous work. This 'conservative' approach usually pays well for artists who hit the market with a hugely popular debut album. Just like the previous album, Phase II is a bilingual production defined by its romantic appeal.

Thanks to songs like the already popular hit "Las Cosas Pequenas" and additional singles such as "Eres Tu," "Dulce" and "Mi Habitacion," Prince Royce is able to reinforce a unique style defined by his fresh voice, romantic style, and soft Bachata arrangements.

Innovative Stuff Although Phase II maintains the style that Prince Royce has been defining since its debut work, there are a couple of songs featuring innovative elements that enhance the appeal of the whole album. One of them is "Incondicional," a single featuring a nice mix of traditional Mexican music with Bachata. Even though the sounds of Bachata prevails in the whole melody, the guitars and trumpets in the background add a nice flavor to this song.

Another interesting song is "Memorias," a track that combines Bolero with Bachata that reminds me of some of the famous Bachata-Bolero songs produced by Juan Luis Guerra. Both "Incondicional" and "Memorias" provide very romantic lyrics. This romanticism is one of the most evident imprints of this production.

Bachata Pop Phase II is marked by a sound where very often Bachata meets Latin Pop music. There is a good amount of tracks on this album that could easily make it to the top 40 charts as Pop songs rather than Bachata tracks.

Some of these singles include titles like "Addicted," "Close To You" and "It's My Time". In fact, if you listen to these songs without knowing who Prince Royce is, you would not be able to guess this is an album dealing with Bachata music.

Although I personally like the soft melody and nice guitar playing of the song "Addicted," I think the other tracks represent the weakest side of this album. They sound a bit too mainstream and commercial to me. I think there are thousands of songs out there with the beats of those tracks. In other words, I think Prince Royce is as his best when he gets closer to the sounds of Bachata.

'Phase II' - Bottom Line I think the most important thing Prince Royce achieved with Phase II was that of producing an album capable of meeting the expectations that he created with his debut album. With Phase II, the Bachata star consolidated his unique style and I would not be surprised if several of the tracks included on this album become hit songs in the near future.

Somehow, Phase II sounds a bit more Pop than Prince Royce. This element is reinforced by tracks that have a very mainstream, commercial style. Although I think this is the weakest part of this album, this can be normal for an artist who has transformed Bachata music into a mainstream phenomenon.

'Phase II' - Best Tracks

• "Incondicional"
  
• "Las Cosas Pequenas"
  
• "Addicted"
  
• "Memorias"
  
• "Hecha Para Mi"
  
• "Dulce"
  
• "Mi Habitacion"