From Ivy Queen’s feminist anthems of the early 2000s, to Amara La Negra’s recent, catchy summer songs, the women of reggaeton have never ceased to create dance songs that empower us all. Here’s your ORANGE Music guide to the next generation of ladies taking over reggaeton.
Story by Jennifer Hernandez
In 2017, reggaeton exploded into the mainstream with a strong and surprising presence. Although the genre is not new to many folks, its crossover into America’s pop music scene is indicative that reggaeton will continue to influence artists of various genres.
Many people debate the exact origins of this genre, but the sound reflects what is heard in various Caribbean islands and Latin American countries. Dancehall, Spanish reggae and hip-hop can be heard in many of today’s reggaeton songs.
Some of the genre’s most notable artists include Daddy Yankee, Don Omar and J Balvin. For as long as it has been around, reggaeton has been a male-dominated space. Ivy Queen is an exception, and regarded as one of the most popular female artists. Her song, “Quiero Bailar” declares her love for dancing in the club with her girlfriends — without the male gaze.
Since then, Ivy Queen and other ladies have created music with empowering messages that make us dance.
Mi$$il
Photo courtesy of @missil_ on Instagram
This Paraguayan singer has uploaded music and mixes to her Soundcloud since 2014, and is ready to take over reggaeton with her latest single, “Todo Lo Mejor”. Her lyrics are sex positive and femme-centric, as she praises a life full of pleasure and independence. In the era of Soundcloud artists begging for attention, Mi$$il is one you should keep your eye on.
Amara La Negra
Photo courtesy of Aleesha Carter, NBC News
Amara La Negra is not new to the music scene. From a young age, she has performed and sung on live television and pageants. Her music is heavily influenced by her Dominican roots and the Miami culture she grew up with. Her latest singles “Insecure” and “What a Bam Bam” capture the tropical sounds of her hometown and have catchy Spanglish lyrics. The artist hopes to bring more girl power anthems to the scene while also being a role model for other Afro-Latinas.
La Favi
Photo courtesy of Itzel Alejandra Martinez, Remezcla
In what Remezcla calls “sad girl reggaeton”, it is clear that La Favi is making a name and style of her own. Her most recent EP, “Reir Y Llorar” explores themes of unrequited love and loneliness over trap beats. Her melancholy voice along with her goth-inspired looks bring the sub-genre to life. La Favi’s music is the epitome of crying in the club.
Ms. Nina
Photo courtesy of Adriana Roslin, i-D Magazine
Artist, photographer and Tumblr queen, Ms. Nina is an all-around creative talent. During her time in Argentina and Spain, she noticed reggaeton’s popularity, but also heard some of the genre’s sexist themes. Ms. Nina wants to create music that makes women feel sexy and comfortable while partying. When she’s not creating music, she uses Tumblr as an outlet to post her glittery, neon art that’s reminiscent of Lisa Frank.
Becky G
Photo courtesy of Chris Baldwin, Billboard
Becky G has already made her mark in music, but she is just getting started with reggaeton. The singer hails from Inglewood, California and is very proud of her Mexican-American roots. Becky G initially began making pop music in English, but slowly crossed over into the Spanish airwaves. Her music could be described as a mix of catchy, pop elements blended with tropical sounds reminiscent of traditional reggaeton. She’s already worked with big names like Bad Bunny and CNCO, so it’s only a matter of time before we get an album full of reggaeton bops with talented featured artists.
Karol G
Photo courtesy of Telemundo
If you have visited any popular club recently, there’s a chance you’ve heard music from Karol G. The Colombian singer’s busy year has given us irresistible singles with collaborating artists like Nicky Jam and Bad Bunny. Her debut album, “Unstoppable”, is filled with songs that reflect on her life experiences, love and determination as an artist and songwriter. The combination of her reggae-trap blends and confident voice gives fans a new kind of reggaeton experience. Karol G’s songs will surely be played at parties all year long.
Explore these artists and more in our Chicas de Reggaeton playlist.
