The Best of Latin Music in 2008: At a Glance

Do you know that 2008 was a very successful year for Latin Music? While some of the old stars made a come back with their albums and singles, some emerging talents found their way to acquire the crown for best singers or musicians of the decade. The era was marked with the release of some superior albums. In a way 2008 can be called the "Year of the Woman" since many female performers have contributed a lot to Latin Music in this year.

Mediocre

Ximena Sarinana emerged as the music queen of this year with her new album "Mediocre". A student of the Berklee College of Music, Sarinana is one of the most known faces among the Mexican celebrities. In her songs you can find a perfect combination of jazz and pop music. Her sweet voice will take you to a dream world but the sarcastic tone will not let you forget the harsh reality.

MTV Unplugged

"MTV Unplugged" by Julieta Venegas is also worth of mentioning. It has topped many of the popular music charts of Latin America. This album offers a magical presentation of the acoustic band directed by Morelenbaum. "MTV Unplugged" has made her stand out as the greatest pop performer of the era.

Shake Away

Lila Down's "Shake Away" has done a good job in the music chart of 2008. This album once again reflects her political conscience. This album presents a fine blend of jazz and indigenous Mexican mysticism. Each and every song of this album speaks of Down's commitment to the art of music.

Calle 13, 'Los de Atras Vienen Conmigo'

Calle 13, 'Los de Atras Vienen Conmigo' got huge recognition as the album by the 'bad boys' of Puerto Rico. Featuring urban pop this album was quite liked by the young crowd. Very intense and precise this album was very well executed.

Willie Colón, 'El Malo, Vol. 2: Prisioneros del Mambo

Lone Wolf, the father of Salsa came back with his 'Willie Colón, 'El Malo, Vol. 2: Prisioneros del Mambo'. A brilliant combination of street poet values (typical to the artists of the 70s) and contemporary cutting-edge technology is sure to leave you spellbound.

Aterciopelados

Aterciopelados, 'Rio' (Nacional) by Andrea Echeverri and Hector Buitrago once again made it clear that any local political issue can be seen in the backdrop of global scenario. They have presented much new thoughts and vibes wrapped up in tuneful lyrics.

Vino

2008 had been a successful year for Robi Rosa, the greatest rock star of Latin America. Being rooted in Puerto Rico this genius has made a remarkable entry with his "Vino". He is one of the most powerful singers of Latin America. The songs of this album portray Rosa's thirst for inner vision.

Awake & Cultural Survival

Another popular works that have made a striking entry in the Latin Music world are "Awake" by Miguel Zenon and "Cultural Survival" by David Sanchez. They have initiated a new era of African diasporic tradition. Their works reflect their love for their island culture. The music produced by them has taken jazz to a new direction.

Few other mention worthy works of the year include "Esperanza", "45 (EMI)", "Encanto", "In The Heights" and many more.