Billboard Magazine recently published its list of the 100 Best Latin Artists of the 21st Century, with several Colombians standing out for their remarkable contributions to the industry.
Billboard evaluated the performance of Latin artists across its music charts over a 25-year period, from January 2000 to December 2024, taking into account their chart impact, consistency, and cultural influence.
Colombians in Billboard’s Top 100 Latin Artists of the 21st Century
The list features artists who have shaped the direction of Latin music in the new millennium. The top five includes Bad Bunny, Romeo Santos, Daddy Yankee, Enrique Iglesias, and Marco Antonio Solis. The first Colombian to appear is J Balvin, ranking sixth.
Billboard highlighted J Balvin’s key role in bringing reggaeton to global audiences, with hits such as “Mi Gente” and “Ginza” breaking cultural and generational barriers. He holds the record for the most No. 1 songs on Billboard’s Latin Airplay chart, with 38 singles reaching the top. The magazine also praised his ability to continually reinvent himself and stay relevant in an ever-evolving music industry.
Shakira, ranked seventh, remains one of the most influential Latin artists of the last few decades. Billboard recognized her longevity on the Top Latin Albums and Hot Latin Songs charts for over 20 years. Hits such as “Hips Don’t Lie,” “La Tortura,” “Chantaje,” and “Waka Waka” have made her an international icon. The publication also noted her signature blend of pop, rock, reggaeton, and traditional Colombian rhythms, as well as her role as a global ambassador for Latin music.
In ninth place is Juanes, who burst onto the international scene with his debut album “Fijate Bien” in 2000. Since then, he has remained a constant presence on Billboard’s charts with albums such as “Un Dia Normal” and “Mi Sangre”, featuring timeless hits such as “A Dios le Pido”, “La Camisa Negra”, and “Es Por Ti.” Billboard praised his ability to merge rock with traditional Colombian sounds such as vallenato and cumbia, creating a unique identity. He is also one of the most awarded artists in Latin Grammy history, reinforcing his artistic legacy.
Other Colombian artists featured in the ranking
At No. 12, Karol G stands out as one of the most successful female artists in the urban genre. Billboard emphasized her meteoric rise since 2017, marked by global hits such as “Tusa,” “Bichota,” “Provenza,” and “Ahora Me Llama.” The magazine also highlighted her role in redefining women’s place in reggaeton, a genre traditionally dominated by men. Her global reach and collaborations with stars such as Nicki Minaj, Bad Bunny, and Shakira cement her image as a symbol of empowerment and authenticity.
Maluma, ranked 26th, was recognized for his versatility and international success. Since his 2015 debut album “Pretty Boy, Dirty Boy,” he has scored major hits such as “Felices los 4,” “Hawai,” and “Borro Cassette.” Billboard praised his ability to transcend musical borders through collaborations with artists such as Madonna, Ricky Martin, The Weeknd, and Shakira.
At No. 50, Carlos Vives was acknowledged for revolutionizing modern vallenato, fusing it with pop and rock to reach new generations. Songs such as “Fruta Fresca,” “Volvi a Nacer,” and “La Bicicleta” have helped maintain his enduring legacy. Billboard highlighted his adaptability and continuous innovation throughout his decades-long career.
Feid, appearing at No. 90, was celebrated for his distinctive sonic and visual identity, marked by his iconic fluorescent green aesthetic. Since 2020, he has made a name for himself with hits such as “Feliz Cumpleaños Ferxxo” and “Classy 101.” Billboard noted his authenticity and deep emotional connection with younger audiences.
Finally, Kali Uchis rounds out the Colombian representation at No. 97. Her seamless blend of English and Spanish, and her fusion of genres such as R&B, soul, reggaeton, and alternative pop, have made her one of the most original voices in Latin music. Tracks such as “Telepatia” and “Muñekita” have cemented her as a bold and innovative artist on the global stage.