The end of the year is always a time to reflect on what helped us to make it through. One thing people have come to expect is President Barack Obama’s annual lists of books, music, and movies that he enjoyed during the year. This year, like in other years, some Latine musicians made the list and we love to see it!
Obama’s end-of-year lists are always a moment and we can always expect to see some diversity. This year, Obama gave a nod to “Pepas” by Farruko, “YA” by YENDRY, “Volví” by Aventura featuring Bad Bunny, and “Patria Y Vida” by Yotuel, Gente de Zona, Descemer Bueno, Maykel Osorbo, and el Funky.
Latin music is truly in a renaissance moment and the growing popularity is palpable. Some of the hottest artists these days are in Latin music spreading our culture to the world. Seeing some of our favorites making it to Obama’s annual is a small acknowledgment of our community in a big way.
“I’ve always enjoyed listening to a wide variety of music, so it’s no surprise that I listened to a little bit of everything this year,” Obama wrote on his Instagram post. “I hope you find a new artist or song to add to your own playlist.”
“Pepas” was a musical phenomenon in 2021 with several DJs jumping in to make their own mixes of the hit song. Steve Aoki, Benny Benassi, David Guetta, Robin Schulz, and Tiësto all took a swing at remixing Farruko’s song.
“Having all of these globally renowned DJs produce their own remix version of ‘Pepas’ is a testament that music is universal,” Farruko said in a statement. “When I recorded this song, I knew it was going to be good, but in the manner that it has impacted around the world and people from all walks of life is really something incredible.”