When it comes to the music map of Latin America, Argentina is mainly recognized for its rock artists. In the 20th century, musicians – such as, Charly García, Luis Alberto Spinetta, known as “The Father of Argentinian Rock,” and Pappo – set off the country’s rock scene, which quickly became very popular. Soda Stereo emerged in the ‘80s to conquer Argentina and beyond. In the early 2000s, Él Mató a un Policía Motorizado, and bands on their record label, Laptra, formed a strong independent scene that lead Argentinian rock music to a minimalistic sound where vulnerability played a huge role.
However, is Argentina really a rock country? Although pop and rock are easily blended, it’s easy to identify many great pop artists in the history of its music scene, such as Virus, known for their classic hit, “Miranda.” Charly García is known as pianist before a guitarist, and in the ‘80s, you can hear him embracing synths on his albums Clics modernos and Piano Bar.
Within the past few years, artists that have often been overlooked have reclaimed their pop roots. Such artists are proud to say they make pop music, and even though they are not nearly as mainstream as artists like Lali or Tini, they are changing the music scene in Argentina. This new crop of artists believe that dancing is an important part of their music career, as well as their live show production, wardrobe and elements that make up their overall aesthetic.
These are five emerging artists invigorating Argentina’s pop reputation.
1
Lucía Tacchetti
Lucía Tacchetti started her music career with a ukulele. She began recording acoustic songs inspired by the sounds of Natailia Lafourcade and Julieta Venegas. Soon after, she found the beauty of synth. On her latest album, VOL.3D, she uses them to combine dancing with introspective reflections.
2
Violeta Castillo
Violeta Castillo’s Instagram bio simply states: “hago pop.” Such statement is apparent as soon as you play her debut album, Errorws de tipeo (It purposely includes a typo.) Synths and electric guitars interweave while the vocals are on the look for new melodies to change the song’s direction. Her voice is at times absent, and her lyrics are often filled with a curiosity to understand how to perceive reality, herself, and the people around her.
3
Juan Ingaramo
If Argentina has always been about “rock nacional,” Juan Ingaramo wants to make Pop Nacional – such is the title of his 2014 debut album which features his first, classic pop songs. He’s evolved his music throughout the years to include trap, reggaeton, and cuarteto (the native genre from his home-province Córdoba). All these genres are part of his latest album, Bestseller.
4
LOUTA
After he released his self-titled debut album in 2017, LOUTA quickly became the most hyped artist in Argentina. Stream-of-consciousness lyrics, adlibs, and rap verses, combined with delicate melodies are part of his music. But his most attractive side is present in his fantastic live shows where theatre plays a huge role.
5
Salvapantallas
Salvapantallas began as an acoustic covers project on YouTube, where their videos racked up several millions of views. Last year, they teamed up with Juan Ingaramo who produced their debut EP. As a result, their sweet melodies earned more dynamics thanks to the featured electronic beats and synths.