The boom period, lasting roughly from 1999 to 2001, is still vividly remembered as a distinct era, despite the fact that “Latin pop” in itself is a tricky and rather vague term. The song wasn’t only the biggest single of Martin’s career it also opened the door for other artists to score huge Latin-influenced hits of their own over the next couple of years, ushering in what has been known as the “Latin pop boom.” 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, the country’s popular barometer for musical trends and wider social shifts. On that date, Ricky Martin’s song “Livin’ la Vida Loca” reached the No.
On May 8, 1999, the US officially embraced Latin music as part of its mainstream cultural landscape. This is the unofficial, incomplete story of Latin pop. How did that song came to define an era, and what legacy it has left in the decades since? Well, I can try to answer. 1 song in the US, after conquering virtually everywhere else. That’s when a Puerto Rican teen idol turned soap star had the No.
But that wasn’t always the case, not until 20 years ago (plus a few weeks or so). No matter where you are in the world, you’ve probably heard something with Spanish lyrics or a Caribbean beat within the past week.