The Most Famous Latin Female Singers of All Time

Latin music has gifted the world with rhythms that make you want to dance and ballads that touch the soul. At the heart of this vibrant scene are the powerful voices of its female artists. From salsa legends to pop superstars, these women have broken barriers, topped charts, and inspired millions with their talent and tenacity.

This post celebrates the most famous Latin female singers who have shaped the industry. We will explore the careers of these iconic performers, highlighting their groundbreaking achievements and lasting impact on music. Whether they’re selling out stadiums or using their platform for change, these famous Hispanic women have created a legacy that continues to influence artists today.

Famous Latin Female Singers

Here’s a look at some of the most influential and famous Latin American female singers who have left an indelible mark on the music world.

Shakira

A true global phenomenon, Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter who has redefined what it means to be a crossover star. Her 2001 album, Laundry Service, catapulted her to international fame. Known for her powerful voice, unique choreography, and versatile musical style, Shakira has consistently reinvented her sound.

She has an impressive collection of accolades, including 15 Latin Grammys and four Grammys. With over 50 entries on the Hot Latin Songs chart and seven No. 1s on the Top Latin Albums chart, her commercial success is undeniable. In 2023, she was named Woman of the Year at Billboard’s inaugural Latin Women in Music event, cementing her status as a music icon.

Gloria Estefan

For over four decades, Cuban-American singer Gloria Estefan has been a force in the music industry. With the Miami Sound Machine, she created a unique sound that blended Latin rhythms with English pop, producing dozens of chart hits. Her Grammy-winning album Mi Tierra is a testament to her elegant lyrics and ability to infuse her cultural roots into her music.

Estefan has placed 29 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 and 30 tracks on Hot Latin Songs. In a landmark achievement, she became the first Latina woman inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, recognizing her immense contribution to music.

Selena

The “Queen of Tejano Music,” Selena Quintanilla revolutionized the genre by fusing her Mexican roots with contemporary sounds. Her universal appeal and incredible talent earned her a massive following. Selena achieved seven No. 1 albums on the Top Latin Albums chart.

Her posthumous album, Dreaming of You (1995), became the first bilingual album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, a historic moment for Latin music. Her Grammy for Best Mexican-American Album for Selena Live! highlights her incredible, though tragically short, career.

Celia Cruz

Known as the “Queen of Salsa,” Afro-Cuban singer Celia Cruz defined the genre for generations. Her mesmerizing stage presence, rich contralto voice, and extravagant outfits made her an unforgettable performer. With over 70 albums, Cruz is one of the most influential female figures in the history of Afro-Cuban music.

Her trademark cry of “¡Azucar!” became her signature, and she landed 28 entries on Billboard’s Tropical Albums chart. Her legacy as a musical pioneer continues to inspire artists worldwide.

Karol G

A modern superstar, Colombian singer Karol G has taken the music world by storm. She has an astounding 67 entries on the Hot Latin Songs chart, with nine of them reaching No. 1. Her album Mañana Será Bonito made history as the first all-Spanish-language album by a female artist to top the Billboard 200.

Her record-breaking Mañana Será Bonito World Tour grossed over $313 million, showcasing her massive global appeal and cementing her place among the top artists in the world today.

Rocío Dúrcal

Spanish singer Rocío Dúrcal earned her title as the “Queen of Rancheras” through her powerful interpretations of the genre. After starting her career in musical films, she collaborated with legendary songwriters like Juan Gabriel. Her soft yet intense mezzo-soprano vocals captivated audiences across the Spanish-speaking world. In 1999, she was honored with the Billboard Hall of Fame Award.

Jenni Rivera

Jenni Rivera was the most successful woman in the regional Mexican genre on the Billboard charts. The Mexican-American singer had 19 entries on the Top Latin Albums chart, with seven of them hitting No. 1. Known for her powerful voice and candid lyrics, Rivera connected deeply with her fans, earning the nickname “La Diva de la Banda.”

Ana Gabriel

With a career spanning decades, Mexican singer Ana Gabriel is a prolific songwriter and performer. She has charted 20 top 10 hits on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart, including six No. 1s. Her ability to write many of her own successful songs has set her apart as a true artist who continues to record and tour.

Olga Tañón

Puerto Rican singer Olga Tañón is one of the most important voices in tropical music. Known for her energetic personality and captivating performances, she holds the record for the female artist with the most Top 10 entries on the Tropical Airplay chart, with 29 in total.

Mercedes Sosa

Argentine singer Mercedes Sosa was more than a musician; she was a powerful symbol of social justice and freedom. Often called “The Voice of Latin America,” her music resonated with people fighting for change across the continent. Her album Cantora earned her a top 10 spot on Billboard’s Latin Pop Albums chart.

The Queens of Latin Pop (1-10)

1. Gloria Estefan

The Cuban-American powerhouse stands as the undisputed pioneer who brought Latin pop to mainstream American audiences. As the lead vocalist of Miami Sound Machine, Estefan popularized Latin rhythms with infectious hits like “Conga” and “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You.” Her ability to seamlessly blend disco, pop, and traditional Cuban music while singing in Spanish, Portuguese, and English made her a global icon. Estefan’s influence extends far beyond her chart success—she opened doors for countless Latin artists in the American market.

2. Selena Quintanilla-Pérez

Known simply as Selena, the Queen of Tejano music remains one of the most beloved Mexican-American entertainers of all time. Her powerful vocals, magnetic stage presence, and unique style revolutionized Tejano music and brought it to international attention. Songs like “Como La Flor,” “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” and “Amor Prohibido” showcase her incredible range and cultural pride. Despite her tragic death at age 23, Selena’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans.

3. Shakira

The Colombian superstar has achieved unprecedented global success with her eclectic fusion of Latin pop, rock, and traditional folklore. Shakira’s distinctive voice, coupled with her ability to sing in multiple languages, has made her one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time with over 85 million records sold worldwide.

Hits like “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Whenever, Wherever,” and “Waka Waka” demonstrate her versatility and cross-cultural appeal. Beyond music, her philanthropic work and strong cultural identity have made her a global ambassador for Latin culture.

4. Celia Cruz

The Cuban-born “Queen of Salsa” earned her title through decades of electrifying performances and her signature call of “¡Azúcar!” Cruz rose to fame in Cuba during the 1950s as a singer of guarachas, earning the nickname “La Guarachera de Cuba.” Her move to the United States opened new doors for Latin music in American culture. Songs like “La Vida Es Un Carnaval,” “Quimbara,” and “Rie Y Llora” remain salsa classics that continue to fill dance floors worldwide.

5. Thalía

Often called the “Queen of Latin Pop,” this Mexican singer, actress, and businesswoman has sold over 25 million records worldwide. Thalía’s combination of pop sensibility and Latin rhythms has made her a household name throughout Latin America and among Latino communities globally. Her telenovela career alongside her music success created a multimedia empire that influenced entertainment culture across the Spanish-speaking world.

6. Jennifer Lopez

While known for her acting and business ventures, J.Lo’s impact on Latin music cannot be understated. This American singer broke barriers for Latino Americans in Hollywood and music, becoming one of the most influential entertainers of her generation. Her ability to seamlessly transition between English and Spanish-language music helped bridge cultural gaps and bring Latin sounds to mainstream pop.

7. Paulina Rubio

One of Mexico’s biggest pop stars of all time, Paulina Rubio earned her place through decades of chart-topping hits and dynamic performances. Her evolution from teen idol to mature artist showcases the longevity possible in Latin pop music. Rubio’s influence on Mexican pop culture extends beyond music into fashion and entertainment.

8. Jenni Rivera

The late Mexican-American singer broke barriers in the male-dominated genre of banda music. Rivera’s powerful voice and unapologetic lyrics about female empowerment made her a role model for Mexican-American women. Her tragic death in 2012 only solidified her legendary status in regional Mexican music.

9. Ana Bárbara

A leading force in banda, norteña, and grupera music, Ana Bárbara has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional Mexican genres. Her powerful vocals and stage presence have made her one of the most respected artists in regional Mexican music.

10. Milly Quezada

Dubbed the “Queen of Merengue,” this Dominican singer helped popularize merengue music internationally. Quezada’s energetic performances and infectious rhythms have made her a beloved figure in Caribbean music.

Rising Stars and Modern Icons

11. Karol G

This Colombian reggaeton and Latin pop singer represents the new generation of female Latin artists. Her collaborations with major artists and solo hits have made her one of the most prominent voices in contemporary Latin music.

12. Becky G

With her versatile voice that seamlessly bridges cultures and sounds, Becky G has become a powerful voice for young Latinos. Her ability to switch between English and Spanish while maintaining authenticity has earned her a dedicated following.

13. Anitta

The Brazilian funk artist has invested significant time perfecting her Spanish and English while exploring various sounds without losing her Brazilian roots. Anitta’s international collaborations have helped bring Brazilian music to global audiences.

14. Natalia Lafourcade

One of the most influential Mexican singer-songwriters and producers of the 21st century, Lafourcade has revitalized traditional Mexican music for contemporary audiences. Her artistic vision and cultural preservation efforts have earned critical acclaim and multiple Grammy awards.

15. Kali Uchis

This Colombian-American powerhouse blends R&B, soul, and Latin influences to create a unique sound that appeals to diverse audiences. Her bilingual approach and genre-blending style represent the future of Latin pop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the biggest Latin female singer?

Shakira is often considered the biggest Latin female singer globally. Her massive crossover success, record-breaking album sales, and numerous awards, including 15 Latin Grammys and four Grammys, make her one of the most successful artists of all time.

Who is the Queen of Latino music?

While many artists have earned royal titles, Celia Cruz is widely regarded as the “Queen of Salsa,” and Selena is known as the “Queen of Tejano Music.” Both have had a monumental impact on their respective genres and the broader landscape of Latin music.

Who is the hottest female singer right now?

Karol G is currently one of the hottest female singers in the world. Her album Mañana Será Bonito made history, and her world tour has been a massive commercial success, solidifying her position as a leading artist in today’s music scene.