Colombian Artists Prove To Be an Unstoppable Force on the Global Music Scene
From Shakira‘s magnetic moves to Juanes‘s electrifying Spanish rock and Carlos Vives‘s vibrant blend of pop and vallenato, Colombian music resonates globally. Undeniably iconic, Colombian artists invite the world to groove and sing along in Spanish. Across the globe, fans are familiar with the meaning of “Tusa” and feeling “tragados,” and they frequently utter “Mor.” It’s hardly surprising that 84% of Colombian artists’ Spotify streams come from international listeners.
The distinctive sounds, spirited expressions, and dynamic personalities from this Latin American country have effortlessly become favorites worldwide, with Mexico, the U.S., and Spain leading as the top-streaming countries of Colombian artists. There’s been a 206% increase in Colombian streams internationally when you compare listens from 2018 to the present. Genres like urban, pop, vallenato, música popular colombiana and salsa are some of the most popular.
Colombia is regarded as a beacon of culture and creativity, reaching new heights through the power of global exposure. Spotify has played a crucial role in this, enabling anyone, wherever they call home, to dance to a paisa rhythm or belt out songs with the passion of a barranquillera.
On Spotify, more than 830 million user-generated playlists feature at least one song by a Colombian artist.
Ultimately, Colombian talent—refusing to conform to a single genre—has charmed the world and proudly carries the “Made in Colombia” flag.
Want to know what it means to be Made in Colombia for different artists? For the Record talked to Carlos Vives, Blessd, Elsa y Elmar, and Nico Hernández.
Carlos Vives
What does it mean to be Made in Colombia?
It means being someone who embraces incredible diversity. The coolest part is just that: its diversity.
What do you think Colombia sounds like?
It sounds like music from the heart.
Share your best Made in Colombia moment.
It happened with a recent song I released called “Eso es mondar.” Although it’s a universally relatable story, it has to do with our Hispanic America and what connects us through our language. It’s definitely a very Colombian expression, especially from the coastal region.
Blessd
What does it mean to be Made in Colombia?
It’s all about representing who you are, where you come from, your neighborhood, your streets, and the culture that makes us so grand.
What’s the most “chimba” thing about Made in Colombia music?
The coolest part is that energy, our flow, and representing the sounds.
Name the song that best explains what it means to be Made in Colombia.
“Medallo” could be, it’s a song that has that flowcito.
Elsa Y Elmar
What does it mean to be Made in Colombia?
It means having this attitude of joy, creativity, loving your family, the people, the land, the great weather, and the music in your blood.
What’s the coolest thing about Made in Colombia music?
It’s how diverse it is. We’ve got everything from Caribbean sounds to guabina, reggaeton, Pacific rhythms, and even music from Amazonian communities. Honestly, it’s the best.
Name the song that best explains what it means to be Made in Colombia.
“La Plata” by Diomedes Díaz and many other hits by Binomio de Oro.
Nico Hernandez
What does it mean to be Made in Colombia?
It’s about being kind, pushing forward, celebrating for any reason, and making friends everywhere. Being Made in Colombia means being talented, creative, rooted in tradition, and multicultural.
What’s the coolest thing about Made in Colombia music?
That it’s made by Colombians. We all share a unique essence, a unique force that drives us to achieve the impossible.
Name the song that best explains what it means to be Made in Colombia.
“La Invitación” by Jorge Celedón.
To hear these artists and discover so much more Colombian sound, tune into our Made in Colombia playlist.
