PULSE CHECK

Salsa’s Rhythmic Revival: A New Generation Discovers the Genre’s Timeless Appeal

March 11, 2025

Salsa is making a comeback, captivating new listeners with its infectious energy and compelling narratives. Spotify data underscores this trend, revealing a global surge in salsa streams of more than 140% over the past five years, with U.S. consumption nearly doubling.

What’s driving the resurgence? Look no further than Gen Z. Listeners aged 18 to 24 are now the second-largest demographic streaming salsa worldwide, demonstrating a clear embrace of its unique sound.

While mainstream stars like Bad Bunny and Rauw Alejandro have introduced salsa to wider audiences, artists like Christian Alicea, Luis Figueroa, Moa Rivera, Luis Vázquez, and Jonathan Moly are taking the music in new directions. They’re blending tradition with modern sounds, keeping salsa fresh and exciting.

Of course, the classics endure. Tracks like “Lloraras” by Dimensión Latina and Oscar D’León and “Ven Devórame Otra Vez” by Lalo Rodríguez continue to resonate with listeners, consistently ranking among the top-streamed salsa songs.

Salsa’s growing footprint

The genre’s rising popularity is evident across the U.S. In 2024, several cities experienced remarkable growth in salsa consumption on Spotify, including:

    • Reno, NV (124%)
    • Virginia Beach, VA (123%)
    • Midland, TX (114%)
    • Columbia, SC (102%)
    • Baltimore, MD (101%)

Top tracks and shared favorites

Here’s a glimpse into what listeners are currently enjoying on Spotify:

Most-streamed salsa songs (past year, globally)

    1. “BAILE INoLVIDABLE” by Bad Bunny
    2. “Lloraras” by Dimensión Latina and Oscar D’León
    3. “Una Vida Pasada” by Camilo and Carin Leon
    4. “Virgen” by Adolescent’s Orquesta
    5. “Tu Con El” by Frankie Ruiz

Most-shared salsa songs (past year, globally)

    1. “BAILE INoLVIDABLE” by Bad Bunny
    2. “Tú Con Él” by Rauw Alejandro
    3. “Oh Que Sera” by Willie Colón
    4. “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony
    5. “Virgen” by Adolescent’s Orquesta

Take a dip into Spotify’s Salsa Nation playlist to discover the diverse sounds the genre has to offer, from classic anthems to contemporary hits.