Reggaeton — a music style with roots in Panama and Puerto Rico, combining reggae, hip-hop, and Caribbean rhythms. History of the genre, artists, and global popularity.
Reggaeton — is a Latin American music genre that blends reggae, hip-hop, and Caribbean rhythms. Today, it is one of the most popular styles in the world, heard on radio stations, festivals, and charts on both sides of the Atlantic.
History and Origins
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1980s: the roots of the genre go back to Panama, where immigrants from Jamaica began performing reggae in Spanish.
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1990s: in Puerto Rico, the style evolved, incorporating hip-hop and dancehall. The music became more energetic, and the lyrics — more street-oriented.
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Initially, reggaeton was considered underground and was played on cassette tapes and at illegal parties.
Sound Characteristics
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Dem Bow rhythm — the foundation of the genre, named after the track Shabba Ranks – Dem Bow. This is a distinctive drum pattern, recognizable from the first seconds.
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Tempo: around 85–100 BPM, with heavy bass and crisp percussion.
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Vocals: rapping or singing in Spanish, often with street slang and energetic delivery.
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Atmosphere: hot, sensual, danceable, with elements of sexuality and boldness.
Famous Artists
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Daddy Yankee — the «king of reggaeton,» whose hit Gasolina made the genre global.
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Don Omar (Danza Kuduro), Wisin & Yandel, Tego Calderón — pioneers of the style.
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Contemporary artists: J Balvin, Bad Bunny, Ozuna, Karol G, who brought reggaeton to the global charts.
Popularity and Influence
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In the 2000s, reggaeton conquered Latin America and the U.S., becoming part of mainstream culture.
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Today, the genre dominates the Spotify and Billboard charts, with its artists filling stadiums around the world.
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Reggaeton has influenced EDM, pop, and hip-hop, blending with them in crossovers.
Reggaeton — the rhythm of the streets of San Juan and Panama, has become the soundtrack for parties from Miami to Berlin. It proved that Spanish-language music can capture the whole world.
