Hispanic Heritage Month 2020: Celebrating Latin Music!
From September 15 to October 15, we honor the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Founded by Congress in 1968, National Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the more than 60 million Americans who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean as they strengthen and enrich our country.
On The Hill
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, RIAA recently asked three Members of Congress about the role of Latin and Spanish language music in their communities. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (Nevada), Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) spoke from the heart about the economic and cultural power of Latin music and its power to connect, uplift, and inspire. Whether helping communities heal in the wake of tragedy or fueling social and cultural unity, Latin music is a dynamic and irreplaceable part of America today.
In Their Own Words
From Gabriela Martinez, General Manager of Warner Music Latina, to RIAA Diamond certified artist J. Balvin to Latin trap pioneer Anuel AA, the vibrant tapestry of Latin music has become a thriving cornerstone of the modern music business – making the American musical melting pot richer and more compelling than ever.
This week we highlight Sony Music Latin.
Hear from Sony Music Latin Region President Afo Verde and Gold & Platinum awarded artists Mau y Ricky, Pedro Capó and Kany García on the important contribution and influence of Latin Music the world over.
“In a country of immigrants, where each one of them has their history, their thoughts, their heart, their romanticism, from their places of origin… That music connects with those roots.”
Afo Verde, Chairman & CEO, Sony Music Latin Iberia
In Case You Missed It
Check out Warner Music Latina’s Hispanic Heritage Month video featuring Justin Quiles and band Piso 21 and Universal Music Latin Entertainment’s video featuring Mariah Angeliq, Cali Y El Dandee and Sebastian Yatra.
Recent Latin Music Milestones
- Through the landmark Gold & Platinum Awards Program, Latin music now accounts for about 15% of all RIAA Gold & Platinum certifications in recent years. (Source: RIAA)
- Latin music has been growing faster than the overall market – rising 28% last year to make up 5% of the industry. (Source: RIAA)
- Hispanics in the U.S. use streaming music services and own smart speakers at higher rates than the total population. (Source: Nielsen)
- A report from Edison Research shows Latino listeners prefer music podcasts over all other categories.
Latin Sounds
Listen to team RIAA’s playlist here.
