Latino Culture

For centuries, Latino culture has influenced all areas of American life, including food, sports, business, politics, science, education, and the arts. Music and dance styles such as Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Tango, Cuban Rumba, Samba, Flamenco, Cumbias, and reggaeton have become popular nationwide thanks to artists like Celia Cruz, Mario Santos, Buena Vista Social Club, Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, Tito Puente and of course Thalia and Selina  Quintanilla. In this section we will highlight major Latin artist, Latin culture and news here in America and across the planet.

Juan Villareal

Join us as comedian JUAN VILLAREAL explore the challenges and triumphs of being accepted in the diverse world of comedy. From legendary open mics to navigating cultural spaces, we share insights on embracing identity and humor in a vibrant community.

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Top 10 most powerful and fastest rising Latinos in Politics an the Industry currently.

It’s been a defining year for the Latino community as it showcased an unprecedented rise in cultural influence and economic prowess. As the Latino population continues to grow, so does its impact on American society. Particularly in business and the arts. Since 1929 with the song Guantanamera originally sung by Joseíto Fernández and later covered by the late great Celia Cruz Spanish music has been a staple in the hearts of many Americans of all cultures and backgrounds. Perhaps even before. From the Spanish rock group Mana’s first hit single “Rayando el Sol” in 1990 to 2002 with Tego Calderon’s now legendary reggaeton magnum opus El Abayarde, the Latin music scene has made an impressive non stop run for the hearts of many with no signs of slowing down whatsoever. In 2023, we witnessed an explosion of Latino representation in mainstream media, with more filmmakers, actors, and musicians using their platforms to share authentic stories that reflect the diverse experiences within the community. This increased visibility not only fosters a broader cultural appreciation but also promotes a paradigm shift in how Latino narratives are perceived in society.

On the business front, the entrepreneurial spirit of the Latino community has been a driving force in revitalizing local economies and contributing to national GDP growth. With a record number of Latino-owned startups emerging, 2023 marked a pivotal moment where these businesses began to capture greater market share and influence. This year, major corporations recognized the importance of engaging with Latino consumers, leading to collaborations and initiatives aimed at supporting Latino entrepreneurs. Such efforts underscore the recognition of the community as a significant economic engine, capable of shaping market trends and driving innovation.

Moreover, the intersection of culture and commerce has paved the way for unique collaborations that celebrate Latino heritage. From fashion brands embracing Latino aesthetics to culinary experiences reshaping the dining landscape, the community’s impact is seen across various industries. In 2023, the fusion of traditional practices with modern business strategies has not only enhanced cultural discourse but also created a platform for Latino voices to thrive. As we move forward, it is clear that the Latino community is not just a demographic to be acknowledged; it is a vibrant and essential part of the cultural and economic fabric of society. Here we have comprised a list of 10 of the current most powerful heavy hitters in the game.

Pittbull

Armando Christian Pérez (born January 15, 1981), AKA Pitbull (also known as Mr. 305 and Mr. Worldwide), is an American rapper, singer and actor. He began his career in the early 2000s as a rapper/ reggaeton artist. Mr. Perez takes his name after a particular breed of dog and according to him in the Biography “Pitbull: Mr. Worldwide,”  there’s a reason for that. “(Pitbulls) bite to lock,” the book quotes him as saying. “The dog is too stupid to lose. And they’re outlawed in Dade County (Florida). They’re basically everything that I am. It’s been a constant fight.”In a candid interview with CNN, Pitbull shared his admiration for the tenacity of his breed, highlighting the indomitable spirit that sets him apart. “I like the hunt; I like when people say you can’t, you won’t, you never will,” he remarked, emphasizing how the naysayers fuel his passion and drive. This determination has been instrumental in his career, propelling him from local fame to international superstardom.

The release of his hit single “I Know You Want Me” marked a significant turning point for the artist, transforming him from Mr. 305—an homage to his Miami roots—into the globally recognized Mr. Worldwide. This evolution signifies more than just a catchy moniker; it represents Pitbull’s relentless ambition to expand his reach and infl

uence across the globe. “If you don’t know where you’re from, you don’t know where you’re going,” he explained, reflecting on the importance of his origins.

Pitbull takes immense pride in his identity, stating, “I love it. I wear it on my chest.” His connection to Miami is not just a facet of his persona; it’s a badge of honor that he carries with him in all his endeavors. As he continues to break barriers and explore new territories, he playfully mused about needing a new title, jokingly suggesting something like “Mr. Another Planet.” This lightheartedness encapsulates his approach to life and career—a blend of fierce ambition and a genuine love for his roots.

Salma Valgarma Hayek Pinault

Salma began her career in Mexico, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent in starring roles in various telenovelas. Her first was “Teresa” from 1989 – 1991. was an early success in television and laid the groundwork for her rise in the entertainment industry, which was further solidified by her performance in the romantic drama “Midaq Alley” in 1995. These pivotal roles not only showcased her versatility as an actress but also endeared her to a wide audience, establishing her as a prominent figure in Mexican cinema.

As her popularity surged, she set her sights on Hollywood, where she made a striking entrance with notable appearances in several blockbuster films. Her role in “Desperado” (1995) marked her transition to the international stage, where she shared screen space with iconic stars and showcased her charisma to Hollywood audiences. Who could forget her memorable performance in “From Dusk till Dawn” (1996), a now cult classic as the sultry succubus Santanico Pandemonium that further solidified her status as a leading actress. In the late ’90s, she continued to captivate viewers with her roles in “Wild Wild West” (1999) and “Dogma” (1999), both of which demonstrated her ability to navigate various genres. Through her impressive body of work, she not only broke barriers for Latina actresses in Hollywood but also left an indelible mark on the film industry that continues to inspire aspiring actors today.

Salma has become an advocate over the years and has charitable work which includes increasing awareness on violence against women and discrimination against immigrants.[On July 19, 2005, Hayek testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary supporting reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act In February 2006, she donated $25,000 to a Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, shelter for battered women and another $50,000 to Monterrey based anti-domestic violence groups.

On February 14, 2007, She married Billionaire Kering CEO François-Henri Pinault. She gave birth to their daughter 2 yrs prior.  

The Hollywood Reporter ranked Hayek 4th in their Latino Power 50, of a list of the most powerful Latin members of Hollywood. In 2008, she was awarded the Women in Film Lucy Award, in recognition of her creative works that have enhanced the perception of women through the medium of television, and Entertainment Weekly ranked her 17th in their list of the 25 Smartest People in TV.

Cesar Conde

Chairman, NBCUniversal News Group

Conde has led the transformation of NBCUniversal’s news businesses since taking charge in 2020, leaning into streaming through NBC News Now and programming Peacock with original news and opinion content, as well as simulcasts of CNBC and MSNBC’s morning shows. He also has made diversity a priority through initiatives to make the news division more representative of America.

Carmen Cuba Carla Hool

Casting directors hold a pivotal role in the film and television industry, acting as the gatekeepers who can propel unknown talent into the limelight and forever alter the fabric of Hollywood. Their discerning eyes have the ability to not just spot potential but to reshape narratives, driving the representation of diverse voices and experiences to the forefront of mainstream media. Among these influential figures is Hool, who has established herself as a premier talent scout for Latin actors, lending her expertise to celebrated projects such as “Coco,” “Flamin’ Hot,” “Narcos.”” “Man on Fire”, “Despicable Me 2″, ” Apocalypto” and “Sin Nombre” to name a few.

Hool is another casting powerhouse who has made significant strides in an industry historically resistant to women in the industry. With a knack for unearthing talent, she has dramatically changed the trajectory of promising actors, exemplified by her work with the “Stranger Things” ensemble, for which she won her second Emmy. Her upcoming projects, including “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” and “Crying in H Mart,” highlight her ongoing influence in selecting impactful talent and shaping narratives that speak to a broader audience. For Cuba hool, power in this ecosystem translates to the ability to connect directly with influential figures without needing to justify her vision or aesthetic. Her relationships and reputation allow her to advocate for a more diverse representation in storytelling.

The industry’s landscape has evolved significantly for Latino talent, marking a shift towards authenticity and respect in representation. According to Hool, there has been a noticeable change in the approach producers take regarding Latin stories and characters. Rather than relying solely on stereotypes or outdated perceptions, there’s a willingness to consult with experts on the nuances of Latin culture. This newfound openness reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity, where casting directors like Hool can educate producers about the rich tapestry of the Latino community rather than having to fight for recognition or validation repeatedly. This evolution in the industry’s mindset is a testament to the growing importance of diverse narratives and the vital role casting directors play in bringing those stories to life.

Daddy Yankee

Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez – His 2004 masterpiece, Barrio Fino, made him the first reggaetón act to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart, and became the top-selling Latin album of the decade, paving the way for artists like Don Omar and Wisin y Yandel to swim in the mainstream. Barrio Fino’s lead single, “Gasolina,” is the first reggaetón song inducted into the National Recording Registry. Now retired from music, he is an executive producer on Neon, a new Netflix comedy series about three friends moving to Miami to pursue their reggaetón dreams.

Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio aka Bad Bunny

Known as the King of Latin Trap music is the first non English speaking artist to become spotify’s most streamed artist of the year. His 2016 song “Diles” lead to a recording contract with Hear this Music. He has had billboard hits such as “La Cancion”, ” Ojitos Lindos”, “Pero Negro”, ” Yonaguni” and ” Si Estuviesemos juntos”. He not only has a movie career but seems to be an accomplished actor and athlete.

A self-professed lifelong fan of professional wrestling, Bad Bunny began making appearances in the American promotion WWE in 2021. During WWE’s annual Royal Rumble event held on January 31, 2021, Bad Bunny performed his song “Booker T” live, which also had an appearance by the former wrestler of the same name. When he’s not performing music he currently appears on WWE’s weekly television show, Monday Night Raw.

 Luis Muñoz Marín

Marin was a politician who was called the “Father of Modern Puerto Rico.” He was the first democratically elected Governor of Puerto Rico when Congress granted the territory the right to elect its own governor, and was reelected in 1952, 1956 and 1960. He fought to rapidly expand economic growth in Puerto Rico, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1963 for his work.

Carlos Trujillo’s

is an American lobbyist and government affairs professional who previously served as United States Ambassador to the Organization of American States. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served four terms in the Florida House of Representatives from 2010 until his appointment as ambassador.

Alex Rodriguez –

Investments A-Rod Corp. Founder and CEO

After his brilliant career with the Yankees in the MLB, Alex Rodriguez continued to hit home runs in business with his investment firm A-Rod Corp. And the son of Dominican immigrants has been able to hit hard. In real estate, his firm has acquired assets for more than US$1 billion and has developed more than 45 million square meters in various residential, industrial, tourism and commercial projects. In addition, with A-Rod Corp Ventures and VCP, Rodriguez maintains a constant presence in venture capital investment and advice to entrepreneurs. The athlete-investor’s footprint expands to Mexico with his Energy Fitness chain of gyms.

Francisco Sanchez

Law Firm Holland & Knight Co-Chair. International Trade Practice

Francisco Sánchez’s legal career has taken him from the halls of the White House to the boards of some of the world’s largest companies. He currently leads Tampa-based Holland & Knight’s international trade practice. Sanchez, who previously founded CNS Global Advisors, has spent decades advising clients and various US administrations on how to grow businesses. The executive was Barack Obama’s undersecretary of International Trade and under Bill Clinton was a senior official at the Department of Transportation. He is a firm believer in the free exchange of goods and services, especially with the idea of expanding his clients’ businesses in the US to the world.