Predictions for the 2024 Latin Grammy Album of the Year Nominees

The industry buzzes with anticipation as the Latin Grammy nominations approach. The shift from single-driven markets to cohesive LPs marks a new era for Latin music. Here are the top contenders for the coveted Album of the Year.

The 2024 Latin Grammy Awards are on the horizon, and the industry is abuzz with speculation about who will be nominated for Album of the Year. This category has traditionally prioritized artistic boldness and craftsmanship over sheer popularity, often rewarding artists pushing their genres’ boundaries. With the announcement of the ten nominees scheduled for September 17, here are five albums likely to be cut.

The New Wave: Young Miko and the Rise of Inclusivity

Young Miko, a standout in the reggaeton world, defies the genre’s traditional machismo with her unique identity. Blonde, petite, and openly gay, she brings a fresh perspective to the music scene with her album “att.” Released under The Wave Music Group, “att.” combines party anthems with sharp, eloquent lyrics that assert her place in the industry. Her collaboration with reggaeton veterans Jowell & Randy adds an old-school touch to her innovative sound.

Young Miko’s success is a significant step forward in a genre where representation has been limited. Her fearless approach to music and ability to blend different elements make her a strong contender for Album of the Year. The Latin Grammy Awards have a history of recognizing artists who bring something new, and Young Miko’s “att.” is a perfect example of this trend.

Celebrating Diversity: Fonseca’s Tropicalia

Colombian singer-songwriter Fonseca’s album “Tropicalia” is a labor of love that elevates tropical music with a rich, diverse palette. Released by Sony Latin, “Tropicalia” showcases Fonseca’s ability to blend various musical styles while staying true to his roots. The album collaborates with renowned artists like Juan Luis Guerra, Gilberto Santa Rosa, and Chucho Valdés, each bringing unique flavor.

Fonseca’s exploration of different genres, from vallenato-infused pop to Cuban bolero and jazz-tinged salsa, demonstrates his versatility as an artist. His ability to create music that resonates on the dance floor while evoking deep emotional responses makes “Tropicalia” a strong candidate for Album of the Year. The Latin Grammy Awards have always celebrated musical innovation, and Fonseca’s work perfectly embodies this spirit.

Kany García’s Evolution: From Singer-Songwriter to Genre-Blender

Kany García’s self-titled album “García” marks a significant evolution in her career. Known for her eloquent lyrics and melodic sensibilities, García expands her musical horizons in this album, incorporating elements of Mexican music through collaborations with Eden Muñoz, Christian Nodal, and Carín León. Released by 5020 Records, “García” showcases her artist growth and willingness to explore new sounds.

Having been nominated twice in this category, García’s latest work stands out for its storytelling and emotional depth. The autobiographical opening track, “García,” is a masterclass in narrative songwriting, while her foray into Mexican music adds a fresh dimension to her sound. The Latin Grammy Awards often recognize artists who push the boundaries of their genres, and Kany García’s “García” is a testament to her artistic evolution.

Peso Pluma’s Genre-Bending Journey: Éxodo

Peso Pluma continues his streak of success with “Éxodo,” his second album to break into the top five of the Billboard 200. Unlike his previous work, “Génesis,” which won the Grammy for Best Regional Mexican Music Album, “Éxodo” is a double album that showcases two distinct sides of Peso’s musical persona. The first side features Mexican music collaborations with artists like Junior H, Tito Double P, and Luis R Conríquez. In contrast, the second side delves into urban and pop music with bilingual collaborations with Quavo and Rich the Kid.

Released by Double P Records, “Éxodo” exemplifies the growing trend of genre-blending in Latin music. Peso Pluma’s ability to navigate different musical landscapes with ease and success makes this album a strong contender for Album of the Year. The Latin Grammy Awards have always valued innovation, and “Éxodo” represents a bold step forward in the fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds.

Shakira’s Triumphant Return: Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran

At 47, Shakira made a robust comeback with her album “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran,” a post-breakup anthem following her public split from Gerard Piqué. Released by Sony Latin, the album is a testament to Shakira’s resilience and artistic prowess. The lead single, “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53”, became an instant hit, earning the Latin Grammy for Song of the Year in 2023.

“Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” blends social media-savvy lyrics and deep emotional content. Tracks like “Puntería” with Cardi B showcase Shakira’s playful side, while songs like “Acróstico” and “Última” reveal her vulnerability. Collaborations with artists such as Karol G, Rauw Alejandro, Grupo Frontera, and Fuerza Regida highlight Shakira’s ability to remain relevant and innovate within the industry. If she wins, it would be her second Album of the Year award, following her 2006 triumph with “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.”

Anticipating the Latin Grammy Nominations

As the Latin Grammy nominations draw near, the anticipation continues to build. The shift towards cohesive albums in the Latin music industry has allowed artists to showcase their versatility and innovation. From Young Miko’s groundbreaking representation in reggaeton to Fonseca’s diverse musical exploration, Kany García’s genre-blending evolution, Peso Pluma’s ambitious double album, and Shakira’s triumphant return, the competition for Album of the Year promises to be fierce.

Also read: Most Powerful Latin/Hispanic Entertainers in Film, TV, and Music

The Latin Grammy Awards have always celebrated artistic boldness and craftsmanship; this year’s nominees are expected to reflect these values. As we await the official announcement, it’s clear that the 2024 Latin Grammy Awards will be a testament to Latin music’s vibrant and evolving landscape.