Latin Grammy Predictions, From Bad Bunny to Gloria Estefan and Fuerza Regida: Who Could Win?
As the Latin Recording Academy begins its march towards the Latin Grammys on Nov. 13, the questions are building on who will take home the most coveted honors.
With the eligibility period spanning from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, this past year has seen a flood of big name releases — from returning giants like Bad Bunny, who seems to be a shoo-in for an album of the year spotlight with “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” (“I Should Have Taken More Photos”), to legendary voices like Gloria Estefan, whose latest work doubled as a thesis on cross-generational influence.
Last year, “Radio Güira” — the second extended play by Juan Luis Guerra — took home album of the year in a stacked category that equally honored legacy and lasting innovation. Meanwhile, Ela Taubert was crowned best new artist, signaling a fresh wave of emotionally driven talent. Now, with a mix of global icons and emerging trailblazers releasing music that spans urbano, pop, música mexicana, and beyond, this year’s race in the general categories should be just as exhilarating.
Here’s a look at who might shape the conversation at this year’s Latin Grammys.
“Raíces” by Gloria Estefan (Sony Music Latin)
Her first Spanish-language album in 18 years (and the 30th overall), “Raíces” consists of 13 tracks — some written by Gloria, and most written and produced by her husband and creative partner, Emilio Estefan Jr. The collection of salsa and bolero is a heartfelt return to form to the rhythms and cross-generational themes that have made her a Latin music icon (and earned her four Latin Grammys thus far). This collection honors Estefan’s work and echoes the culturally urgent message that music has no borders and is exponentially evolving.
“Debí Tirar Más Fotos” by Bad Bunny (Rimas Entertainment)
Though he may have physically strayed, temporarily leaving his native Puerto Rico to complete the responsibilities of a globe-trotting artist, Bad Bunny is determined now to keep his feet on the island, as exemplified in the effusive “Debí.” This project pulses with commentary on identity, nostalgia, and resistance, all anchored by a rich blend of live instrumentation. From salsa and reggaetón to dembow, plena, and beyond, the album showcases an unmatched versatility. Even without the weight of his global fame, the record’s cultural depth and historical perspective make it an obvious contender for Latin Grammy gold.
“111Xpantia” by Fuerza Regida (Street Mob Records/Sony Music Latin/Rancho Humilde)
The five-member regional Mexican powerhouse from San Bernardino, Calif., hit a creative high with their ninth album — their boldest and most boundary-pushing yet. While the Latin Recording Academy has yet to give them their due, this project feels like their ticket to recognition. It’s a fearless fusion of old and new: traditional corridos woven with unexpected modern twists, from sampling the iconic “Love Theme from The Godfather” to layering in banjo riffs that somehow just work. Lyrically, the group dives deep, exploring everyday themes and personal growth with a rawness that stays with you.
“Nadie Se Va Como Llegó” by Ángela Aguilar (Machin Records)
It might be a stretch to predict a consecutive album of the year nomination for Ángela Aguilar (she was up for the prize last year with “Bolero”), but it wouldn’t come as a surprise. With “Nadie Se Va Como Llegó,” the youngest of the Aguilar dynasty is credited as both a producer and songwriter for the first time. Thematically, the record touches on female empowerment and heartbreak, and is a relatively shorter set at only 12 songs. The instrumentation is lush with mariachi strings and elements of norteño and pop. It also features Marc Anthony as the only collaboration.
Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso (5020 Records)
This Argentine experimental trap and hip-hop duo is inarguably one of the biggest success stories to come out of Latin music this year. They first made big waves with a wildly popular NPR Tiny Desk Concert that was impossible to ignore. In addition, they have already played for Glastonbury, Coachella and Lollapalooza, and went viral during international showings in Japan. Though they’ve already been widely recognized internationally, recently securing a major opening slot for Kendrick Lamar’s “Grand National” tour, they certainly deserve the same treatment at the 2025 Latin Grammys.
Kevin Kaarl (Independent)
This Mexican folk singer and composer has become a quiet force, capturing millions of listeners across borders through his deeply emotive songwriting. As an independent artist, he’s found success both in Mexico and the U.S., carving out a space that’s uniquely his. His biggest strength lies in his ability to weave together seemingly disparate influences, from Norteño and classical to rock. It’s a sound that feels both intimate and expansive, making him a strong choice for best new artist.
Judeline (Interscope)
Following the success of 2024’s “Bodhiria,” and her quiet journey as a singer-songwriter, Judeline seems like an easy choice for voters of this category. Her sprawling, semi-conceptual debut was widely praised for its cohesive assortment of flamenco, electro-pop and R&B.
Annasofia (Universal Music Latino)
Both a musician and producer, Annasofia’s musical talent spans piano, drums, guitar and percussion. A graduate of the Art House Academy (which also spawned previous best new artist winners Joaquina and Ela Taubert) under the mentorship of Julio Reyes Copello, the 24 year-old is best known for her unique combination of Latin pop and hip-hop, rock and more.
With the eligibility period spanning from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, this past year has seen a flood of big name releases — from returning giants like Bad Bunny, who seems to be a shoo-in for an album of the year spotlight with “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” (“I Should Have Taken More Photos”), to legendary voices like Gloria Estefan, whose latest work doubled as a thesis on cross-generational influence.
Last year, “Radio Güira” — the second extended play by Juan Luis Guerra — took home album of the year in a stacked category that equally honored legacy and lasting innovation. Meanwhile, Ela Taubert was crowned best new artist, signaling a fresh wave of emotionally driven talent. Now, with a mix of global icons and emerging trailblazers releasing music that spans urbano, pop, música mexicana, and beyond, this year’s race in the general categories should be just as exhilarating.
Here’s a look at who might shape the conversation at this year’s Latin Grammys.
“Raíces” by Gloria Estefan (Sony Music Latin)
Her first Spanish-language album in 18 years (and the 30th overall), “Raíces” consists of 13 tracks — some written by Gloria, and most written and produced by her husband and creative partner, Emilio Estefan Jr. The collection of salsa and bolero is a heartfelt return to form to the rhythms and cross-generational themes that have made her a Latin music icon (and earned her four Latin Grammys thus far). This collection honors Estefan’s work and echoes the culturally urgent message that music has no borders and is exponentially evolving.
“Debí Tirar Más Fotos” by Bad Bunny (Rimas Entertainment)
Though he may have physically strayed, temporarily leaving his native Puerto Rico to complete the responsibilities of a globe-trotting artist, Bad Bunny is determined now to keep his feet on the island, as exemplified in the effusive “Debí.” This project pulses with commentary on identity, nostalgia, and resistance, all anchored by a rich blend of live instrumentation. From salsa and reggaetón to dembow, plena, and beyond, the album showcases an unmatched versatility. Even without the weight of his global fame, the record’s cultural depth and historical perspective make it an obvious contender for Latin Grammy gold.
“111Xpantia” by Fuerza Regida (Street Mob Records/Sony Music Latin/Rancho Humilde)
The five-member regional Mexican powerhouse from San Bernardino, Calif., hit a creative high with their ninth album — their boldest and most boundary-pushing yet. While the Latin Recording Academy has yet to give them their due, this project feels like their ticket to recognition. It’s a fearless fusion of old and new: traditional corridos woven with unexpected modern twists, from sampling the iconic “Love Theme from The Godfather” to layering in banjo riffs that somehow just work. Lyrically, the group dives deep, exploring everyday themes and personal growth with a rawness that stays with you.
“Nadie Se Va Como Llegó” by Ángela Aguilar (Machin Records)
It might be a stretch to predict a consecutive album of the year nomination for Ángela Aguilar (she was up for the prize last year with “Bolero”), but it wouldn’t come as a surprise. With “Nadie Se Va Como Llegó,” the youngest of the Aguilar dynasty is credited as both a producer and songwriter for the first time. Thematically, the record touches on female empowerment and heartbreak, and is a relatively shorter set at only 12 songs. The instrumentation is lush with mariachi strings and elements of norteño and pop. It also features Marc Anthony as the only collaboration.
Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso (5020 Records)
This Argentine experimental trap and hip-hop duo is inarguably one of the biggest success stories to come out of Latin music this year. They first made big waves with a wildly popular NPR Tiny Desk Concert that was impossible to ignore. In addition, they have already played for Glastonbury, Coachella and Lollapalooza, and went viral during international showings in Japan. Though they’ve already been widely recognized internationally, recently securing a major opening slot for Kendrick Lamar’s “Grand National” tour, they certainly deserve the same treatment at the 2025 Latin Grammys.
Kevin Kaarl (Independent)
This Mexican folk singer and composer has become a quiet force, capturing millions of listeners across borders through his deeply emotive songwriting. As an independent artist, he’s found success both in Mexico and the U.S., carving out a space that’s uniquely his. His biggest strength lies in his ability to weave together seemingly disparate influences, from Norteño and classical to rock. It’s a sound that feels both intimate and expansive, making him a strong choice for best new artist.
Judeline (Interscope)
Following the success of 2024’s “Bodhiria,” and her quiet journey as a singer-songwriter, Judeline seems like an easy choice for voters of this category. Her sprawling, semi-conceptual debut was widely praised for its cohesive assortment of flamenco, electro-pop and R&B.
Annasofia (Universal Music Latino)
Both a musician and producer, Annasofia’s musical talent spans piano, drums, guitar and percussion. A graduate of the Art House Academy (which also spawned previous best new artist winners Joaquina and Ela Taubert) under the mentorship of Julio Reyes Copello, the 24 year-old is best known for her unique combination of Latin pop and hip-hop, rock and more.