Heri Iznaga, Cain Culto & More Emerging Latin Artists on Our Radar
Categoria: Musica
The rising stars we've discovered in June, and who should be on your radar.
Por Billboard | 29/06/2026
Every month, Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors spotlight a group of rising artists whose music we love. Think “diamantes en bruto,” or “diamonds in the rough.” These are newcomers who have yet to impact the mainstream — but whose music excites us, and who we believe our readers should make a point to discover. Our latest edition of On the Radar Latin includes a wave of emerging artists, who we discovered by scrolling on social media, networking, or coming across their music at a showcase, for example. See our June 2026 recommendations—in celebration of Pride Month—below. Name: Cain Culto Country: Colombia, Nicaragua Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Cain Culto is building a world all his own. The Kentucky Latin art-pop artist — born to Colombian and Nicaraguan immigrant parents and shaped by religious fundamentalism, bluegrass fiddle and salsa alike — has become one of the most fascinating new queer voices on the fringes of Latin music. His work folds protest, camp, satire and spirituality into a sound that feels unruly yet intentional, whether he’s channeling political urgency on “¡BASTA YA!” with Xiuhtezcatl or pure pop delirium on “BIMBAMBAU,” his May release inspired by Gloria Estefan and Celia Cruz. More recent drops like “Tantra” and “cucuru” continue to expand his shape-shifting aesthetic ahead of what looks to be a breakout new chapter. — ISABELA RAYGOZA Song For Your Playlist: “Bimbambau” Name: Carlo Lafontine Country: Mexico Why They Should Be on Your Radar: In a genre like Regional Mexican music, representing a diverse community is an act of courage. Lafontine exemplifies perseverance and hard work—qualities that have helped him forge his own path and garner support from fans of norteño and banda music who stand against discrimination based on personal preferences. He’s opened for major stars like Yuridia and recently participated in Mexico’s LGBT+ Pride parade. Hailing from the north, it was doubly challenging for him to be his authentic self; yet, despite the obstacles, he has advanced his career with an impeccable image, his cowboy hat worn with pride, and a steadfast commitment to doing what he loves. His 2025 song “Arcoiris”—which reflects on his life and the struggles he faced in becoming a Mexican music artist—is his most defining work today. — TERE AGUILERA Song For Your Playlist: “Arcoiris” Name: Heri Iznaga Country: Cuba Why They Should Be on Your Radar: As a guest judge on “La Voz Guacalito”—a local singing competition in Miami,—I discovered Heri Iznaga’s undeniable talent at first hand. During the three-month-long contest, the Cuban singer-songwriter not only captivated the audience with his soothing, sugary vocals, but also his stellar showmanship and demanding stage presence. Poised to become a future breakout Latin artist, Heri, who’s been releasing music since 2020, can navigate from emotive, bi