Latin Pop

Latin Pop -- pop music sung in Spanish by artists from Central and Latin American countries -- is usually marked by polished production while incorporating unobtrusive Latin rhythms and instrumentation into its mix. Latin Pop first reached a global audience through the work of bandleader Sergio Mendes in the mid-1960s; in later decades, crooner Julio Iglesias, the versatile Gloria Estefan, and the revolving-door teen idol group Menudo carried the style forward. This genre includes Tejano -- an urbanized form of the accordion-driven, Polka-inspired style known as north Mexican Conjunto that's plugged itself in, bought a few synthesizers and electric guitars, and moved its bouncy feel into the present day. Tejano crossover musicians include the popular L.A. outfit Los Lobos, who retain the genre's basics while adorning them mightily with pop/rock stylings, and the late diva Selena, a Spanish-singing Texan who achieved pop stardom while remaining true to her Tejano roots.