5 Latino Artists Breaking New Ground in the Entertainment Industry | Storytellers

The music industry is constantly evolving, with new voices emerging and leaving their mark. Today, we’re highlighting five artists who are breaking barriers and shaping the future of the industry. From regional Mexican music to TikTok sensations, these artists are paving their own paths to success.

1. Dannylux (DannyLux)

Dannylux is bringing a fresh, youthful energy to regional Mexican music. Hailing from Palm Springs, California, his musical journey began when his father brought home a discarded guitar. From that moment, Dannylux’s passion for music ignited, leading him to perform in various musical groups—from norteño to jazz. His big break came on TikTok when a regional Mexican song cover he posted went viral. Now signed with Warner Music, Dannylux is proud to represent his roots and bring his genre to the mainstream. His soulful, melancholic songs have captivated audiences, making him a rising star with a bright future.

2. Xavi (Joshua Xavier Gutierrez Alonso)

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Xavi is an American singer-songwriter who made waves in 2023 with his viral hits “La Víctima” and “La Diabla.” Known for his regional Mexican music with a modern twist, Xavi’s rise to fame was meteoric, thanks to TikTok and his ability to connect deeply with fans through personal lyrics. After surviving a car accident that nearly ended his career, Xavi’s determination only grew stronger. In 2024, he announced his first tour, “Poco a Poco,” which promises to cement his status as one of the hottest new acts in the genre. His blend of corridos tumbados and romantic themes have made him a staple in the Latin music scene.

3. Lorén Aldarondo Torres (Chuwi)

Lorén Aldarondo Torres is the lead vocalist of Chuwi, a Puerto Rican band that blends Latin jazz, indie rock, urbano, and tropical fusion. Born in Isabela and raised in Mayagüez, Lorén’s music is deeply influenced by the socio-political and cultural challenges that Puerto Rico has faced, including mass gentrification, economic disparity, and environmental destruction. As a chemistry graduate turned restaurant server, her everyday experiences fuel the emotion behind her lyrics. Chuwi’s music, while not overtly activist, resonates with listeners due to its raw, authentic portrayal of life on the island. Their single “Tierra” speaks to the anxieties of Puerto Ricans grappling with the effects of Act 60, a law that has driven up housing prices and displaced locals. With Lorén’s soulful voice leading the way, Chuwi has quickly gained recognition as a voice of the new generation, channeling the struggles and dreams of the Puerto Rican people through powerful, emotive performances.

4. Raffa Virago

Actress and winner of the Imagen Award for Best Young Actor for her role in Dying in Plain Sight, Raffa Virago is a rising talent known for her passion and commitment to complex roles. She grew up in a household of strong Brazilian women, which deeply shaped her identity and drive. In a recent interview with LatiNation, she reflected on how her upbringing influenced her work:

“I grew up with an all-women household, and they’re all Brazilian women, so you can imagine how chaotic that is. But that’s what shaped me to be who I am today.”

Her role in Dying in Plain Sight holds personal significance, as she tackled the portrayal of a character struggling with an eating disorder, an issue she believes needs more visibility. Virago has used her platform to foster conversations on the impact of body image and mental health, making her not just an actress but a voice for change.

5. Julian Works: 

Julian Works is an American actor, born on May 20th, 1991. He is best known for playing Mateo Chavez in the hit TV series 9-1-1: Lone Star and for his role in the 2023 film The Long Game. Julian has showcased his remarkable range by portraying diverse characters, from the troubled Marvin Chavez in 9-1-1 to the dedicated firefighter Mateo Chavez in 9-1-1: Lone Star. His portrayal of Joe Treviño in The Long Game is another significant milestone in his career, a film set in the 1950s that tells the story of Mexican American youth challenging societal norms by entering the elite, predominantly white world of golf. Julian’s ability to morph between characters has earned him accolades, including an Imagen Award for Best Supporting Actor in The Long Game, further establishing him as one of the industry’s most versatile talents.