
As the United States celebrates its independence on July 4th, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the experience of immigrants who have come before us. And what better way to do so than through music?
For years, Latin American music has served as a vehicle for the stories and struggles of immigrant communities across the world. With over 50 million foreign-born residents calling the US home, it’s no surprise that artists like Los Tigres del Norte, Ricardo Arjona, Celia Cruz & more have been sharing their own tales of displacement, longing, and resilience.
Our list of “The Immigrant Experience in Music: 25 Heartfelt Songs to Reflect on This Fourth of July” is a curated selection of some of the most powerful and poignant tracks that capture the immigrant experience. Los Tigres del Norte’s “De Paisano a Paisano”, released in 2000, tells the chilling story of rejection and scorn faced by contemporary immigrants.
Ricardo Arjona’s “Mojado” is an ode to everyday undocumented workers who have risked it all for a chance at a better life. “Frijolero” by Molotov takes a cheeky and sardonic tone, but still speaks truthfully about the harsh realities faced by those seeking asylum.
We’ve also included tracks that yearn for a lost homeland, like Celia Cruz’s “Por Si Acaso No Regreso”.
What does this playlist look like?
Source: www.billboard.com