As Idols Come and Go, the Latinx Underground is Thriving and Sound
I think I speak for many Latinx American listeners when I say that Cuco was one of my favorite artists entering the mainstream of popular dream pop music.
The 22 year old Hawthorne native captured the hearts of many with classics such as “Lo Sueno,” “Amor de Siempre,” and “Lava Lamp.” Though, those hearts were recently shattered when news broke out alleging that Cuco was not only engaging in inappropriate behavior with minors, but has protected and maintained relationships with bandmates that were associating with minors as well.
Although there isn't much evidence to go off for the case, I trust the word of the fans who have stepped forward with their experiences.
Cuco was more than just the next Mac Demarco Mexican knock off, as he represented a majority of Latinx music fans within California. So, when news and accusations came into light, many felt disappointed.
Though some fans chose to ignore the accusations and defend the artist, many others no longer feel comfortable supporting the musician, which beckons the need for more positive Latinx representation in the music industry.
As Cuco’s spotlight continues to dim, other Latinx artists such as Kali Uchis and Omar Apollo grow in mainstream popularity. Despite this, the void remains open for his underground and hybrid sound.
Luckily, some of the most creative and immersive Latinx artists are being fostered in California. Laid back, vibe heavy, and romantic sad traits incorporated, here are a few that you should know about.
Los Retros
Oxnard, California - Stones Throw Records
Mauri Tapia, aka, Los Retros is an Oxnard native who has been cultivating his love for music since his early teens. A master of orchestration, arrangement, and someone who can play a mean set of keys, Tapia has already soundtracked the heartbreak blues with his 2021 single Amtrak off his latest e.p Looking Back. With acknowledgments from Chicano Batman and a signing from Stones Throw Records, Los Retros will supply the late-night car ride tunes for many years to come.
Girl Ultra
Mexico City, Mexico - Finesse Records
Mexico City treasure Mariana de Miguel, better known by her stage name, Girl Ultra, is a 26-year old R & B singer native to Mexico City. Miguel is no stranger to singing with a soulful purpose. With influences such as Destiny's Child and Daniel Caesar, Girl Ultra incorporates heavy swing and unprompted vocal melodies in her performances. Her 2019 sleeper hit Nuevos Aires provided songs to love and cry to, with tracks such as “Discretion & Pena” having such singable choruses yet deeply saddening meanings.
Junior Mesa
Bakersfield, California - Nice Life Recording Company
Bro is from Bakersfield! As one of the newest faces to Nice Life Records, Junior Mesa is a bedroom sad boy turned superstar on the rise! His new e.p Cirque Du Freak provides a funky and psychedelic reintroduction to the Gen-Z star with his love of 70’s music and culture evident all throughout the record. Previous tracks such as “Creep” and “3 Am” provide a retrospective experience meant only for the bedroom all alone with no regard for the future.
Luna Luna
Dallas, Texas Independent
This is the most attractive set of musicians I’ve ever seen. Originating in Dallas, Texas, Luna Luna is the four-person powerhouse consisting of founding member Kevvi, Danny Bonilla, Kaylin Martinez, and vocalist Ryan “Gordo” Gordon. The group has had a hot three album streak with their newest piece Flower Moon showcasing the group’s collective passion for soft harmonic melodies, slow dancing drum patterns, love-filled lyrics, and a deep love for 80’s music. Emerging onto the larger stage of Latin American music culture, the band presents a positively energetic, colorfully flamboyant presence that yearns to be noticed.
Yungatita
Los Angeles. California - Independent
Los Angelino writer, musician, painter, and eyeliner extraordinaire
Yungatita only has one project under her belt, 2020’s Over you e.p, but has already accumulated her own underground fanbase and an arsenal of homies to collaborate with in the realm of music and visuals. Despite being a full-time student, the young artist has paved her own path to success by curating her own backyard show experiences, soundtracked by indie rock bangers such as Sigh Guy and Indie Dream Boy. As she enters a short and blissful rest, Yungatita is sure to create something wonderful and something exponentially herself.