Latino musicians were proposed for the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. “Latinos are nearly 20% of the US and widely bilingual —, but of the 600 titles in the Recording Registry, less than 4% are from Latino artists,” said Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, in a tweet.
33 songs in English and Spanish from various genres were nominated, according to NBC News, giving priority to performers who are not listed on the registry.
Juan Gabriel’s “Amor Eterno,” Elvis Crespo’s “Suavemente,” José Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad,” Jennifer Lopez’s album “J. Lo,” Los Tigres Del Norte’s album “Corridos,” and more performers and songs are included on the list.
“I want for the contributions of our musicians to be recognized and celebrated in the way that they deserve because they have made a mark in America,” Castro spoke to Axios. The lawmaker also requested input from his supporters on more songs to add to the playlist.
The National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress selects 25 tracks each year to diversify American recorded sound and save Latino rhythms for future generations.
Public nominations for the 2023 registration are no longer being accepted, although suggestions are still being accepted for the 2024 registry. According to the Library of Congress, as quoted by NBC, recordings must be at least 10 years old and “culturally, historically, or aesthetically important, and/or inform or reflect life in the United States” to qualify.
