We don't often get to discuss the ways that Latin American music made its way west across the Pacific Ocean. But this week we have two incredible projects that celebrate that journey. First, a Japanese band that fuses traditional minyo folk sounds with cumbia and other Latin rhythms. Then, a project that unearths a forgotten history of the 19th century Mexican cowboys who went to Hawaii to help manage livestock.
Plus, a tribute to Afro-Colombian folk legend Totó La Momposina, who passed away this month at 85; an underrated Puerto Rican reggaetonero shines again; and, of course, Ana continues her Brazilian obsession with new tracks from up-and-comer Bebé.
Artists and albums featured in this episode:
- Bebé - Dissolução
- Minya Crusaders - From Japan With Love
- Álvaro Díaz - OMAKASE
- Los Cenzontles - Adios Ke Aloha: Waves of the Same Sea
- Orestes Gomez - No me fui porque quise
- Totó La Momposina - Various
This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music.
Copyright 2026 NPR
