Shakira, Juan Gabriel, Jennifer Lopez & More Latinos Are Nominated for the National Recording Registry

Shakira, Juan Gabriel, Jennifer Lopez & More Latinos Are Nominated for the National Recording Registry belatina latine

On November 29, Axios Latino reported that the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) submitted a compilation of 33 songs and albums to be considered for next year’s Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry. Why? Believe it or not, there are only an estimated 24 Latino titles to date – and it’s been around since 2002. Shocking, I know.

“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,” U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), who’s also a member of the CHC, said. He’s dedicated years to get this representation balanced – and it looks like he’s getting closer to achieving it.

Though there’s no confirmation of what will be considered, here’s what we know.

Who gets to choose media for the National Recording Registry?

It’s up to the Library of Congress, and the National Recording Preservation Board. They choose 25 titles that are 10-years-old, and that are “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” according to the aforementioned source.

Part of the reason that Latinos are significantly lacking representation in the National Recording Registry is said to be because “Latinos were not given commercial opportunities,” and were a “smaller share of the population,” according to the National Recording Preservation Board program director, Steve Leggett. Well, things have changed and they need to catch up.

He said: “To fill this gap, we do make special efforts to uncover recordings by Hispanic artists and other diverse artists of color.” Could this special effort be putting pressure on the Library of Congress’ selections for next year? 

What media is up for discussion?

Though it’s pointed out that next year’s deadline for public nominations already passed, here are Latino works in question: Juan Gabriel’s “Amor Eterno,” Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie,” and Rage Against the Machine’s self-titled album.” It also includes Vicente Fernández’s “El Rey,” and José Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad,” according to Axios Latino.

Other titles reported: Elvis Crespo’s “Suavemente,” Jennifer Lopez’s album J.LO, and Los Tigres Del Norte’s album Corridos, according to NBC News.

Will they actually make efforts to catch up?

It all depends on the National Recording Preservation Board. They are set to meet next week to revise submissions. The 2023 registry will then be announced in the spring. 

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