Peru has a rich and diverse musical heritage, shaped by centuries of cultural blending and artistic expression. From the haunting melodies of the Andean highlands to the rhythmic beats of Afro-Peruvian music, Peruvian singers have played a crucial role in preserving and popularizing the country’s unique sounds.
These artists have not only captivated audiences within Peru but have also made a significant impact on the global music scene, showcasing the vibrant and varied traditions of their homeland.
In this article, we explore the careers and contributions of some of the most famous Peruvian singers, whose voices continue to echo the cultural richness of Peru around the world.
19 Incredibly Famous Peruvian Singers That You Need to Hear
Contents
- 1 19 Incredibly Famous Peruvian Singers That You Need to Hear
- 2 #1 Yma Sumac
- 3 #2 Susana Baca
- 4 #3 Eva Ayllón
- 5 #4 Chabuca Granda
- 6 #5 Pedro Suárez-Vértiz
- 7 #6 Gian Marco
- 8 #7 Tania Libertad
- 9 #8 Lucha Reyes
- 10 #9 Lucía de la Cruz
- 11 #10 Jean Paul Strauss
- 12 #11 William Luna
- 13 #12 Fabiola de la Cuba
- 14 #13 Dina Páucar
- 15 #14 Leslie Shaw
- 16 #15 Marisol
- 17 #16 Anna Carina
- 18 #17 Wendy Sulca
- 19 #18 Tony Succar
- 20 #19 Daniela Darcourt
- 21 Frequently Asked Questions
These singers represent a wide range of genres, from traditional Peruvian folk and Afro-Peruvian music to pop, rock, and salsa, showcasing the diversity and richness of Peru’s musical heritage.
Here’s a list of 19 famous Peruvian singers who have made significant contributions to music across various genres:
#1 Yma Sumac
Yma Sumac, born in 1922 as Zoila Augusta Emperatriz Chávarri del Castillo, was a Peruvian soprano known for her extraordinary vocal range, which spanned over four octaves. Sumac became internationally famous in the 1950s for her unique ability to blend traditional Peruvian music with classical and exotica styles, earning her the title of “The Peruvian Songbird.” Her debut album, Voice of the Xtabay (1950), was a commercial success and showcased her incredible vocal prowess and exotic sound.
Sumac’s music captivated audiences worldwide, and she became one of the most famous South American performers of her time. Her theatrical performances, often accompanied by elaborate costumes and stage sets, added to her mystique and appeal. Despite controversies surrounding her true origins and vocal abilities, Yma Sumac remains an iconic figure in the history of music, celebrated for her unparalleled voice and her contributions to world music.
#2 Susana Baca
Susana Baca, born in 1944, is a Peruvian singer, songwriter, and ethnomusicologist who has played a crucial role in reviving and promoting Afro-Peruvian music. Baca’s career began in the 1970s, but she gained international recognition in the 1990s with the release of her album Susana Baca (1997) under David Byrne’s Luaka Bop label. Her music blends traditional Afro-Peruvian rhythms with contemporary influences, creating a unique sound that honors her cultural heritage.
Baca’s commitment to preserving Afro-Peruvian culture extends beyond her music; she has also been an advocate for social justice and cultural preservation in Peru. In 2011, Baca became the first Afro-Peruvian Minister of Culture, further solidifying her influence both as an artist and a cultural leader. Her contributions to music and her efforts to promote Afro-Peruvian culture have earned her numerous awards, including multiple Latin Grammy Awards, making her one of the most respected and beloved figures in Latin American music.
#3 Eva Ayllón
Eva Ayllón, born in 1956 as María Angélica Ayllón Urbina, is one of Peru’s most prominent and beloved singers, known for her mastery of Afro-Peruvian and Creole music. Ayllón’s career began in the 1970s, and she quickly became known for her powerful voice and her ability to convey deep emotion through her performances. Her repertoire includes a wide range of traditional Peruvian genres, such as vals, marinera, and festejo, which she has helped to popularize both in Peru and internationally.
Ayllón’s music is characterized by its rhythmic complexity and its ability to evoke the rich cultural heritage of Peru. She has released numerous albums throughout her career, earning multiple awards and accolades for her contributions to Peruvian music. Ayllón’s influence on the preservation and promotion of Afro-Peruvian music is immense, and she continues to be a vital force in the world of Latin music, inspiring new generations of artists with her passion and dedication to her craft.
#4 Chabuca Granda
Chabuca Granda, born in 1920 as María Isabel Granda Larco, was a Peruvian singer and composer who is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of Latin American music. Granda’s music, particularly her compositions in the vals criollo and marinera genres, became anthems of Peruvian culture. Her most famous song, “La Flor de la Canela,” is a beloved classic that has been covered by countless artists and remains a symbol of Peruvian identity.
Granda’s music is known for its poetic lyrics, which often celebrate the beauty of Peruvian landscapes and the resilience of its people. Her innovative approach to traditional music, including the incorporation of jazz and other modern elements, helped to modernize and popularize Creole music. Chabuca Granda’s legacy as a composer and cultural icon continues to be celebrated in Peru and beyond, and her contributions to music have left an indelible mark on Latin American culture.
#5 Pedro Suárez-Vértiz
Pedro Suárez-Vértiz, born in 1969, is a Peruvian singer, songwriter, and musician who became one of the most popular rock and pop artists in Peru during the 1990s and 2000s. Suárez-Vértiz’s music is known for its catchy melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and his distinctive voice, which have earned him a devoted fanbase. His debut solo album, No Existen Técnicas para Olvidar (1993), was a massive success, featuring hits like “Globo de Gas” and “Los Globos del Cielo.”
Throughout his career, Suárez-Vértiz has released numerous albums that have topped the charts in Peru, including Póntelo en la Lengua and Play. His music often explores themes of love, personal growth, and social issues, resonating with audiences across generations. Despite being diagnosed with dysphonia, a condition that affects his ability to speak and sing, Suárez-Vértiz remains an influential figure in Peruvian music, and his legacy as one of the country’s leading rock and pop artists endures.
#6 Gian Marco
Gian Marco, born in 1970 as Gian Marco Javier Zignago Alcóver, is a Peruvian singer, songwriter, and musician who has gained international acclaim for his work in Latin pop and ballads. Gian Marco’s career began in the early 1990s, and he quickly established himself as a talented songwriter and performer with hits like “Te Extrañaré” and “Dime Dónde.” His music, characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and melodic compositions, has earned him a loyal following in Peru and across Latin America.
In addition to his success as a performer, Gian Marco is also a highly respected songwriter, having written songs for some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, and Alejandro Fernández. He has won multiple Latin Grammy Awards, including three for Best Singer-Songwriter Album, cementing his reputation as one of the most important voices in Latin music. Gian Marco’s ability to connect with audiences through his music has made him a beloved figure in the Latin music industry.
#7 Tania Libertad
Tania Libertad, born in 1952, is a renowned Peruvian singer who has earned international acclaim for her versatile voice and ability to perform across multiple genres, including bolero, ranchera, Afro-Peruvian, and Latin jazz. Libertad’s career began at a young age, and she quickly rose to prominence in Latin America with her passionate interpretations of traditional and contemporary songs. Her move to Mexico in the 1980s further expanded her career, and she became one of the most respected and beloved singers in the Spanish-speaking world.
Libertad’s music is characterized by its emotional depth and her commitment to social and cultural causes, often using her platform to advocate for human rights and social justice. Over the years, she has released more than 40 albums and has received numerous awards, including the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Tania Libertad’s contributions to Latin music and her ability to transcend genres have made her one of the most influential Peruvian artists of her time.
#8 Lucha Reyes
Lucha Reyes, born in 1936 as Lucila Justina Sarcines Reyes, was a legendary Peruvian singer known as the “Queen of Peruvian Creole Song.” Reyes’s career, though tragically short, had a profound impact on the development and popularization of Peruvian música criolla, a genre that blends Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Her powerful voice and emotive performances made her one of the most beloved figures in Peruvian music, with hits like “Regresa,” “José Antonio,” and “La Flor de la Canela” becoming anthems of Peruvian culture.
Despite facing personal struggles and health issues, Reyes’s music resonated deeply with audiences, and she became a symbol of resilience and passion. Her influence on the criollo genre is immense, and her songs continue to be celebrated and covered by artists across generations. Lucha Reyes’s legacy as a cultural icon remains strong in Peru, where she is remembered not only for her contributions to music but also for her indomitable spirit.
#9 Lucía de la Cruz
Lucía de la Cruz, born in 1953, is a Peruvian singer known for her powerful voice and her deep connection to música criolla, particularly the Afro-Peruvian genres of vals and marinera. De la Cruz began her career in the 1960s and quickly gained recognition for her passionate performances and her ability to convey the emotional depth of traditional Peruvian music. Her interpretations of classics like “Toro Mata,” “Idolatría,” and “Yo Perdí el Corazón” have made her one of the most respected figures in Peruvian music.
Throughout her career, Lucía de la Cruz has been a fierce advocate for preserving and promoting Peruvian cultural heritage, often incorporating elements of African, Spanish, and indigenous traditions into her music. Her contributions to the revival and popularization of Afro-Peruvian music have earned her numerous accolades and a loyal fanbase. De la Cruz’s enduring influence on Peruvian music is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft, making her one of the most iconic voices in the genre.
#10 Jean Paul Strauss
Jean Paul Strauss, born in 1970, is a Peruvian singer, songwriter, and television personality known for his eclectic music style that blends Latin pop, rock, and traditional Peruvian sounds. Strauss first gained popularity in the 1990s with his hit single “Viento y Arena,” which showcased his ability to merge modern pop influences with the rich cultural heritage of Peru. His music often explores themes of love, identity, and social issues, resonating with a broad audience both in Peru and internationally.
In addition to his music career, Strauss has also been a prominent figure in Peruvian television, hosting and participating in various entertainment programs. His versatility as an artist and entertainer has made him a well-known and respected figure in the Peruvian entertainment industry. Jean Paul Strauss’s contributions to music and television have solidified his status as a significant cultural figure in Peru, with a career that continues to evolve and inspire.
#11 William Luna
William Luna, born in 1967, is a Peruvian singer and songwriter known for his contributions to Andean music and his ability to blend traditional folk elements with contemporary sounds. Luna’s career began in the early 1990s, and he quickly became known for his emotive voice and his ability to convey the beauty and depth of Andean culture through his music. His hit songs, such as “Niñachay,” “Vienes y Te Vas,” and “Linda Andahuaylina,” have become classics in the Andean music genre.
Luna’s music is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Andes, often incorporating instruments like the charango, quena, and panpipes, while also exploring modern themes and styles. His dedication to preserving and promoting Andean music has earned him a devoted following, and he is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in contemporary Peruvian folk music. William Luna’s influence on Andean music continues to grow, making him a vital force in the preservation of Peru’s cultural heritage.
#12 Fabiola de la Cuba
Fabiola de la Cuba, born in 1966, is a Peruvian singer, performer, and cultural ambassador known for her work in preserving and promoting Peruvian music and traditions. De la Cuba’s career is marked by her commitment to showcasing the diversity of Peru’s musical heritage, from Afro-Peruvian rhythms to Andean melodies and Amazonian sounds. Her performances are often grand spectacles that incorporate music, dance, and visual arts, creating an immersive experience that celebrates Peru’s cultural richness.
De la Cuba has performed both in Peru and internationally, earning acclaim for her artistic vision and her dedication to cultural preservation. Her albums, including Raíces del Perú and Tierra de Encanto, reflect her deep connection to Peru’s musical roots and her ability to bring traditional sounds to contemporary audiences. Fabiola de la Cuba’s work has made her a cultural icon in Peru, and she continues to inspire others with her passion for promoting and preserving Peruvian culture.
#13 Dina Páucar
Dina Páucar, born in 1969, is a Peruvian singer and songwriter known as the “Goddess of Huayno” for her contributions to the popular Andean genre. Páucar’s music career began in the 1990s, and she quickly rose to fame with her powerful voice and her ability to connect with audiences through songs that explore themes of love, heartbreak, and social issues. Her hit songs, such as “Que Lindos Son Tus Ojos,” “Canta Corazón,” and “Madre,” have made her one of the most beloved figures in Peruvian folk music.
Páucar’s music is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Andes, often incorporating traditional instruments and rhythms, while also addressing contemporary themes. Her success has helped to popularize huayno music beyond the Andean region, bringing it to a wider audience both in Peru and internationally. Dina Páucar’s influence on Peruvian music is profound, and she continues to be a leading voice in the preservation and promotion of Andean culture.
#14 Leslie Shaw
Leslie Shaw, born in 1989, is a Peruvian singer, songwriter, and model who has gained recognition for her work in pop and urban music. Shaw first gained fame in the mid-2000s as a contestant on the reality TV show Superstar and later as a member of the pop group Glow. Her solo career took off in the 2010s with the release of hit singles like “Ven,” “Loco,” and “Faldita,” which showcased her ability to blend pop, reggaeton, and urban beats into a fresh and contemporary sound.
Shaw’s music often explores themes of empowerment, love, and independence, resonating with a young and diverse audience. In addition to her success in music, Shaw has also pursued a career in modeling and acting, making her a well-rounded and versatile entertainer. Leslie Shaw’s influence on the Peruvian pop and urban music scene continues to grow, and she is recognized as one of the leading female artists in the country’s contemporary music landscape.
#15 Marisol
Marisol, born Marisol Ramírez Vásquez in 1977, is a Peruvian singer known as “La Faraona de la Cumbia” for her powerful voice and significant contributions to the genre of Peruvian cumbia. Marisol’s career began in the late 1990s, and she quickly gained fame with her energetic performances and emotional renditions of popular cumbia songs. Her hits, such as “La Escobita,” “El Picaflor,” and “Te Vas,” have become staples in the Peruvian cumbia scene, earning her a loyal fanbase.
Marisol’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment, resonating with a wide audience across Peru. Her ability to blend traditional cumbia rhythms with contemporary influences has helped to modernize the genre and bring it to new generations of listeners. Marisol’s influence on Peruvian cumbia is profound, and she continues to be one of the most respected and popular figures in the genre, known for her dynamic stage presence and dedication to her craft.
#16 Anna Carina
Anna Carina, born Anna Carina Copello Hora in 1981, is a Peruvian singer, songwriter, and television personality who has made a significant impact on the pop and Latin music scenes in Peru. Carina’s career began in the early 2000s with the release of her debut album Algo Personal, which included the hit single “Crazy Love.” Her music, characterized by catchy melodies and pop beats, quickly gained popularity, establishing her as one of Peru’s leading pop artists.
Carina’s subsequent albums, including Anna Carina and Quiero Contigo, continued her success, with hits like “Dime Si Esto Es Amor” and “Ya Fue Demasiado.” In addition to her music career, Carina has also been a prominent figure in Peruvian television, participating in various reality shows and music programs. Her versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with a broad audience have made her a well-known and respected figure in the Peruvian entertainment industry. Anna Carina’s contributions to pop music in Peru have solidified her place as one of the country’s most successful contemporary artists.
#17 Wendy Sulca
Wendy Sulca, born in 1996, is a Peruvian singer who gained international attention at a young age with her viral music videos featuring traditional Andean music. Sulca first became known in the late 2000s with songs like “La Tetita,” “Cerveza, Cerveza,” and “Papito,” which were initially popular for their novelty but later recognized for their cultural significance. Her music, which blends traditional Andean sounds with modern pop elements, has earned her a unique place in the Peruvian music scene.
As she matured, Sulca expanded her musical repertoire, incorporating more contemporary styles such as pop and reggaeton, while maintaining her connection to her Andean roots. Her later work, including songs like “Explosión” and “Candela,” reflects her evolution as an artist and her desire to break away from her earlier image. Wendy Sulca’s journey from a viral sensation to a respected artist highlights her resilience and determination, and she continues to be an influential figure in Peruvian music, particularly among young audiences.
#18 Tony Succar
Tony Succar, born in 1986, is a Peruvian-American percussionist, composer, and producer who has gained international acclaim for his innovative work in Latin jazz, salsa, and tropical music. Succar’s career began in the United States, where he was raised, but he has always maintained a strong connection to his Peruvian roots. He first gained widespread recognition with his project Unity: The Latin Tribute to Michael Jackson, where he reimagined Jackson’s classic hits with a Latin twist. The project was a commercial success and showcased Succar’s talent for blending different musical styles.
Succar’s dedication to preserving and promoting Latin music has earned him multiple awards, including two Latin Grammy Awards in 2019 for Producer of the Year and Best Salsa Album. His work is characterized by its vibrant rhythms, intricate arrangements, and a deep respect for musical traditions, while also pushing the boundaries of genre. Tony Succar’s influence on Latin music is significant, and he continues to be a leading figure in the contemporary Latin music scene, both as a performer and a producer.
#19 Daniela Darcourt
Daniela Darcourt, born in 1996, is a Peruvian salsa singer, songwriter, and dancer who has quickly risen to fame as one of the leading voices in contemporary salsa music. Darcourt’s career began in her early teens when she started performing with various local salsa bands in Lima, eventually gaining recognition for her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. Her breakthrough came with the release of her hit single “Probablemente” in 2018, which established her as a major force in the Latin music scene.
Darcourt’s music is characterized by its modern take on traditional salsa rhythms, blending urban influences with the classic sounds of salsa. Her subsequent hits, including “Adiós Amor” and “Te Equivocaste Conmigo,” have further solidified her status as a rising star in Latin music. In addition to her success as a recording artist, Darcourt has also served as a coach on the Peruvian version of The Voice, further expanding her influence in the music industry. Daniela Darcourt’s dynamic performances and commitment to her craft have made her one of the most promising young talents in Peruvian music today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Yma Sumac achieve international fame with her unique vocal abilities?
Yma Sumac became famous in the 1950s for her extraordinary four-octave vocal range, which allowed her to perform a wide variety of genres, including exotica and traditional Peruvian music. Her distinctive sound and dramatic performances captivated audiences worldwide, making her one of the most iconic figures in music history.
What role has Susana Baca played in preserving Afro-Peruvian music?
Susana Baca has been instrumental in reviving and promoting Afro-Peruvian music through her recordings and performances. As an ethnomusicologist and cultural advocate, she has worked tirelessly to preserve the rich musical traditions of her Afro-Peruvian heritage.
Why is Chabuca Granda considered a cultural icon in Peru?
Chabuca Granda is celebrated for her poetic compositions that modernized and popularized traditional Peruvian music, particularly the vals criollo. Her song “La Flor de la Canela” remains an enduring symbol of Peruvian identity and cultural pride.
How has Gian Marco influenced Latin music as both a performer and songwriter?
Gian Marco has achieved international acclaim for his heartfelt Latin pop songs, both as a performer and a songwriter for other prominent Latin artists. His music resonates with audiences due to its emotional depth and relatable themes, earning him multiple Latin Grammy Awards.
