In the heart of Central America lies Panama, a vibrant tapestry of cultures, colors, and Caribbean flair. It’s a place where every individual carries a rhythm in their step, a song in their heart, and a story on their lips.
As a hub of commerce and investment, Panama has not only flourished in the business realm but has also carved a niche in the world of arts.
Erika Ender
This prolific composer of the Latin musical market was born in Panama, but is of Brazilian descent. She sings and composes in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. The Panamanian singer is one of the creators of the smash hit, “Despacito” that she composed with Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee.
Ender has composed themes for several artists such as Gloria Trevi, Chayanne, Víctor Manuelle, among others. Her talent is recognized in the music industry and was the only woman nominated in 2017 to enter the Hall of Fame of Latin Composers.
Rubén Blades
He is the first artist to lead this list. Rubén Blades is multifaceted and therefore has excelled in the world of music, acting and politics. During his golden age he recorded songs in duet with Willie Colón, and composed songs for other artists, including “El cantante”, interpreted by Héctor Lavoe, one of his most emblematic songs.
He is also known as the “salsa poet” and is admired for the depth in the lyrics of his songs. He has been awarded nine Grammy Awards in his career, and has done an important job in Hollywood as an actor in independent productions. Among the films he has been a character actor in are “The Last Fight”, “Once upon a time in Mexico” and “Predator 2”.
The Rabanes
This ska punk band that began in the nineties and is integrated by Emilio Regueira (Guitar and Voice), Christian “Pipón” Torres (Bass) and Javier Saavedra (Drums). Nowadays it is considered the most emblematic group of fusion rock in Latin America. It won a Latin Grammy Award in 2007.
In 2015 they made a world tour in more than 35 cities in Latin America and the United States. It is one of the best-known music bands in Latin America.
Jordana Brewster
This model and actress born in Panama is also known for her most iconic role in Hollywood with the saga “Fast and Furious” with her character called Mía Toreto.
Brewster has been featured in television series, and was nominated for the Teen Choice Award, which she won in 2009.
Joey Montana
This Panamanian artist has devoted to urban genres as the reggaeton. He started as a soloist but later joined the group La Factoría, managing to sell around 100,000 copies internationally.
Joey participated in several productions in Panama and abroad. Among them were: “Planet Farm 3”, “Mafia”, “The Empire”, “The Band”, “The Clan”, among others, directed by El Chombo and Dj Pablito. Among his best known songs are: “La Melodía”, “Tus ojos no me ven”, “Si muriera mañana” and the famous “Si te vas”.
Jimmy Bad Boy
Guillermo Rodríguez Alveo, so called as Jimmy Bad Boy, is a Panamanian reggae singer. He started his musical career when he was thirteen years old, when he sang on television shows in Panama with his group Los Crazy Boys. His songs “Bailando” and “Si pudiera estar con ella”, are part of the Panamanian culture. His style predominates in romantic compositions. Jimmy was the first Panamanian romantic artist to hit in Spain, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil.
Leonte Bordanea
Panamanian singer songwriter, voice and leader of the band Instinto and with great musical career. He made a good part of his musical career in Spain, where he also devoted himself to theater.
In 2004 he was part of the cast of “Hoy no me puedo levantar”, a musical directed by Nacho Cano, member of the hit musical group Mecano. He has recorded several successful albums as a soloist.
Patricia de León
Actress, model and television host born in Panama. She represented her country in the Miss Universe contest. She has excelled by her work as a professional model for MAXIM, SOHO, FHM and for her performance in the television series Crossing Jordan, Cold Case and PETA Ambassador.
Mercedes Moltó
Actress born in Panama City who has developed her career successfully in Mexico. The press emphasizes her participation in drama series such as Mujeres Asesinas, La Rosa de Guadalupe and several soap operas produced and transmitted in Televisa. She also worked on Telemundo in the series “Relaciones Peligrosas” in 2012. She currently lives in Spain.
Nando Boom
Fernando Brown, better known by his stage name Nando Boom, is a Panamanian reggae en Español singer. He’s considered one of the pioneers of the Spanish-language dancehall reggae genre. His music has been influential in the reggaeton movement, with hits like “Ellos Benia” being sampled by many reggaeton producers.
Sech
Carlos Isaias Morales Williams, better known as Sech, is a Panamanian singer and songwriter. He gained international fame with his single “Otro Trago”, which was a huge success across Latin America. His unique voice and style have made him one of the most sought-after artists in the Latin urban music scene.
El General
Edgardo Franco, known as El General, is a Panamanian reggae artist considered by some to be one of the fathers of “Reggae Español”. During the early 1990s, he initiated the Spanish spoken dancehall that would later become reggaeton. Hits like “Tu Pum Pum” and “Rica y Apretadita” made him famous internationally.
Los Rabanes
Another mention for this iconic group, they are a Latin Grammy-winning Panamanian rock band. Originally from Chitré, Herrera, they started as a punk band and later evolved into a fusion rock band, mixing several rhythms like ska, reggae, calypso, and even disco.
Samy y Sandra Sandoval
Known as “Los Patrones de la Cumbia”, this brother-sister duo has been one of the most enduring and popular acts in Panama. They’ve been instrumental in popularizing the “típico” style of music in Panama and have a vast number of hits to their name.
Final Words
Panama, with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic spirit, has given the world a plethora of talents that have left an indelible mark on the global stage. From music to acting, these Panamanian artists embody the nation’s soul, passion, and resilience. Their achievements are not just a testament to their individual prowess but also a reflection of Panama’s undying spirit and its contribution to the world of arts and entertainment. As we celebrate these icons, we are reminded of the beauty, depth, and diversity that Panama brings to the world..