Reggaeton has grown from its underground roots in Puerto Rico to become one of the most dominant genres in global music. With its infectious beats, relatable lyrics, and ability to blend with other genres, reggaeton has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. At Bola 8, London’s ultimate Latin party destination, reggaeton is more than just music—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re dancing to the latest hits or reminiscing about classics, the genre’s evolution is a testament to its enduring appeal.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best reggaeton songs of the last decade, highlighting one standout track from each year. We’ll also explore earlier milestones in reggaeton history, including iconic tracks from the 2000s, and how they shaped the genre we know and love today.
The Early Days of Reggaeton: 2000s Classics
The 2000s were a defining era for reggaeton, with artists like Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, and Wisin & Yandel bringing the genre to the forefront of Latin music. Tracks like “Gasolina” (2004) by Daddy Yankee and “Dale Don Dale” (2003) by Don Omar became global anthems, introducing reggaeton to audiences far beyond Latin America.
By 2005, reggaeton had cemented its place in mainstream music, with hits like “Lo Que Pasó, Pasó” by Daddy Yankee dominating the charts. The genre’s infectious rhythms and relatable lyrics resonated with fans worldwide, making it a staple at parties and clubs.
In 2006, Wisin & Yandel released “Rakata”, a track that showcased their unique style and solidified their status as reggaeton legends. Meanwhile, 2008 saw the rise of Jowell & Randy with their hit “No Te Veo”, a song that brought a playful energy to the genre.
As the decade progressed, reggaeton continued to evolve, with artists experimenting with new sounds and themes. By 2011, Don Omar’s “Danza Kuduro” had taken the world by storm, blending reggaeton with Afro-Caribbean influences to create a global hit.
The Best Reggaeton Songs of the Last Decade
Let’s dive into the last ten years of reggaeton and highlight the best reggaeton songs from each year. These tracks not only defined their respective years but also showcased the genre’s versatility and ability to evolve with the times.
2014: “6 AM” by J Balvin ft. Farruko
In 2014, J Balvin emerged as a leading figure in reggaeton with his hit “6 AM”. The song’s catchy melody and storytelling lyrics about a wild night out resonated with fans, marking the beginning of Balvin’s rise to global stardom.
2015: “El Perdón” by Nicky Jam ft. Enrique Iglesias
2015 was the year of Nicky Jam’s comeback, and “El Perdón” was the track that solidified his return. A heartfelt song about lost love, it became a global sensation, blending reggaeton with pop influences and showcasing the genre’s emotional depth.
2016: “Shaky Shaky” by Daddy Yankee
Daddy Yankee proved his staying power in 2016 with “Shaky Shaky”, a track that brought reggaeton back to its dancefloor roots. The song’s infectious beat and simple yet effective lyrics made it a viral hit, dominating clubs and social media.
2017: “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee
No list of best reggaeton songs would be complete without mentioning “Despacito”. Released in 2017, this track became a global phenomenon, breaking records and introducing reggaeton to new audiences worldwide. Its blend of reggaeton and pop set a new standard for the genre.
2018: “Te Boté (Remix)” by Nio García, Casper Mágico, Bad Bunny, Ozuna, and Nicky Jam
In 2018, the “Te Boté (Remix)” became the ultimate breakup anthem. Featuring an all-star lineup, the song’s raw emotion and catchy hook made it a massive hit, proving that reggaeton could tackle themes of heartbreak and empowerment.
2019: “Callaíta” by Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny continued to push the boundaries of reggaeton in 2019 with “Callaíta”. The track’s laid-back vibe and introspective lyrics showcased a different side of the genre, appealing to fans of reggaeton sad songs while still being a party favourite.
2020: “Tusa” by Karol G ft. Nicki Minaj
2020 was the year of “Tusa”, a collaboration between Karol G and Nicki Minaj that became an instant classic. The song’s empowering lyrics and infectious beat made it a staple at parties, cementing Karol G’s status as one of reggaeton’s leading ladies.
2021: “Pepas” by Farruko
In 2021, Farruko’s “Pepas” took the world by storm with its high-energy beat and festival-ready vibe. The track became a global anthem, blending reggaeton with electronic influences to create a unique sound that resonated with fans everywhere.
2022: “Provenza” by Karol G
Karol G continued to dominate the reggaeton scene in 2022 with “Provenza”, a feel-good track that celebrated love and freedom. Its tropical vibes and catchy melody made it a standout hit, showcasing the genre’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
2023: “La Jumpa” by Bad Bunny ft. Arcángel
In 2023, Bad Bunny once again proved his versatility with “La Jumpa”, a collaboration with Arcángel that blended reggaeton with trap influences. The song’s hype energy and innovative production made it a favourite among fans of reggaeton hype songs.
Reggaeton’s Emotional Side: Songs About Friendship and Heartbreak
While reggaeton is often associated with party anthems, the genre also has a softer, more emotional side. Tracks like “El Perdón” and “Callaíta” explore themes of heartbreak, while songs like “Amigos Con Derechos” by Reik and Maluma celebrate friendship and love. These reggaeton songs about friendship and loss add depth to the genre, proving that reggaeton is more than just dance music.
Reggaeton on the Dancefloor: How It Sounds at Bola 8
There’s a massive difference between playing reggaeton through your headphones and feeling it on the dancefloor at Bola 8. When one of those top reggaeton songs drops—whether it’s something from Bad Bunny or a new Karol G hit—the whole room moves as one. The bass kicks in, the lights flicker, and suddenly you’re not just listening, you’re living it. It’s one thing to know the best reggaeton songs, but another to dance to them surrounded by energy, friends and pure Latin fire.
Reggaeton as a Global Language
What started in the barrios of Puerto Rico now echoes through clubs in Tokyo, Berlin, and of course, right here in London. At Bola 8, we see first-hand how reggaeton speaks to everyone, no matter their background. Whether it’s the smooth flow of the newer generation or the raw passion of the classic reggaeton songs, the message always hits: joy, resistance, freedom. The best of reggaeton songs go beyond language—they’re universal.
Old School vs. New Wave – Which Side Are You On?
Ask around Bola 8 on any given night and you’ll hear two sides: those who swear nothing beats the raw power of Don Omar and Daddy Yankee, and others who say the future is Feid, Rauw Alejandro, and Young Miko. Luckily, we’re not forced to choose. Our DJs blend the best reggaeton songs from every era—throwbacks, bangers, and fresh tracks—so whether you love the classic reggaeton songs or you’re all about the new school, there’s always something that hits just right. It’s the full reggaeton best songs experience.
Reggaeton Songs Mix: A Blend of Old and New
One of the best ways to experience reggaeton is through a curated reggaeton songs mix that combines classics from the 2000s with modern hits. At Bola 8, the DJs masterfully blend tracks like “Gasolina” and “Rakata” with newer hits like “Tusa” and “Pepas”, creating an unforgettable experience for partygoers.
The Global Influence of Reggaeton
Reggaeton has grown far beyond its Puerto Rican roots to become a global cultural phenomenon. Its infectious rhythms and universal themes have allowed it to transcend language barriers, making it one of the most influential genres in the world. Collaborations with international artists like Nicki Minaj, Drake, and Beyoncé have introduced popular reggaeton songs to new audiences, blending the genre with pop, hip-hop, and even electronic music. Tracks like “Despacito” and “Tusa” are prime examples of how reggaeton has become a staple on global charts, cementing its place among the top reggaeton songs of all time.
The genre’s influence can also be seen in its presence at major music festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza, where reggaeton artists now headline alongside global superstars. This widespread appeal has made reggaeton not just a genre, but a cultural movement that unites people from all walks of life. At Bola 8, this global influence is celebrated every night, with DJs curating a mix of reggaeton best songs that bring together fans from around the world.
The Evolution of Rhythms and Production
One of the reasons reggaeton has remained relevant over the years is its ability to evolve. Early reggaeton tracks like “Gasolina” and “Rakata” were defined by their dembow rhythm, but the genre has since incorporated elements of trap, electronic music, and Afrobeat. Producers like Tainy, Sky Rompiendo, and DJ Luian have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of reggaeton, creating innovative sounds that keep the genre fresh and exciting.
Songs like “Pepas” by Farruko and “La Jumpa” by Bad Bunny showcase how reggaeton continues to experiment with new influences, blending high-energy beats with festival-ready vibes. These tracks have become some of the reggaeton best examples of how the genre can adapt to modern trends while staying true to its roots. At Bola 8, this evolution is on full display, with DJs seamlessly mixing classics with the latest top reggaeton songs, creating an unforgettable experience for partygoers.
The Future of Reggaeton
As reggaeton continues to dominate global music, its future looks brighter than ever. Emerging artists are bringing fresh perspectives to the genre, while established stars like Bad Bunny, Karol G, and J Balvin continue to innovate. The next wave of popular reggaeton songs is likely to feature even more cross-genre collaborations, as reggaeton artists work with musicians from around the world to create new and exciting sounds.
Technology is also playing a role in shaping the future of reggaeton. From AI-assisted production to virtual concerts, the genre is embracing innovation to reach even wider audiences. At Bola 8, the future of reggaeton is celebrated every night, with a playlist that combines the reggaeton best songs of today with the timeless classics that started it all. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, Bola 8 is the perfect place to experience the next chapter in reggaeton’s incredible journey.
Conclusion: Reggaeton’s Timeless Appeal
From its early days in the 2000s to its current status as a global phenomenon, reggaeton has proven its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. Whether you’re dancing to the best reggaeton songs of the last decade or reminiscing about classics from 2005 and 2006, the genre’s infectious energy and emotional depth make it a favourite among music lovers worldwide.
At Bola 8, reggaeton is more than just music—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and rhythm. So, whether you’re in the mood for a nostalgic trip through reggaeton songs 2008 or looking for the perfect reggaeton night tonight, Bola 8 is the place to be. Join us and experience the magic of reggaeton for yourself!