Apr 9, 2025 - Culture

Vicente Fernández's "El Rey" among Latino additions to Library of Congress

Madalyn Mendoza

Side-by-side images of Vicente Fernandez and Freddy Fender performing on stage. — Vicente Fernández (left) and Freddy Fender. Photos: Kevin Winter via Getty Images and Tim Mosenfelder via Getty Images

The Library of Congress announced Wednesday that it will induct Vicente Fernández's "El Rey," Freddy Fender's "Before the Next Teardrop Falls" and the "Hamilton" soundtrack, by Lin-Manuel Miranda, into the National Recording Registry.

Why it matters: Latino musicians currently account for less than 5% of the registry's titles, according to U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-San Antonio).

Catch up quick: The registry, established in 2000, preserves recordings that are culturally, historically or aesthetically significant to life in the U.S.

The new entries help preserve Latino music for future generations and highlights its impact on American culture and history.

How it works: Castro, a longtime advocate for Latino representation in the arts, invites the public each year to suggest titles for him to nominate.

A number of Castro's nominations have been selected for the registry, including Juan Gabriel's "Amor Eterno," Héctor Lavoe's "El Cantante," Irene Cara's "Flashdance…What a Feeling" and Daddy Yankee's "Gasolina."

What they're saying: "Today's announcement represents the Library of Congress' growing recognition that music by Latino musicians has shaped the soundtrack of American life," Castro said in a statement.

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Vicente Fernández's "El Rey" among Latino additions to Library of Congress

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