Cristiano: Songs of Faith

Following his conversion to Christianity, Dominican bachata master Juan Luis Guerra became one of the biggest names in Latin music who routinely drops religious references in his songs. Roberto Carlos' feel-good anthem "Fe" talks about seeing God everywhere. Vico C is the main exponent of Christian minded hip-hop.

We begin this section with two memorable Colombian covers of religious salsa songs: Los Titanes recreate the feverish vibe of Héctor Lavoe's "El Todopoderoso," and Gabino Pampini pays tribute to the vocal magic of Ismael Rivera through his reading of Cortijo's "El Nazareno." Elsewhere, Cuban diva La Lupe injects oodles of passion into "La Virgen Lloraba."

Like many Puerto Rican salseros, Tony Vega began enriching his music with Christian references after embracing religion. Lilly Goodman adds a touch of honeyed vocal goodness to the reflective "Sin Dolor." Of the many Latin artists who have delved in Christian themes, Marcos Witt is one of the most sensitive ones - witness the epic, 11 minute-long "Dios De Pactos."

Christianity has been a huge part of life in Latin America for centuries, which explains why so many Latin singers and songwriters continue to express their faith through music. Interestingly, the work of artists like Juan Luis Guerra, Jaci Velásquez, Marcos Witt and Vico C sounds equally compelling even you don't listen to the lyrics - the Christian messages add fuel to an already powerful musical statement. From salsa to bachata and Latin pop, these 75 songs explore themes of faith, joy and mystical redemption.