EMI Latin (EMI Televisa Music): History and Influence in Latin Popular Music

History

The label was created in 1989 to give EMI a stronger presence in Latin-language markets. Under the leadership of Jose Behar, the company moved quickly to sign Latin acts and develop a roster aimed at both U.S. Hispanic audiences and markets in Latin America. One of the earliest and most notable signings was Selena, who became the label's first artist and later achieved significant commercial and cultural impact.

In the mid-2000s the business was reorganized into a joint venture with the Mexican media company Televisa and marketed as EMI Televisa Music, reflecting a closer partnership for promotion and distribution in Spanish-speaking territories. Like many legacy labels, its catalog and corporate structure were affected by the broader restructuring and asset sales of EMI in the 2010s, which redistributed parts of the company's recorded-music holdings among several major groups.

Notable contributions and legacy

• Helped bring Latin artists to wider international audiences through targeted marketing and distribution.
• Provided early major-label support to performers who crossed over from regional Latin markets into mainstream charts.
• Left a catalog of recordings that remains part of Latin popular-music history; ownership of specific releases has changed hands as the industry consolidated.

People

1. Jose Behar — served as head of the label during its formative years and was instrumental in talent recruitment and artist development.
2. Selena — the label's first signed artist, who helped define the company's early public profile.