Voces Digital: 5 Songs About Work, Money, and Hope

Hard work, low pay, big dreams these themes run deep in Latin American music. Through rhythm and poetry, artists across generations have transformed everyday struggles into songs of resilience and hope. Here are five Spanish-language hits that explore what it means to work, to dream, and to keep believing in a brighter tomorrow.

All songs below are in a Roxxem playlist with Spanish lyrics, videos, and interactive activities like slides, worksheets, and games.

1. “Mañana Será Bonito” – Karol G ft. Carla Morrison

Karol G and Carla Morrison deliver a beautiful reminder that even after heartbreak or hardship, mañana será bonito — tomorrow will be beautiful. Their blend of pop and emotional depth speaks to self-love and healing. The song encourages listeners to hold on to hope, even when life feels uncertain.

🎧 Theme: Optimism, resilience, emotional recovery
🧩 Level: B1 – Future Tense, Positive Expressions

Explore "Mañana Será Bonito" on Roxxem.

2. “Latinoamérica” – Calle 13

Calle 13’s “Latinoamérica” is an anthem of identity and pride. It celebrates the strength of Latin American people, honoring those who work the land, raise families, and keep culture alive through adversity. With poetic lyrics and powerful imagery, the song teaches that wealth isn’t measured in money, but in roots, love, and dignity.

🎧 Theme: Identity, unity, cultural pride
🧩 Level: B2+ – Ser vs. Estar, Present Tense

Explore "Latinoamérica" on Roxxem.

3. “Algún Día” – Bobby Pulido

“Algún Día” captures the heart of working-class dreams. Bobby Pulido sings of striving for success and a better life while staying true to love and family. It’s an inspiring cumbia that resonates with anyone chasing hope despite financial struggles.

🎧 Theme: Dreams, family, perseverance
🧩 Level: A2+ – Ir + a + Infinitive, Family & Home Life

Explore "Algún Día" on Roxxem.

4. “No voy a trabajar” – Bermudas

In contrast to the grind, “No voy a trabajar” adds humor and lightness. Bermudas playfully celebrates the joy of skipping work for a little dance and freedom. With its samba rhythm and catchy lyrics, it’s a cheerful reminder that rest is part of balance — and sometimes rebellion.

🎧 Theme: Leisure, work-life balance, humor
🧩 Level: C1 – Present Tense, Ir + a + Infinitive

Explore "No voy a trabajar" on Roxxem.

5. “Shock” – Ana Tijoux

Ana Tijoux’s “Shock” is a bold protest against injustice and inequality. With raw lyrics and an electro beat, it calls for unity and action. It’s a song that pushes listeners to question the system — and to turn anger into empowerment.

🎧 Theme: Social justice, protest, empowerment
🧩 Level: B1+ – Preterite & Present Tense

Explore "Shock" on Roxxem.

From long workdays and low pay to dreaming of a better future, these songs offer students an authentic, engaging way to explore themes of work, money, and hope. Whether you’re introducing new vocabulary, encouraging cultural discussion, or helping students connect with real-life experiences in Latin America, music is one of the most powerful tools in the Spanish classroom.

🟣 Click here for the full Voces Digital curriculum, complete with reading, writing, and discussion activities.

🟠 Click to explore these songs in Roxxem, where you’ll also find Spanish lyrics, music videos, games, and classroom-ready materials for every song featured.