Chilean Radio Charts Reveal Enduring Power of Classic Hits & Emerging Trends
The Sociedad Chilena de Autores e Intérpretes Musicales (SCD) recently released its annual ranking of the most-played Chilean songs on local radio stations for 2025. A surprising result topped the charts: Joe Vasconcellos’ “Las Seis,” a track originally released in 1995, secured the number one spot.
The Reign of Nostalgia: Why Older Songs Still Dominate
“Las Seis” resonated with listeners, racking up 14,571 plays throughout the year. This success isn’t an isolated incident. The top ten list is heavily populated with established artists and enduring classics, including Los Bunkers (“Bailando Solo”), Los Vásquez (“Por La Carretera”), and Los Prisioneros (“Tren Al Sur”).
This trend highlights the powerful role of nostalgia in music consumption. Listeners often gravitate towards songs that evoke positive memories and a sense of familiarity. Radio stations, recognizing this, continue to program these beloved tracks, ensuring their continued relevance.
A Generational Shift: Katteyes and Kidd Voodoo Break Through
While established artists dominate, the list isn’t entirely devoid of newer voices. Katteyes and Kidd Voodoo’s “Ponte Lokita” landed at number 15, offering a glimpse into the evolving musical landscape. This represents a notable achievement, demonstrating that emerging artists can still gain significant radio airplay alongside established stars.
The Importance of Radio Airplay in the Digital Age
Despite the rise of streaming services, radio remains a crucial platform for music discovery and artist exposure in Chile. The SCD’s annual ranking underscores this fact. The data collected through the Vericast program is also vital for the distribution of royalties and ensuring fair compensation for artists.
According to SCD, 60.5% of national radio stations met the legal minimum for Chilean music programming in 2025, with an average of 24.9 Chilean songs played per station. These figures remain consistent with previous years, indicating a stable commitment to supporting local music.
The Role of SCD in Protecting Chilean Music
The Sociedad Chilena de Autores e Intérpretes Musicales (SCD) plays a critical role in managing copyright and advocating for the rights of Chilean musicians. Founded in 1987, the SCD represents over ten thousand artists and manages a vast repertoire of musical works, both national and international.
The organization also actively promotes Chilean music through initiatives like the Premios Pulsar and the Feria Pulsar, fostering a vibrant and thriving music industry.
Looking Ahead: Potential Future Trends
Several trends are likely to shape the future of Chilean music and radio. Increased investment in local music production, coupled with greater support for emerging artists, could lead to a more diverse and dynamic radio landscape. The continued growth of digital platforms will also necessitate innovative strategies for reaching audiences and monetizing music.
the SCD’s ongoing efforts to ensure fair compensation for artists and promote the consumption of Chilean music will be crucial for the long-term sustainability of the industry.
FAQ
Q: What is the SCD?
A: The Sociedad Chilena de Autores e Intérpretes Musicales is a Chilean organization that manages copyright and promotes the work of Chilean musicians.
Q: Which song was the most played on Chilean radio in 2025?
A: “Las Seis” by Joe Vasconcellos.
Q: How does the SCD track radio airplay?
A: The SCD uses a program called Vericast to monitor airplay on over 400 local radio stations.
Q: What percentage of Chilean radio stations met the legal minimum for playing Chilean music in 2025?
A: 60.5%
Q: What is the significance of the Premios Pulsar?
A: The Premios Pulsar are a major awards show that recognizes and celebrates Chilean musical talent.
Pro Tip: Support Chilean artists by listening to their music on streaming platforms and attending live concerts!
Want to learn more about the Chilean music scene? Explore the SCD website for the latest news and information.
