As we near the end of the year, #NowPlaying recommends songs that have slipped through the cracks, but are sticking in our headphones.

Is it wrong to say that I forgot Christina Aguilera was Latina? Even for those of us who are proud of the pop purse, Xtina’s second album Mi Reflejo was an early career incident, largely overshadowed by the resistance of his eponymous debut. As several pop stars returned to their sonic roots this year (looking at you Camila), Aguilera brought in heavyweights for her own contribution: the Spanish-language single “Pa Mis Muchachas”. Helped by Becky G, Nicki Nicole and Nathy Peluso, the song is a sweet Guaracha ode to Latina. With a catchy chorus and signature riffs, Aguilera’s voice works well alongside his team of collaborators.

Still, it’s interesting how, after years of releasing pop music that fills stadiums, she decided to go back to her roots. It makes me wonder about the authenticity of its suddenly aesthetic pivot. Is it because Latin music is in at present? An untapped market for the mainstream pop girl machine? Or, on the contrary, does she finally feel comfortable after two decades of hitmaking to return to the sound that has accompanied her since the start of her career, this time without fear of a flop?