Suzy Exposito: The Deadpan Latina Redefining Latin Music Journalism

Suzy Exposito might be the only deadpan Latina who can serve a cultural critique with the same sharp edge she uses to dissect a Bad Bunny lyric—calm delivery, deep impact. Suzy Exposito is a trailblazing music journalist whose work has significantly shaped the landscape of Latin music journalism in the United States. Born on September 1, 1989, in Jersey City, New Jersey, and raised in Florida, Exposito’s upbringing was marked by a rich cultural heritage. Her father, a Cuban-American, and her mother, a Belizean immigrant, instilled in her a deep appreciation for diverse musical traditions. Growing up in Miami, she was immersed in the sounds of salsa, reggaeton, and classic rock, which influenced her eclectic taste and shaped her unique perspective as a journalist.

Exposito’s journey into music journalism began in her teenage years, where she honed her writing skills through her high school newspaper and later through her own blog. Her passion for music and storytelling led her to pursue a career that would bridge her cultural roots with her love for music. She gained recognition for her work as the pioneering Latin music editor at Rolling Stone, where she founded the magazine’s first-ever Latin music section. In June 2020, she made history by writing the cover story on Bad Bunny, making her the first Latina to pen a cover story for the magazine. Her insightful reporting and deep understanding of Latin music have made her a respected voice in the industry.

Growing up surrounded by a vibrant blend of cultures deeply shaped her worldview. With a Cuban-American father and a Belizean mother, she was raised to value a wide range of musical influences. Life in Miami exposed her to everything from salsa and reggaetón to classic rock, helping form her eclectic musical palate. This multicultural background has been central to her voice as a journalist, allowing her to cover Latin music with both nuance and authenticity.

In addition to her work at Rolling Stone, Exposito has contributed to various esteemed publications, including the Los Angeles Times, Vogue, Pitchfork, and NPR Music. Her writing often explores the intersections of race, identity, and music, providing nuanced perspectives on the Latin music scene. Through her reporting, she has highlighted the contributions of Latin artists and shed light on the cultural significance of Latin music in the broader American musical landscape.

Exposito’s impact extends beyond her writing. She has served as a guest speaker at conferences such as NPR Music’s Turning the Tables and StopSlut: A Conference on Sexuality, Bullying, and Rape. Her involvement in these platforms underscores her commitment to fostering inclusive conversations around music and culture. As a Cuban-Belizean writer and illustrator based in Los Angeles, Exposito continues to be a leading voice in Latin music journalism who is currently, shaping the narrative and ensuring that Latin artists receive the recognition they deserve from LA Times and beyond.