The Nash News is celebrating Hispanic Heritage month by rounding up five Hispanic country singers that everyone should listen to. Country music has often incorporated elements of Hispanic sounds and styles. Southwest country has even become a sub-genre all on its own. These artists, past and present, show how country music has been diversified.

1. Valerie Ponzio

Ponzio's first impact on the industry was by appearing on The Voice. As per her Spotify bio, Ponzio "has made it her mission to shatter every precedent set for Latin artists in the world of country music." The singer is from El Paso, Texas, and grew up listening to a diverse mix of music. Adam Levine once hailed her as, "the most well-rounded singer...that I think I've ever heard." Her songs "I Could Fall In Love," "Timeless," and "My America" display her talents in a beautiful way. Her latest release"Just A Bordertown" captures the essence of her artistry, as well as her stellar vocals.

2. Leah Turner

The California-born singer grew up with a love for Latin and country music. Her father was a rodeo star and her mother was a first-generation Mexican-American. It was Grammy award winner Kenny Loggins who found the young singer and told her to move to L.A. She released her debut single in 2013 titled "Take The Keys." Turner has also toured with Kenny Chesney, Jake Owen, and Rascal Flatts. "Country music has always had a love affair with the Hispanic culture. I'm just the product of a good old-fashioned country song and the American dream," says Turner on her website.

3. Rick Trevino

Trevino is considered a trailblazer in country music. The Texas native studied music at Texas A&M University while playing in local clubs and bars. His debut album arrived in 1993 and was titled Dos Mundos. The album introduced a new wave of Spanish country. Rick Trevino was his first English album and was later certified gold. Trevino stood his ground when he parted with Sony in the 90s due to artistic differences. He continued to release music that his fans adored, leading the way for future Hispanic country singers.

4. Johnny Rodriguez

Rodriguez began infusing country music and Latin sounds early on in his career. He grew up living in a four-room house just 90 miles from the Mexico border. After getting caught for barbecuing a goat with friends, it meant he would have a stint in jail. It was a Texas Ranger that told a promoter about Rodriguez's talents. His music career would end up including 15 top 10 singles, six being no. 1 hits. Since the 1970s, Rodriguez has been paving the way for a diverse country sound.

5. Frank Ray

Ray is one of the most exciting emerging artists in country music today. Many may know him from his big single "Country'd Look Good On You." After beginning his career as a police officer, Ray decided to embark on chasing his musical aspirations. His most recent release was his EP titled Getcha Some. Ray had previously appeare d in The Nash News' original series Songs I Grew Up On where he shared how important representation can be in country music.

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