You might have read about Gloria Estefan in our latest issue of Songlines, but if not then grab yourself a copy and turn to page 12.  Next Thursday evening will see her present the first in a seven part series which traces the roots of Latin music to the present day. Estefan will be exploring influences on the current Latin music scene from her birth-place, Cuba as well as Mexico, Brazil, Spain and Africa. From her recording studio in Miami she looks back on a career spanning four decades and interviews Latin stars such as Shakira whose song ‘Wherever, Whenever’, Estefan co-wrote.

This Thursday we can look forward to some Cuban rumba, a taste of the Miami music scene and Estefan’s own first international hit ‘Conga’.

Gloria Estefan’s Latin Beat will be on BBC Radio 2 on Thursday evenings beginning 3 November, 11pm-12am. For more information visit www.bbc.co.uk/radio2

Throw yourself back into the 80s with this video of Estefan’s ‘Conga’

Tags: bbc radio 2, gloria estefan, latin beat, latin music, shakira