Camila Cabello transformed from Fifth Harmony member to global pop phenomenon with remarkable speed and undeniable talent. Born in Cuba and raised in Miami, the singer-songwriter has crafted a distinctive sound that blends Latin influences with contemporary pop sensibilities and emotional vulnerability. Since launching her solo career in 2017, Cabello has sold over 45.5 million albums and singles in the United States alone, becoming the first Hispanic female artist to earn a diamond-certified single with “Havana.” Her vocal range, authentic storytelling, and willingness to experiment across genres have produced chart-topping collaborations and deeply personal solo work that resonates with millions worldwide. From breakthrough singles that dominated 2018 to her experimental hyperpop era beginning in 2024, Cabello continues evolving while maintaining the emotional honesty that defines her artistry. These twenty tracks showcase her journey from ambitious newcomer to established hitmaker who shapes contemporary pop music’s sound and direction.
Havana (feat. Young Thug)
This Latin-infused masterpiece became the best-selling digital single of 2018 worldwide according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, with equivalent sales of 19 million units globally. Released in September 2017 as the lead single from her debut album Camila, the track topped charts in 23 countries and spent one week at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Frank Dukes with co-production from Pharrell Williams, the song’s piano riff and infectious “Havana-na-na” hook create instantly recognizable foundation while Cabello’s sultry vocals transport listeners to her Cuban roots. Young Thug’s distinctive verse adds contemporary hip-hop edge without overwhelming the Latin rhythms that drive the arrangement. The music video’s narrative storytelling became a cultural moment, establishing Cabello as legitimate solo star separate from her girl group past. This earned diamond certification from the RIAA and Grammy nominations for Best Pop Solo Performance and Record of the Year, cementing its status as one of the defining pop songs of the late 2010s.
Señorita (with Shawn Mendes)
Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes created undeniable chemistry on this 2019 collaboration that became the third best-selling single of 2019 worldwide with combined sales and track-equivalent streams of 16.1 million units. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for one week and dominated the UK Singles Chart for six consecutive weeks, showcasing the duo’s vocal interplay and simmering romantic tension. Produced by Benny Blanco, Cashmere Cat, and others, the Latin-pop arrangement features sensual guitar work and percussion that builds throughout the track’s three-minute runtime. The music video amplified the song’s appeal by featuring Cabello and Mendes in steamy choreography that sparked widespread speculation about their real-life relationship, which they later confirmed. This reached number one in 45 countries and earned Grammy nominations for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, demonstrating how authentic chemistry between collaborators can elevate already strong songwriting into cultural phenomenon.
Never Be the Same
From her debut album Camila, this Frank Dukes-produced power ballad showcases Cabello’s ability to convey addiction metaphors through romantic obsession. Released in December 2017, the track peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached the top ten in multiple countries including the UK where it accumulated nearly 848,000 chart sales. The production blends electronic elements with organic instrumentation, creating atmospheric soundscape that supports Cabello’s vocal performance which effortlessly navigates from whispered verses to powerful chorus declarations. The song’s structure builds tension masterfully, with each section adding layers until the bridge explodes into full orchestration. Lyrically, Cabello draws parallels between love and substance addiction—”just like nicotine, heroin, morphine”—in ways that feel genuinely confessional rather than exploitative. The remix featuring Kane Brown demonstrated the song’s versatility, translating effectively across pop and country formats while maintaining its emotional core.
Bad Things (with Machine Gun Kelly)
This 2016 collaboration marked Cabello’s first top-five hit on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number four while she was still technically part of Fifth Harmony. The song interpolates Fastball’s “Out of My Head” while creating something entirely new—a dark pop-rock track about embracing forbidden romance and questionable decisions. Machine Gun Kelly’s rap verses provide masculine perspective while Cabello’s vocals on the chorus deliver the song’s memorable hook with conviction that sells the narrative. Produced by The Futuristics, the track demonstrated Cabello’s star potential before her official solo career began, essentially serving as proof she could carry major hits independently. The chemistry between Cabello and Kelly translated to live performances where their contrasting styles created dynamic tension. This spent 13 weeks in the top ten and received widespread radio play across multiple formats, establishing Cabello as commercially viable solo artist before she’d even released her first album.
My Oh My (feat. DaBaby)
From her second album Romance, this track became one of Cabello’s biggest hits, peaking at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number one on the US Mainstream Top 40 chart. Released in January 2020 with a remix featuring DaBaby that added hip-hop edge to the already energetic production, the song showcases Cabello’s ability to create infectious pop with personality. Produced by Louis Bell and Frank Dukes, the arrangement features prominent horns, hand claps, and rhythmic elements that create irresistible danceability. The lyrics tell story of attraction to someone your friends warned you about—universal experience delivered with knowing humor rather than regret. The production’s layered percussion and bass line create groove that translates exceptionally well through quality headphones, revealing subtle details that reward attentive listening. This demonstrated Cabello could deliver radio-friendly bangers while maintaining the lyrical personality that distinguishes her from generic pop.
Liar
One of two lead singles from Romance released simultaneously in September 2019, “Liar” showcases Cabello’s playful side while exploring themes of denial about romantic feelings. The song peaked at number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 but achieved greater success internationally, demonstrating how certain tracks resonate differently across markets. The production by Andrew Watt and Jon Bellion incorporates Latin percussion, acoustic guitar, and building dynamics that mirror the lyrical journey from denial to confession. Cabello’s vocal performance conveys the internal conflict convincingly—she’s literally arguing with herself throughout the verses before the chorus breaks through her defenses. The music video’s choreography and visual storytelling added dimension to the song’s narrative, showing Cabello’s physical commitment to performance. The track’s structure rewards repeated listens as you catch additional production details and lyrical nuances that deepen the emotional resonance.
Shameless
Released alongside “Liar” as dual lead singles from Romance, “Shameless” reveals Cabello’s more vulnerable and emotionally raw side. The ballad peaked at number 37 on the UK Singles Chart and showcased her vocal power across a dynamic arrangement that builds from intimate verses to soaring chorus. Co-written with Alexandra Tamposi, Andrew Watt, and Jon Bellion, the song explores themes of complete emotional exposure in relationships—being “shameless” about one’s feelings despite potential consequences. The production features prominent piano, building strings, and percussion that creates cinematic atmosphere supporting the confessional lyrics. Cabello’s vocal delivery conveys desperation and need without melodrama, finding the authentic emotional core that makes vulnerability relatable rather than performative. This track demonstrated Cabello’s range as artist capable of delivering both upbeat pop and emotionally weighty ballads with equal conviction, establishing Romance as multifaceted album rather than collection of similar-sounding songs.
Bam Bam (feat. Ed Sheeran)
From her third album Familia, this collaboration with Ed Sheeran became one of Cabello’s biggest post-pandemic hits, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at number five on the Billboard Global 200. Released in March 2022, the song addresses moving on from heartbreak with maturity and self-awareness that marks artistic growth. The production blends Latin-pop elements with contemporary radio-ready polish, featuring acoustic guitar work that complements both artists’ strengths. Sheeran’s verse provides complementary perspective to Cabello’s narrative about accepting that sometimes relationships end despite best efforts. The duo performed this together for the first time at the Concert For Ukraine benefit, demonstrating the song’s emotional resonance extends beyond romantic context. This earned Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and accumulated over 25 weeks on the UK Singles Chart, proving Cabello’s ability to create enduring hits years into her career.
Don’t Go Yet
The lead single from Familia arrived in July 2021 with infectious Latin-pop energy that reminded listeners of “Havana’s” successful formula while establishing distinct identity. The song peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Global 200 and reached number 20 on the UK Singles Chart, demonstrating Cabello’s continued commercial viability. Produced by Scott Harris and Ricky Reed, the track features prominent brass, percussion, and Cuban-influenced rhythms that create irresistible danceability. The lyrics capture the moment when you’re enjoying someone’s company so much you don’t want the night to end—universal feeling delivered with specificity and charm. The music video’s choreography showcased Cabello’s improved dance skills and commitment to visual storytelling that enhances the song’s narrative. This track announced Cabello was ready to return after the pandemic-induced pause with material that honored her roots while pushing her sound forward.
Crying in the Club
Cabello’s debut solo single arrived in May 2017 with massive expectations as her first post-Fifth Harmony release. Written by Sia and featuring an ingenious interpolation of Christina Aguilera’s “Genie in a Bottle,” the track reached number 47 on the Billboard Hot 100 and accumulated 845,000 chart sales in the UK. The production by Benny Blanco and Happy Perez creates uplifting dance-pop that contrasts with the vulnerable lyrics about finding solace and strength on the dancefloor. Cabello’s vocal performance channels both vulnerability and power, proving she possessed the range to carry solo material convincingly. While not matching the commercial success of subsequent singles, this established Cabello’s solo identity and demonstrated her willingness to address emotional complexity in accessible pop frameworks. The song’s message about finding healing through movement and music resonated with audiences navigating their own difficult emotions.
I Luv It (feat. Playboi Carti)
Cabello’s bold pivot into hyperpop arrived in March 2024 with this Playboi Carti collaboration that divided critics while showcasing her willingness to take risks. Released through Interscope Records and serving as lead single for her fourth album C,XOXO, the track peaked at number 31 on the UK Singles Chart and number 28 on the UK download chart. The production embraces maximalist electronic elements, distorted vocals, and aggressive energy that dramatically differs from her established sound. Playboi Carti’s verse adds experimental edge while Cabello’s vocals navigate the chaotic production with surprising control. Rolling Stone described this as the beginning of her “hyperpop era,” acknowledging the significant departure from her Latin-pop roots. The song demonstrates artistic bravery—risking commercial success to explore new sonic territory that genuinely interests her. Whether this direction resonates with longtime fans or attracts new audiences, the track represents Cabello’s refusal to stagnate creatively.
Consequences
This orchestral ballad from Camila showcases Cabello’s ability to deliver emotionally devastating material with restraint and maturity. Released as the album’s fourth single in October 2018, the track features sweeping string arrangements and minimal production that places Cabello’s vocal front and center. The lyrics address the aftermath of failed relationship with brutal honesty—acknowledging her role in the breakdown while processing the pain. The song’s structure builds gradually, adding orchestral elements that mirror the emotional escalation without overwhelming the intimacy. An orchestra version was later released that fully embraced the cinematic potential of the composition, creating version that works equally well in different listening environments. This track demonstrated Cabello’s artistic ambitions extended beyond radio singles to more substantial album material that rewards patient listening and reveals depth across repeated plays.
Real Friends
From Camila, this introspective track addresses the difficulty of maintaining genuine connections amid fame and success. Released as a promotional single in December 2017, the song reached number six on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart. A remix featuring Swae Lee was released in August 2018, demonstrating the song’s versatility across collaborators. The production features relatively sparse instrumentation compared to her singles, creating intimate atmosphere that supports the confessional lyrics. Cabello’s vocal delivery conveys loneliness and longing for authentic connection in ways that transcend celebrity context—anyone who’s questioned their relationships’ authenticity will relate. The song’s bridge builds emotional intensity before resolving back to the chorus’ resigned acceptance. This track showcases Cabello’s songwriting maturity and willingness to address difficult personal subjects even when they don’t fit typical radio formats.
Living Proof
This dance-pop track from Romance arrived as a promotional single in November 2019, demonstrating Cabello’s ability to create uplifting material addressing self-love and confidence. The production features pulsing electronic elements, building percussion, and anthemic chorus designed for maximum impact. The lyrics frame romantic love as validation of self-worth—”you’re the living proof my mother was right when she said the best things are felt, not seen”—in ways that feel earned rather than trite. Cabello’s vocal performance conveys genuine joy and celebration, selling the optimism without cynicism. The song’s structure builds momentum throughout, creating satisfying crescendo in the final chorus. While not released as major single, “Living Proof” became fan favorite and demonstrates the album depth beyond obvious commercial tracks. The production quality rewards listening on quality earbuds where subtle details enhance the overall impact.
First Man
This touching tribute to Cabello’s father from Romance showcases her ability to write deeply personal material that resonates universally. Released as the album’s fifth single in June 2020, the ballad addresses the unique relationship between fathers and daughters, specifically the moment when fathers “give away” their daughters at weddings. The production remains relatively simple—piano, strings, and Cabello’s emotional vocal performance—allowing the lyrics to land with full impact. She performed this live at her father’s actual wedding, creating genuinely moving moment that viral videos captured. The song’s specificity about her father’s sacrifices and their relationship creates authenticity that elevates it beyond generic wedding ballads. This demonstrated Cabello’s growing confidence as songwriter willing to mine personal experiences for material that connects emotionally without relying on universal romantic themes that dominate pop music.
I Know What You Did Last Summer (with Shawn Mendes)
Before “Señorita,” Cabello and Mendes collaborated on this November 2015 release while she was still in Fifth Harmony. The song peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and introduced the vocal chemistry that would later explode on their reunion collaboration. The production by Benny Blanco and The Monsters & Strangerz creates moody atmosphere that supports the lyrics about betrayal and broken trust. Both artists were relatively early in their careers, making the vocal maturity they demonstrate even more impressive. The song established Cabello as legitimate solo presence before her official departure from Fifth Harmony, proving she could hold her own alongside established artists. This collaboration planted seeds for future partnership while demonstrating both artists’ commercial viability in duet format that would later yield one of the biggest hits of 2019.
Easy
From Romance, this mid-tempo track addresses the disconnect between surface-level happiness and underlying relationship dysfunction. Released as a promotional single in October 2019, the song reached number 57 on the UK Singles Chart and number ten on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart. The production by Louis Bell and Frank Dukes features understated electronic elements and organic instrumentation that creates intimate atmosphere. Cabello’s vocal performance conveys the complicated emotions of staying in relationship that looks perfect externally while feeling hollow internally. The lyrics’ specificity—mentioning late-night conversations that never reach depth, performative happiness for others—resonates with anyone who’s maintained relationships past their expiration date. The song’s restraint in production and performance creates sophisticated pop that trusts listeners to appreciate subtlety rather than demanding attention through volume and aggression.
She Loves Control
This Camila album track showcases Cabello’s ability to create infectious dance-pop with attitude and personality. While not released as major single in most markets, it reached number one on the New Zealand Heatseeker Singles Chart, demonstrating regional appeal. The production features Latin-influenced percussion, synth elements, and building energy that creates club-ready atmosphere. The lyrics celebrate female empowerment and autonomy—”she loves control, she wants it her way”—in ways that feel genuinely celebratory rather than pandering. Cabello’s vocal delivery exudes confidence and playfulness, selling the narrative convincingly. The song’s structure maintains energy throughout without becoming monotonous, incorporating enough variation to reward active listening. This track demonstrates album depth beyond obvious singles, rewarding fans who explore full-length projects rather than just consuming hits.
Psychofreak (feat. WILLOW)
From Familia, this collaboration with WILLOW addresses mental health struggles and the pressure of constant scrutiny. Released in April 2022, the track peaked at number 52 on the UK Singles Chart and showcased both artists’ willingness to address difficult subjects authentically. The production incorporates alternative rock influences unusual for Cabello’s typical sound, with prominent guitars and aggressive percussion creating emotional intensity. Both artists deliver vulnerable performances that convey genuine struggle rather than performing pain for commercial purposes. The lyrics address anxiety, depression, and the specific challenges of maintaining mental health while navigating public life. This collaboration demonstrated Cabello’s artistic growth and willingness to create material that prioritizes authenticity over commercial considerations, connecting with listeners facing similar struggles.
He Knows (feat. Lil Nas X)
From C,XOXO, this May 2024 single featuring Lil Nas X explores themes of attraction and desire with playful energy. The song peaked at number 63 on the UK Singles Chart and demonstrated Cabello’s ability to create chemistry with diverse collaborators. The production embraces contemporary pop trends while maintaining distinct identity through Cabello’s vocal personality. Lil Nas X’s verse adds complementary perspective while maintaining cohesive sonic identity throughout. The track represents Cabello’s experimental phase while remaining accessible enough to achieve chart success. The collaboration showcases both artists’ willingness to push boundaries while maintaining commercial viability—balancing artistic ambition with audience expectations effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Camila Cabello’s biggest hit song?
“Havana” featuring Young Thug stands as Camila Cabello’s biggest and most successful song commercially and culturally. Released in September 2017, it became the best-selling digital single of 2018 worldwide according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry with equivalent sales of 19 million units globally. The track topped charts in 23 countries including spending one week at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving diamond certification from the RIAA, making Cabello the first Hispanic female artist to earn this distinction. The song’s Latin-influenced production featuring piano, percussion, and sultry vocals helped establish Cabello’s solo identity separate from Fifth Harmony while celebrating her Cuban heritage authentically.
How many albums has Camila Cabello released?
Camila Cabello has released four studio albums: Camila (2018), Romance (2019), Familia (2022), and C,XOXO (2024). Her debut Camila peaked atop the Billboard 200 and spawned massive hits including “Havana” and “Never Be the Same.” Romance reached number three on the Billboard 200 and contained the global smash “Señorita” with Shawn Mendes alongside singles “Liar” and “Shameless.” Familia marked her return after the pandemic and featured collaborations with Ed Sheeran on “Bam Bam” and WILLOW on “Psychofreak.” Her fourth album C,XOXO represents a dramatic sonic shift toward hyperpop and experimental sounds with singles like “I Luv It” featuring Playboi Carti. She also released the Cinderella soundtrack album in 2021 for the film in which she starred.
What is Camila Cabello’s vocal range?
Camila Cabello possesses a soprano vocal range that spans approximately three octaves, demonstrating impressive control and versatility across her discography. Her voice features a distinctive warm, slightly raspy quality in her mid-range that becomes particularly evident on ballads like “Consequences” and “Never Be the Same.” She can deliver powerful belted notes in her upper register while also showcasing delicate falsetto work on tracks like “First Man.” Her Cuban-American background influences her vocal styling, particularly evident in how she incorporates Spanish pronunciation and Latin rhythmic phrasing even in English-language songs. Critics have praised her ability to convey emotional vulnerability through subtle vocal techniques rather than relying solely on technical prowess, making her performances feel authentic and relatable.
Did Camila Cabello date Shawn Mendes?
Yes, Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes dated publicly from July 2019 to November 2021. Their relationship began shortly after releasing their massive collaboration “Señorita” in June 2019, which sparked widespread speculation due to their chemistry in the music video and live performances. The couple confirmed their romance through social media posts and public appearances, becoming one of pop music’s highest-profile couples. They announced their breakup in November 2021 through a joint statement on social media, emphasizing they remained friends despite ending their romantic relationship. Their relationship provided context for much of the material on Cabello’s Romance album and influenced public perception of “Señorita,” though both artists maintained the song was written before they officially began dating.
What nationality is Camila Cabello?
Camila Cabello was born Karla Camila Cabello Estrabao on March 3, 1997, in Cojímar, Cuba, to a Cuban mother and Mexican father. She holds dual citizenship as a Cuban-American, having moved to the United States at age five, first to Mexico City and then settling in Miami, Florida. Her bicultural background significantly influences her music, particularly evident in songs like “Havana” that celebrate her Cuban heritage through Latin rhythms, Spanish phrases, and references to her birthplace. She became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2008 and has spoken publicly about being a DREAMer and advocating for immigration reform. Her albums Camila and Familia especially showcase her pride in her Latin roots through musical choices, Spanish-language lyrics, and collaborations with Latin artists, making her an important voice for Hispanic representation in mainstream American pop music.