Jay Wheeler Named King of Carnaval Miami & More Uplifting Moments in Latin Music

From career milestones to new music releases to major announcements and those little important moments, Billboard editors highlight uplifting moments in Latin music. Here’s what happened in the Latin music world this week.

Rey del Carnaval

Jay Wheeler has been named the 2025 Rey del Carnaval de Miami (King of the Carnaval), joining past crownholders such as Celia Cruz, Gloria Estefan, Pitbull, Daddy Yankee, and Chayanne, to name a few. The Puerto Rican artist will also headline the popular Calle Ocho street festival held March 9 in Miami, Fla. “Joining the list of so many legendary artists who have represented Miami Carnaval as kings and queens is an indescribable privilege,” Jay Wheeler expressed during a press conference held Thursday (Feb. 6) at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “This is a special moment in my career and I am proud to represent our vibrant heritage as part of this incredible annual celebration of culture, music and community.” 

Gente De Zona’s 25th Anniversary 

Gente de Zona is turning 25 after kicking off its music career as a duo in 2000. To celebrate, Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcom Martínez have released a two-part single. Titled “Cositas Bonitas de eso Se Trata,” the artists reeled in four new Cuban artists to tell the story of a long-lasting and healthy relationship. “Cositas Bonitas” in collaboration with El Kamel and L Kimii is about dating and getting to know each other, while “Se Trata” in collaboration with Dany Ome and Kevincito El 13 is about commitment and building a future together. The former is a saucy reparto and the latter, has more pop elements laced with the Cuban-urban genre. According to a press release, both songs are part of the forthcoming Reparto by Gente de Zona album, and are the most romantic tracks on the project. 

Intimate Night with Arjona

In a very rare appearance, Ricardo Arjona celebrated his new album, Seco, with an intimate showcase in Miami, Fla. The exclusive event, held for select press and a small group of fans, took place Tuesday (Feb. 4) at the Adrienne Arsht Center, where Arjona performed songs from his new set, such as “Mujer,” and timeless hits including “Historia de un Taxi,” “Te Conozco,” and “Fuiste Tú.” In the midst of the presentation, the Guatemalan singer-songwriter shared life anecdotes, the album’s creative process, and even his dream of owning a bar in New York City. See a small recap of the evening below. 

Daddy Yankee’s Birthday

Daddy Yankee might be in a legal battle with his ex-wife Mireddys González, but he’s keeping positive in the midst of it all—at least that’s what he’s showing fans on social media. This week, the former reggaetón hitmaker celebrated his 48th birthday (Feb. 3) alongside family and friends in Puerto Rico. “The faith community surprised me by celebrating my birthday last night,” he said in an Instagram post. “Honestly, they caught me off guard and surprised me. What a gift from heaven! When you least expect it, God always finds a way to cheer you up and never lets you down. Thank you to all the pastors, evangelists and artists of the kingdom who volunteered for this surprise party. Also to my AYALA family, who never miss a dance. Blessings to all, we had an extremely good time.” Check out DY’s surprise party in the below videos and photos.

Related Images: