Latin

16 Jul 2024

Los Ángeles Azules & Emilia Take the Lead on Latin Airplay With ‘Perdonarte Para Qué?’

It’s taken nearly 28 years for Los Ángeles Azules to score a No. 1 on Billboard’s Latin Airplay chart, but the group’s winning week finally arrives as “Perdonarte Para Qué?” — their collab with Emilia — vaults 15-1 in its fifth week on the chart (dated July 20).

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The Mexican cumbia, released May 23 via Promotodo/Virgin Music Latin, ascends to the summit on the overall Latin Airplay chart with 8.1 million audience impressions, up 69%, earned across U.S. reporting radio stations during the July 5-11 tracking week, according to Luminate. A pair of Univision stations lead the charge among all reporting stations for the most audience gains, starting with WOJO-FM in Chicago, while KLQB-FM in Austin comes in second.

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The new No. 1 unseats Grupo Firme’s “El Beneficio De La Duda,” which dips 1-4 despite a 1% gain in audience to 6.2 million.

With “Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?” both Los Ángeles Azules and Emilia score a career milestone on the overall Latin Airplay tally, checking into the penthouse for the first time.

Among their nine-career top 10s, Los Ángeles Azules managed a No. 3 best through “Nunca Es Suficiente,” featuring Natalia Lafourcade, in February 2019. Plus, the Mexicans achieved another top 10 in 2024: the No. 5 high “La Cumbia Triste,” their first partnership with Alejandro Fernández. (The group premiered on Latin Airplay in December 1996 with “Come Te Voy a Olvidar,” which peaked at No. 7 the following February.)

Emilia also celebrates her first champ on her second try, after the Argentinian pop artist reached a No. 26 high with “La_Original.mp3” alongside Tini, in April. With the new champ, Emilia becomes the first Argentinian woman to land atop Latin Airplay since Maria Becerra took the throne for one week with “Te Espero” with Prince Royce in June 2022. Since then, another Argentinian has seized the crown: Bizarrap, through two “Bzrp Music Sessions” — Vol. 52 with Quevedo and Vol. 53 with Shakira — in November 2022 and February 2023, respectively.

Beyond its Latin Airplay coronation, “Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?” gifts Los Ángeles Azules its fifth No. 1 on Regional Mexican Airplay where the song pushes 8-1 with the Greatest Gainer honors, awarded weekly to the song with the largest gain in audience impressions.

Plus, Emilia joins two other pop artists who have achieved their maiden No. 1 on the Mexican radio ranking in 2024: Shakira with her Grupo Frontera collab “(Entre Parentesis)” (May 18-dated list) and Becky G through “Por El Contrario,” her Leonardo Aguilar and Angela Aguilar team-up (March 9).

Thanks to its strong radio pull, “Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?” debuts at No. 35 on the airplay-digital sales- and streaming-blended Hot Latin Songs chart, for Emilia’s first chart appearance. Meanwhile, the siblings’ group secures its highest debut since “El Listón De Tu Pelo” in 1999 (No. 32 start, No. 4 high in 2000).

16 Jul 2024

Pitbull Will Headline the Halftime Show at 2024 WNBA All-Star Game 

Dale! Pitbull is confirmed to headline the halftime show at the 2024 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game, taking place Sat. July 20 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. 

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“We have an opportunity to use AT&T WNBA All-Star to showcase an incredible league and some of the greatest athletes in the world,” Mat Ishbia, owner of Phoenix Mercury and Phoenix Suns, said in a press statement. “It’s important everything we do, on and off the floor, is at the same level as the superstars who will be playing. Pitbull is one of the world’s most dynamic artists and I wanted a halftime performer who reflects the same excitement, passion and incredible fandom of the WNBA.”

Demonstrating his admiration and support for the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), the Cuban-American global star added: “I was raised by a woman, and a woman made me a man. It’s an honor to make history and perform at the WNBA All-Star Game. Here’s to all the powerful women of the WNBA. So buckle up and get ready to have a good time, Dale!”

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Fans can tune in at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday (July 20) via ABC. For ticketing information, click here.

In other Pitbull (real name: Armando Christian Pérez) news, Mr. Worldwide—who has earned various Billboard hits, including two No. 1’s on the Billboard Hot 100 and four No. 1’s on the Hot Latin Songs chart—will kick off his Party After Dark Tour in the fall. 

The artist, known for bangers such as “Give Me Everything” and “​​Echa Pa’lla (Manos Pa’rriba),” will visit 25 U.S. cities with special guest T-Pain and openers SiriusXM Globalization DJ’S. Lil Jon will also join the tour in select cities. 

16 Jul 2024

AdonYS Takes the Top Prize at Red Bull Batalla’s New York Regional Qualifier

The atmosphere at Brooklyn’s Mercury Store was electrifying on Saturday (July) thanks to a fierce rap competition. At Red Bull Batalla‘s regional qualifier, New York’s AdonYS emerged as the victor, spitting punchline after punchline alongside other MCs with an eye on the Red Bull Batalla USA National Final, to be held in Miami in October. For the first time, fans will be able to watch the New York regional battle tonight (July 16) at 7 p.m. ET.

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The event highlighted the exceptional talent gathered from across the country, with 16 aspiring Latin MCs — including 4ases, Eckonn, El Dømi, La Eminencia, Zkart, Kingkique and others — battling through incendiary rounds. Their exuberance and linguistic prowess confirmed the deep-rooted connection and evolving style of the Spanish freestyle community.

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“Every time I rap, I take you in waves/ You’re spoiled, you don’t know how to even rub a gun/ This is rap, tomorrow vacilón, this is hip-hop and also a sensation,” AdonYS spat in Spanish against Freites, a Venezuelan lyricist from Orlando, Florida, who the Dominican New Yorker eventually defeated. Both advanced to the national finals, along with Raiiden and Metricoh Flowster.

The battles were adjudicated by a panel of three judges: rappers El Dilema, Snow Qlq and Latin Grammy nominee J Noa, the latter of whom the audience got to see in action on the mic at the close of the Batalla night.

J Noa

J Noa

Nick Watkin / Red Bull Content Pool

Red Bull Batalla, now entering its sixth year in the United States, has grown throughout the Spanish-speaking world. The first Batalla (initially known as “Batalla de los Gallos”) was held in Puerto Rico in 2005, following the success of the Eminem-starring blockbuster 8 Mile. The event has established itself as one of the largest Spanish-speaking freestyle competitions in the world, resonating with the battle-rap community and receiving more than 8,000 applications annually from hopefuls around the world.

The 2023 World Final in Bogota captivated more than 12,000 attendees, underscoring the broad appeal of the event. Looking ahead, the excitement builds toward the 2024 World Final set for Madrid’s Wizink Center on November 30, which sold out within a week of ticket release.

With each passing year, Red Bull Batalla continues to establish itself as a cultural phenomenon, pushing the boundaries of freestyle rap and showcasing the talent that Spanish-speaking communities harbor.

Below, watch AdonYS win the regional title in New York, and more than a dozen rappers compete for the crown. The video will begin streaming at 7 p.m. ET.

The date for the Red Bull Batalla USA National Final in Miami in October to be announced soon.

16 Jul 2024

Deorro Signs With Peso Pluma’s Double P Records in Joint Deal With Prajin Parlay

Prajin Parlay Inc. and Double P Records announced on Tuesday (July 16) a joint deal with Mexican-American DJ and producer Deorro, who joins the imprints for management and label services effective immediately, Billboard has learned.

Led by George Prajin, Prajin Parlay Inc. is home to superstar Peso Pluma, Santa Fe Klan and Codigo FN, among other artists. Prajin is also a partner in Double P Records alongside Pluma, which they launched last year and is home to Jasiel Nuñez, Tito Double P, Dareyes de la Sierra and more.

“I’m very proud of the team we’re building and I’m very excited to be working with Prajin and to form part of the Double P family,” Deorro said in a statement.

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“I am a fan of electronic music and have always admired what Deorro has contributed to the culture,” added Pluma. “We are excited to welcome our first electronic artist to our family.”

“Deorro has made an incredible name for himself in the music industry. For years he’s been successfully bridging the gap between his Latin culture and electronic music, producing original songs, remixing hits and DJing all over the world, he is the full package. We are really excited to welcome him into our home here at Prajin Parlay Inc. and Double P and are looking forward to being part of his continued growth and success,” said George Prajin, CEO, Prajin Parlay Inc. and co-founder, Double P Records.

For more than a decade, the L.A.-born producer and DJ has become a staple in the dance space with his signature genre-blurring musical style. In 2014, he scored his first major crossover hit, titled “Five Hours,” which earned him his first entry on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart. Two years later, Deorro nabbed his first top 10 on Hot Latin Songs with “Bailar” featuring Pitbull and Elvis Crespo. Deorro is currently on tour throughout North America.

See the dates below:

  • July 14 – Las Vegas – Marquee Nightclub
  • July 19 – Las Vegas – Marquee Nightclub
  • July 20 – Costa Mesa, Calif. – Time Nightclub
  • July 28 – Las Vegas – Wet Republic
  • Aug. 9 – Rosarito, México – Baja Beach Fest
  • Aug. 11 – Las Vegas – Wet Republic
  • Aug. 30 – Quebec, QC – Marché Jean Talon
  • Aug. 30 – Bridgeview, Ill. – North Coast Music Festival
  • Sept. 12 – Las Vegas – Hakkasan Nightclub
  • Oct. 5 – San Antonio – Freeman Coliseum
  • Oct. 21 – Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Kemistry Nightclub
  • Nov. 8 – Orlando, Fla. – EDC Orlando

15 Jul 2024

Google Mexico Celebrates Juan Gabriel With Doodle for Billboard’s No. 1 Anniversary

For the first time in its history, Google dedicates its famous doodle to one of the greatest figures of Mexican music and his invaluable artistic legacy: Juan Gabriel.

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On Monday (July 15), the logo that appears on the search engine’s home page in Mexico honors the legendary composer and performer to remember that on this day in 1995, his song “El Palo” reached the top spot on Billboard‘s Hot Latin Songs chart.

“Today, our Google Doodle honors a legend, Juan Gabriel, ‘El Divo de Juárez’. One of the most important singer-songwriters in Latin America. His songs and his entire legacy continue to live on in Mexico and the world,” wrote Google México on its X account.

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According to information from Google Mexico, the doodle was created by Mexican illustrator Humberto Irigoyen, who spent four months working on it in order to gather many details about the artist’s life and work.

To the rhythm of his famous song “Noa, Noa”, Internet users can navigate the 2D illustration, which shows different stages and facets during a fruitful career spanning more than four decades, in which he became a true benchmark of Hispanic music in the world: from his youth on stage, his foray into television, his creative process when writing his songs, as well as his bright and colorful costumes that sealed part of his artistic personality.

The doodle also illustrates his historic 1990 performance at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico’s most important cultural venue, which was recorded and released as the live album Juan Gabriel en el Palacio de Bellas Artes. That recital made the artist the first Mexican popular music singer-songwriter to perform there with the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional.

Juan Gabriel, known internationally for classics such as “Querida” and “Amor Eterno”, died on August 28, 2016 at his home in Santa Monica, California, of natural causes, in the middle of a concert tour. He was 66 years old.

“El Palo” was part of his album El México Que Se Nos Fue, which won the 1995 Premio Lo Nuestro award for best regional Mexican album.

Inducted into the Billboard Hall of Fame in 1996, Juan Gabriel built a legacy as a multifaceted artist over more than four decades, recording songs in genres as diverse as rancheras, baladas, pop and boleros, songwriting and producing other artists.

Among his many accomplishments, El Divo de Juárez (his nickname) sold more than 150 million records, composed more than 1,800 songs, released 34 studio albums, was nominated six times for a Grammy, won three posthumous Latin Grammys and more than 20 of his hits reached the top 10 on the Billboard charts, including seven No. 1s on the Hot Latin Songs chart. His song “Yo No Sé Qué Me Pasó” opened the first edition of that chart in 1986 at No. 1.

Check out the doodle dedicated to Juanga below:

15 Jul 2024

Nathy Peluso Delivers Powerful NPR Tiny Desk Performance: Watch

In the midst of promoting her sophomore set GRASA, Nathy Peluso visited the NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C. for an intimate Tiny Desk performance. 

“We’re fulfilling another dream today with these wonderful people by my side,” Peluso, wearing an oversized black tee and rocking her long, straight hair, said. “Thank you everyone for coming. We’re going to start with a magical song that’s been with me since I wrote it. Enjoy, have fun!”

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The nearly 19-minute set kicked off with “Buenos Aires,” the 2020 R&B-tinged tune that ultimately put Peluso on the map and was nominated for a Latin Grammy. Joined by eight musicians and two vocalists, Peluso delivered a powerful performance that captured her hard-hitting rap bars and effortless vocals, all while sending messages of self-love and empowerment as heard in the following tracks “Aprender a Amar” and “Legendario.” 

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“My new album has gems from the heart, from deep within, from love, for you that I made with that desire to make you emotional,” she expressed. “In the end, that’s what it’s all about.”

One of those gems is “Envidia,” a song that she performed accompanied only by a piano, and that narrates the story of a woman who hustles, follows her dreams, and ignores all negative comments. It’s a song for those who know how to win in life.  Peluso then wrapped her set with the funk-jazzy “Remedio.” “Thank you, we feel blessed. May you be happy, listen to ‘Grasa,’ and long live music!” she signed off. 

Earlier this year, the Argentine-born, Spanish-raised singer-songwriter opened up to Billboard about her new album, which can easily be reflected in her Tiny Desk performance.

“There is a very important message in the album which is ‘Aprender a Amarse’ (learn to love yourself), which is something we all deserve, because at the end of the day, you have to be your best friend and best companion,” she noted. “For that, you have to be brave and face things that are very difficult. [I wanted to] shed a little light and energy so that people who maybe don’t find that strength in their daily lives, maybe they can put on some music on and feel encouraged. Because music has saved me many times.”

Watch Peluso’s “Tiny Desk” performance below:

15 Jul 2024

Billboard Launches Exclusive Pinterest Boards Celebrating the Best of Latin Music

Billboard is excited to partner with Pinterest to reveal an exclusive board featuring editorial content curated by Billboard’s editors. The boards, brought to you by Pinterest, aims to showcase the multifaceted nature of Latin music, highlighting both its traditional roots and the journey that has resulted in Latin music genres being among the most popular in the world. 

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Latin music is known for its ability to evoke emotion and capture the essence of its culture. From the passionate rhythms of salsa to the heartfelt ballads of bachata and the infectious beats of reggaetón, each genre tells a story of its own. 

The boards offer a comprehensive look at Billboard’s prominent role in supporting Latin music’s global explosion. Each sub-genre will have its own unique board, composed of Pins featuring content from Billboard’s archive. 

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Fans can look forward to original photography, behind-the-scenes video, and other content from events like Billboard Latin Music Week and Billboard Latin Women in Music. 

These exclusive editorial boards are more than just a showcase of music; they represent a celebration of identity, creativity, and the power of cultural expression. Pinterest’s visual discovery platform is perfect for this project, allowing users to explore, save, and share their favorite moments from Latin music culture effortlessly. 

“These boards provide a beautiful and vibrant snapshot of Latin music through history and today. We are so proud to highlight the rich versatility of Latin music and all its genres through Pinterest’s unique visual platform, which provides a completely different discovery experience. We’re eager to expand Latin music’s reach even more,” said Leila Cobo, Billboard’s Chief Content Officer for Latin content and Español. 

Billboard and Pinterest’s partnership not only brings visibility to Latin music but also fosters community engagement. Users on Pinterest can immerse themselves in the distinct styles and personalities of each subgenre, as well as discover emerging talents who are redefining the boundaries of Latin music.

“We are thrilled to partner with a world-renowned publication like Billboard to bring Pinterest users an exclusive look into the distinct styles and personalities of Latin music genres, as well as offering them the opportunity to discover emerging talents,” said Nadine Zylstra, Pinterest’s Global Head of Programming and Originals. 

“Pinterest is a platform for inspiring content, and it’s so special that Billboard has opened their archives so that half a billion users on Pinterest can discover their iconic collection of covers, red carpet looks, photoshoots and events photography.”

As users explore these boards, they are invited to dive into the narratives behind the music, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Latin music diaspora and its enduring impact on the global stage. Get ready to experience Latin music like never before.

14 Jul 2024

Shakira Shines During Halftime Show at 2024 Copa America Final Match

Shakira officially made her Copa America debut during the final match’s halftime show on Sunday (July 14). In the midst of the Argentina vs. Colombia game, the Colombian global star took the Hard Rock Stadium by storm with a medley of old and new hits.

Presented by Verizon, the superstar, dressed in a metallic silver skirt and halter top, kicked off the performance singing “Hips Don’t Lie.”

“Te Quiero, Colombia!” (I love you, Colombia), she chanted in the middle of the song. Accompanied by a group of dancers—female and robots alike—she continued with “Te Felicito,” “TQG,” and “Puntería,” where she also flaunted her flawless dancing skills.

On TV, the soccer field showcased large 3D wolves and floating gems, all representing her new era.

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Shak has taken center stage at many renowned sports events including the World Cup, Davis Cup, NBA All-Star, and Super Bowl, but this marks her first performance at the oldest international soccer tournament.

“Shakira is an extraordinary South American star who has dazzled the entire world,” Alejandro Domínguez, president of CONMEBOL, previously said in a statement. “Her songs are sung and danced to in every corner of the planet, turning her art into a global phenomenon that crosses borders and is enjoyed by millions of people. We are sure that her performance at the Copa América USA 2024 will enhance the message of healthy passion and unity through sport.”

Ahead of her performance, fellow colleague Karol G performed Colombian’s national anthem, and Abel Pintos performed Argentina’s national anthem. Feid and Maluma were also amongst the other music stars present at the match.

In the United States, Copa América 2024 is broadcast in Spanish on Univision, TUND, and UniMás, and the match is available on FuboTV, DirecTV Stream and TUND’s streaming platforms. Plus, the halftime show can be seen on FOX, Fubo Sports, Fox Sports App, FOXsports.com, TyC Sports Internacional, and FOX Sports 1.

14 Jul 2024

Karol G & Abel Pintos Sing National Anthems at 2024 Copa América Final Match

After a more than one-hour-long delay due to a mass of non-ticket holders forcing themselves into the stadium on Sunday (July 14), the 2024 Copa America final match — where Argentina and Colombia face each other on the field for the championship trophy — officially began at 9:15 p.m. ET.

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As tradition holds, the national anthems of each country were performed ahead of the big game: Karol G helmed Colombia’s national anthem, and Abel Pintos sang Argentina’s national anthem. Videos of the two acts rehearsing at the stadium circulated on social media early Sunday, confirming both of their performances.

Pintos — dressed in a royal blue suit — performed the anthem backed by a passionate and emotional team who sang along. Meanwhile, Karol rocked the signature Colombian jersey and a black leather skirt with knee-high boots as she was accompanied by a roaring crowd.

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Pintos and Karol were not the only music stars present at the soccer tournament. Maluma, Feid, Ryan Castr and Blessd, were also spotted at the stands in support of their national team.

Earlier this month, it was confirmed that Shakira will perform during the halftime show, marking the first time that the Colombian hitmaker will perform at the oldest international soccer tournament. “Get ready to feel the greatness in a show that will make the continent vibrate!” read the official announcement.

On game night, the Colombian global star expressed in her Instagram story, “See you tonight at the Copa America final. I’m nervous!”

Both the Colombian and Argentine national teams have proven to be the best in the field since the soccer tournament began on June 20, eliminating other strong countries such as Brazil, Uruguay and Venezuela. Now, renowned athletes such as Colombia’s James Rodriguez and Argentina’s Lionel Messi are battling out on the field for the 2024 championship title.

Up to now, Argentina has won 15 Copa titles, while Colombia nabbed one in 2001.

14 Jul 2024

2024 Copa América Final: Karol G Will Sing Colombia’s National Anthem

Karol G is set to sing Colombia’s national anthem at the 2024 Copa América final tonight (Sunday, June 14), and Abel Pintos will sing for Argentina. Their performances will be ahead of Shakira‘s anticipated halftime show at the Argentina-Colombia match in Miami, Florida.

Though Karol G’s appearance was apparently meant to be a surprise, the Colombian star confirmed the news herself in a quick chat with Noticias RCN on Sunday afternoon at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, where she was seated next to Feid.

A few hours before the event’s start time, videos of Karol rehearsing at the stadium on Sunday had begin to circulate across social media — so the cat was out of the bag.

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Shakira’s halftime show will mark her first time performing at the oldest national soccer tournament. She’s expected to appear just after the first half of the game.

The 2024 Copa América final is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT.

In the United States, Copa América 2024 will broadcast in Spanish on Univision, TUND, and UniMás, and the match will be available on FuboTV, DirecTV Stream and TUND’s streaming platforms. Plus, the halftime show will be shown on FOX, Fubo Sports, Fox Sports App, FOXsports.com, TyC Sports Internacional, and FOX Sports 1. Find out more details about how to watch here.

Watch the interview with Karol G below, plus a few different teaser clips of her singing at rehearsal at the Hard Rock Stadium. Plus, don’t forget to check out Billboard‘s ultimate playlist of songs to enjoy in celebration of the final match on Sunday.