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It’s a stormy night in Miami on Saturday (Oct. 12), but the atmosphere inside Factory Town was sweltering as the Red Bull Batalla USA National Final 2024 touched down. This celebrated annual event has grown to be a cultural phenomenon, bringing together 16 of the illest, most clever improvisational wordsmiths in the country — all hailing from different Latin American backgrounds — to compete for the best lyrical face-off.
Now in its final round to determine this year’s national winner, it was up to Freites, originally from Venezuela, and Venezuelan-Dominican rapper AdonysX to take the trophy. With the crowd growing thicker, and the atmosphere turning electric, each lyricist ratcheted up the intensity, spitting bars that echoed through the charged air. The spectators, gripped by each piercing line and sharp retort, were witnesses to an epic cultural clash that transcended just words.
Ultimately, AdonysX claimed the title of the best Spanish-language freestyler in the nation. The stage also featured prominent competitors including last year’s National Final runner-up, Zazowan, Miami’s Colombian sensation Nico B, seasoned Mexican rapper Jordi, New York City’s regional champion AdonYS (distinct from the national winner AdonysX), and more
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“The atmosphere of a battle can vary; it might be charged with energy or more [subdued], but either way, it remains intense,” says AdonysX, speaking a few weeks after winning the regional event in his native New York. “At every moment, the energy can [fluctuate], but overall, the environment demands a lot from you.”
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The evening was also highlighted by a performance from Akapellah, one of the best Spanish-language rappers of all time, who additionally took a seat at the judges’ table for the event alongside Reverse, Dilema, and Snow QLQ.
“The pioneer that started it all was Red Bull Batalla. It has been a launching pad for many, including myself,” Akapellah tells Billboard Español, who assumed the role of judge this year for the USA National Final. “I believe that 80% of the biggest artists in Latin hip-hop and Spanish-speaking music, we all come from battling, we all grew up watching Red Bull Batallas. It was our influence, it was our bridge to jump into the world of the music industry.”
Originally known as Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos, the stateside competition was established in 2019, though the entire franchise was created in 2005, following the success of the Eminem-starring blockbuster, 8 Mile. It’s now approaching its 17th installment, which will take place in Madrid, Spain on November 30. Every year, the international competition takes place in a different Spanish-speaking country.
“We all grew up watching those battles. For me, it’s incredible that today I am a judge after when I was a kid, the first time I tried to do it compete I was underage. I didn’t have a passport and they let me participate in the regional competition in my city at that time, but just for fun,” says the Venezuelan rap titan, who mentions he won but wasn’t able to advance to the next level due to visa constraints.
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Over the past three years, the Red Bull Batalla U.S. championship trophy has been claimed by residents of the state with notable wins from Oner and last year’s champion Reverse, who, after his victory, became a U.S. double champion — like Puerto Rican MC, Yartzi, who won in 2019 and 2020.
“The first time there was a Red Bull Batalla in the USA, it was something historic. It was the last location to be added to the battle circuit. And the inclusion of the United States, giving the opportunity to all immigrants and all Latinos in the United States, was really significant,” Yartzi tells Billboard Español. “Every year more talents, more personalities, and more MCs are added. Each year the competition becomes more intense in terms of retaining that title.”
Outside of the freestyle scene, Yartzi today leverages his highly touted lyrical skills to compose for some of the biggest names in Latin music. He’s collaborated with producers such as Jorge Miliano, DJ Blass and Major Lazer as well as reggaetón superstars like Anuel AA, Wisin y Yandel, Nicky Jam, Ozuna, Lunay, Tainy and more.
As all national finalists from the Americas and Spain turn their focus to the global stage, Akapellah also offers a reminder: “Freestyle has developed its own siginficant identity and somewhat diverged from traditional hip-hop, which is a delicate topic. There are incredibly talented artists who would benefit immensely from a broader vocabulary to enrich their rhymes,” he offers, citing the ingestion of more literature.
Echoing the broader benefits of participating in Red Bull Batalla, AdonYS emphasizing its role beyond merely providing a stage. “It gives you a lot of connections, countless opportunities and doors that can open to a wider world of music and the industry,” he says. “The idea is to continue helping the guys that are coming up in any way we can. The idea is that we all come up together so freestyle continues to grow.”
“As the saying goes, and not to sound cliché, but it truly gives you wings because it exposes your talent to the world in a way you might not achieve on your own,” says Yartzi, reflecting on the transformative power of the platform. “As an independent artist, it helps to propel you and captures the global spotlight. Participating as a rapper from Puerto Rico also drew attention from reggaeton artists, my compatriots, leading to many relationships formed through this achievement.”
Peso Pluma is calling off his upcoming concerts in Florida amid the devastation of Hurricane Milton. On Friday (Oct. 11), the Mexican superstar announced that he is canceling shows at Tampa’s Amalie Arena (Oct. 16) and Miami’s Kaseya Center (Oct. 17). Fans who purchased tickets through Ticketmaster will automatically be refunded. Both dates were part […]
This article was created in partnership with Walmart.
The 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week is returning from Oct. 14 to 18 at the Fillmore Miami Beach in Miami with a star-studded lineup of more than 70 artists. Over the past 35 years, Latin Music Week has become the one, steady foundation of Latin music in this country, becoming the single most important — and biggest — gathering of Latin artists and industry executives in the world. This year, Walmart is joining the celebration of Hispanic heritage.
Each year, fans of the many genres of Latin music look to Billboard for exclusive interviews and live experiences with their favorite artists, ranging from emerging acts to some of the biggest superstars in the world. Some of these acts will be going backstage with Billboard, engaging in conversations about their art, culture and more in the Backstage Video Lounge. This year, the lounge will be reimagined, featuring pieces from The Nuevolution Project. Get a sneak peek at the pieces that will be featured across Billboard with your favorite stars, created in collaboration with visionary creatives shaping culture.
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Wish Me Luck, a Hispanic-led fashion brand from LA, captures the spirit of Dreamers: those who pursue their aspirations while honoring their heritage. Their clothing combines classic casual styles with bold, eye-catching graphics to create pieces you can wear anywhere — and Billboard’s hosts will be wearing them as they sit down with the stars. Add their Workwear Style Jacket and Dreamer’s Win Graphic Tee Shirt to your everyday rotation to add meaningful flair to your wardrobe.
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Puerto Rican-American artist, ceramicist, social activist, poet, and educator Roberto Lugo’s contributions to The Nuevolution Project range from home decor to clothing. Lugo’s lively, illustrated patterns are an extension of his art, acknowledging the realities faced by marginalized communities while also celebrating their beauty and creativity. His candles are inspired by the ones that are traditional to Hispanic culture – with his own special twist. Mix and match the pieces in your home to bring your culture to life.
Need a pick-me-up? Walmart has you covered. Robert Lugo’s designs bring Hispanic pride to your kitchen, elevating your morning coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Choose between three bold patterns to bring the comfort of culture to your cup.
Stay tuned for more from Billboard Latin Music Week and check out more pieces from The Nuevolution Project, available only at Walmart.
Shakira‘s “Soltera” music video is all about a carefree night out with friends — and for the Colombian superstar, that includes fellow singers like Anitta and Danna. The video, which premiered on Friday (Oct. 11), starts off with Shakira waking up in a room where she’s surrounded by pals passed out asleep alongside her on […]
New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors. Check out this week’s picks below.
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Xavi, Next (Interscope Records)
Unlike the typical landscape of Latin music in 2024, Xavi’s debut album, Next, distinguishes itself through his singular vocal prowess and a selective ensemble of guest features that include Tony Aguirre, Los Dareyes de la Sierra, and his brother and co-songwriter, Fabio Capri. With 15 tracks that blend fresh revelations and familiar hits, this album sees the Phoenix, Arizona, native expanding his creative wanderlust and widespread appeal.
Next captivates with songwriting that paints scenes of young love caught in the throes of rebellious fervor and wholesome charm. His vocal delivery, both haunting and resolute, is supported by an eclectic mix of traditional instruments like the requinto and tololoche, enriched further by occasional brass accents. New song “La Luna X Mi” surprises and delights, offering the lustrous tones of a 12-string guitar. “Filosofía” boasts lush melodies and playful reflections on love. Meanwhile, ongoing hits like “Corazón de Piedra,” “La Diabla” and “La Víctima” invigorate the overall momentum, intertwining with the newer tracks to create a robust musical narrative.
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A particularly compelling collaboration is “Tu Casi Algo,” where Xavi and Fabio Capri exchange verses on the blossoming nuances of romance. With Next, the 20-year-old artist not only continues to cement his status as a breakthrough artist but also challenges the conventions of Latin music, presenting a debut that will surely resonate widely and affect deeply. — ISABELA RAYGOZA
Becky G, Encuentros (Kemosabe Records/RCA Records)
Becky G continues to trace her Mexican roots in Encuentros, a gorgeous 16-track set powered by prickly requintos, wailing trombones and equally emotional lyrics that touch on the sadness and grief that come with heartbreak and, ultimately, joy from a healed heart. The 27-year-old Mexican American artist sings with pathos, the way música mexicana greats often do, as she brings to life stories through songs with the help of friends like Tito Double P, Oscar Maydon, Oscar Ortiz and Delilah — who all represent a new generation of regional Mexican hitmakers. Encuentros follows, and is a continuation, of Becky’s ultra-personal Esquinas, which she released last year.
“This album is deeply personal and raw, documenting a healing process that’s far from linear,” Becky said in a statement about Encuentros. “I’ve found peace within myself and embraced every part of who I am. I am grateful to música mexicana for allowing me to express the rawest version of myself.” The new album comes on the heels of her new tour, Casa Gómez: Otro Capítulo, set to kick off today (Oct. 11). — GRISELDA FLORES
Pedro Capó, LiL CaKe & DeMasters, “Si Alguien Me Ve” (ReLo-Co. Music/Globalatino Music Partners)
In a first collaborative effort, Pedro Capó and LiL CaKe deliver “Si Alguien Me Ve” (If Anyone Sees Me). Helmed by Venezuelan producers DeMasters, the bonafide team up kicks off with the pensive Argentine newcomer LiL CaKe backed by a melancholic ballad: “I know I messed up many times […] you deserve someone better than me, who doesn’t make you cry, who doesn’t make you suffer,” he chants. The track smoothly transitions into a rhythmic cumbia villera, where Capó continues with a just as nostalgic chorus: “If anyone sees me in the streets/ I’m looking for you/ I think you moved,” further emphasizing in the lyrics that no one compares to his ex. — JESSICA ROIZ
Jerri Di, “Asilo” (Universal Music Latino)
Venezuelan musician Jerri D releases an ode to Venezuela with “Asilo,” a song that marks the end of a conceptual project titled ASILO COLLECTIONS: VOL V – Aceptación. “Dedicated to the 8 million Venezuelans abroad. And to the 24 million within,” the singer said in a press release, “Asilo” is a love letter that evokes his longing from exile. “How much I miss you/ I want the old days to come back/ This love has me on strike,” Jerry sings urgently over shimmering synths and a haunting bass line. “Asilo” arrives with an emotional music video directed by Reinaldo Díaz and produced by Juan Diasparra, which features striking images of Venezuela and its people captured throughout the country over 33 days. “We wanted to show our land to those who have not known it,” a message reads at the beginning of the clip. “What we found was the reason why millions of us have never lost faith in Venezuela.” — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS
Listen to more editors’ Latin recommendations in the playlist below:
In an industry constantly evolving with new musical trends, Yandel has opted to stay faithful to the genre that made him a household name, further proving on his new album why he remains one of the most elite artists in the game.
Titled just that — ELYTE (replacing the I with the Y in honor of his artistic name) — the Puerto Rican artist presents his eighth solo studio album. The 19-track production is for the most part an entire album of reggaetón music, fusing the old-school sound with modern elements. Notably, the collaborators on the set include Tego Calderon, J Balvin, Feid, Myke Towers, Farruko and Blessd, to name a few.
“I feel deeply blessed and happy that my music has managed to transcend at different stages of my career,” the artist born Llandel Veguilla Malavé tells Billboard. “I always seek to evolve by staying true to my essence, without losing what defines me, but making sure that my music continues to connect with the public.”
ELYTE follows Yandel’s Resistencia (2023), Quien Contra Mi 2 (2020), The One (2019), #Update (2017), Dangerous (2015), De Líder a Leyenda (2013), and Quien Contra Mi (2003). Both his 2013 and 2015 albums hit No. 1 on the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart.
The album’s release also comes ahead of Yandel taking center stage at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week, returning to Miami Beach on Oct. 14-18, with other confirmed artists including Feid, Young Miko, Gloria Estefan, Alejandro Sanz, Maria Becerra and Peso Pluma, among many others.
Yandel — who’s also a finalist at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards for Latin Rhythm Artist of the Year, Duo or Group with Wisin y Yandel — will be joined by Dei V and Roberto Andrade (managing director at Warner Music Latina) for a discussion on the beginning and future of the genre. For tickets and more details, visit BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com.
Below, Yandel breaks down five essential tracks from ELYTE.
“Reggaetón Malandro” feat. Tego Calderón
Feid is set to light up Miami as Billboard Latin Music Week marks its 35th year in the heart of Miami Beach. But who is Feid, and how did this Colombian sensation ascend to the echelons of global stardom?
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The Colombian singer-songwriter began his music journey in Medellín, learning the clarinet before focusing on singing. He joined a children’s choir and performed in talent shows. In his 20s, he became a sought-after songwriter for major Latin artists — he co-wrote J Balvin’s first global hit, “Ginza” (2015) — and signed with Universal Music Latin Entertainment. Feid released his debut album, Así Como Suena, in 2017, and by his third album, Ferxxo, Vol. 1: M.O.R. (2020), he had reached No. 1 on Latin Airplay.
His success continued with albums such as Feliz Cumpleaños Ferxxo Te Pirateamos el Álbum (2022), and Mor, No le Temas a la Oscuridad (2023), which peaked at No. 31 on the Billboard 200. To date, he holds eight No. 1 hits on Latin Airplay and 10 Latin Rhythm Airplay charts.
Ferxxo’s journey is highlighted as he prepares to appear at Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami on Monday, Oct. 14, on a panel called From Clubs to Stadiums featuring Feid, presented by Live Nation. Get your tickets here.
Watch the video about Feid’s success above, then catch up on more Billboard Explains videos and learn about Peso Pluma and the Mexican music boom, the role record labels play, origins of hip-hop, how Beyoncé arrived at Renaissance, BBMAs, NFTs, SXSW, American Music Awards, the Billboard Latin Music Awards and more.
Cuban artist José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, best known as El Taiger, has died. He was 37 years old. The urbano singer passed away on Thursday (Oct. 10) a week after being shot in the head, his family confirmed in an official statement posted on El Taiger’s Instagram Stories.
“On the morning of Friday, October 4, 2024, Jose Manuel Carvajal, known as ‘El Taiger,’ was the victim of a senseless violent crime. He was found near Jackson Memorial Hospital and immediately transported to the Emergency Intensive Care Unit,” the statement reads. “From the moment of his arrival, a team of physicians at Jackson Memorial worked tirelessly to provide him with the care he needed. We are extremely grateful. During this incredibly difficult time, family, friends and supporters joined together in prayer, hope and support, seeking a miracle. To all who offered their prayers, we thank you. Sadly, this afternoon, El Taiger was pronounced dead and is now reunited with his beloved mother in heaven.”
One of the most popular Cubaton artists (a genre that fuses reggaeton with traditional Cuban rhythms), El Taiger is known for his Cuban-rooted urban sound heard in songs such as “La Historia,” “El Papelito” and “Habla Matador.” His debut album, Taiger, was released in 2016 on Puerto Rican hip-hop artist Cosculluela’s label Rottboyz, and in 2017, he was featured on the Fate of the Furious movie soundtrack on producer Pinto “Wahin” and DJ Ricky Luna’s track “La Habana.” His most recent production, “Rulay,” in collaboration with Ecuadorian newcomer Niko G, came out this summer.
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According to a press conference offered by the chief of the Miami Police Department last week, officers responded to a call just after 7 a.m. on Oct. 3, where they found a man inside a black vehicle who had suffered a gunshot wound to the head. El Taiger was then transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he underwent surgery and remained in critical condition until his passing. Billboard reached out to the Miami PD to get an update on the investigation, but did not hear back at press time.
“While this news is both shocking and heartbreaking, we encourage fans of El Taiger to honor his memory by celebrating the joy he brought to so many,” the family’s statement continues. “Turn up your music, dance and celebrate his life. El Taiger was the sentiment of the people, and now we must keep that sentiment alive through his music and his legacy.”
J Balvin has reeled in some of his biggest and personal celebrity friends for a new docuseries called A Great Day With J Balvin, premiering on Thursday, Oct. 17, via Peacock.
The six episode series will “take audiences on a personal journey” with the Colombian artist and “his captivating quest to uncover the secrets of a truly fulfilling life,” according to a press statement. Balvin is joined by Anitta, Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, Demi Lovato, Jimmy Butler, Saweetie, and Xolo Maridueña “as they embark on a series of unexpected and transformative adventures together.”
“Whatever comes my way, I make it a great day … whether by playing sports, meditating, the zouk, cooking,” he said in the trailer that arrived Thursday (Oct. 10). “Join me on this journey. We are not what we have, we are what we are.”
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A Great Day With J Balvin sheds light on how Balvin (real name José Álvaro Osorio Balvin) — one of the first major Latin artists to publicly speak about his struggles with mental health — finds his balance.
“That’s why I said before, in the darkest moments, I didn’t lose control. But I take my pills daily,” he told Billboard in his cover story interview. “It’s perfectly normal, as if someone had an issue with high [blood] pressure. But there’s also meditation — I’ve been meditating since I was 19 years old — daily exercise, eating habits and the people you surround yourself with. The fact that I don’t do drugs or anything like that has also been part of having that mental, spiritual balance.”
Additionally, the “Mi Gente” singer is confirmed for a Superstar Q&A at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week, returning to Miami Beach on Oct. 14-18, with other confirmed artists including Feid, Young Miko, Gloria Estefan, Alejandro Sanz, Maria Becerra, and Peso Pluma, among many others. For tickets and more details, visit BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com.
He will also receive the Spirit of Hope Award at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards, recognizing his philanthropic efforts through his Vibra En Alta Foundation, which aims to elevate young individuals by supporting their educational journeys. The awards ceremony will air Sunday, Oct. 20 via Telemundo.
Watch the trailer for A Great Day With J Balvin below:
The 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards will honor some of Latin music’s biggest stars with special recognitions during the ceremony, which will broadcast Oct. 20 on Telemundo.
As previously announced, regional Mexican star Pepe Aguilar will receive the Hall of Fame Award, joining past recipients like Joan Sebastian, Marc Anthony and Vicente Fernández. Colombian hitmaker J Balvin will be honored with the Spirit of Hope Award, which was created more than 20 yeas ago in honor of Selena Quintanilla. Meanwhile, Spanish icon Alejandro Sanz will be bestowed the Lifetime Achievement Award, which in the past has been awarded to acts like Los Temerarios, Ricardo Arjona and Los Ángeles Azules.
Days before receiving their special awards, all three artists will also speak at the 35th annual Billboard Latin Music Week, taking place Oct. 14-18 in Miami. Aguilar, Balvin and Sanz will participate in their respective Icon Q&As where they’ll sit with Billboard‘s Leila Cobo for a one-on-one conversation. (Check the weeklong event’s full schedule here.)
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The 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards will broadcast Sunday, Oct. 20 at 9 p.m. ET on Telemundo, and simultaneously on the Telemundo App, Peacock, and throughout Latin America and the Caribbean on Telemundo Internacional. Karol G leads the list of finalists with 17 nods in categories including artist of the year, tour of the year, Global 200 Latin artist of the year, and top Latin album of the year for Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season). See the complete list here.
Below, the three artists who will be honored with special awards at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards:
Pepe Aguilar
Recognition: Hall of Fame Award
Past Recipients: José José, Vicente Fernández, Rocío Dúrcal, Marco Antonio Solís, Joan Sebastian, Marc Anthony, Franco de Vita, and Alejandro Fernández, to name a few.
“Receiving the Billboard Hall of Fame Award is an incredible honor, and it reminds me of the importance of continually evolving as an artist,” Aguilar says. “After 35 years in this industry, I feel just as passionate and driven as I did on day one. It’s exciting to see how música Mexicana is growing and evolving, and I’m proud to be part of that movement. What’s even more special is being able to connect with a new generation of fans while staying true to my roots. I’ve reinvented myself time and time again, and as music continues to evolve, I’m ready to keep pushing boundaries and creating something new.”
J Balvin
Recognition: Spirit of Hope Award
Past recipients: Carlos Santana, Carlos Vives, Daddy Yankee, Juanes, Juan Luis Guerra, Karol G, Los Tigres del Norte, Maná, Ricky Martin and Shakira, among others.
“I’m so grateful, and so honored, to be recognized with such a special award,” the Colombian hitmaker says in a press statement. “It’s important for me, as the artist I am today and that little kid with dreams I once was before – and still [am] to this day – to be able to support and guide the next generation into realities of their own. I am proud to be able to help the youth and new wave discover their passions through the Vibra en Alta Foundation and help turn those very dreams into realities.”
Alejandro Sanz
Recognition: Lifetime Achievement Award
Past recipients: Los Ángeles Azules, Los Temerarios, Miguel Bosé and Ricardo Arjona, and others.
“I’m very happy to return to the Billboard Latin Music Awards, it’s certainly special,” Sanz expresses in a statement. “I am deeply grateful for this recognition from Billboard, and I love that it takes place in Miami. It’s fantastic to be home.”