Latin
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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.
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Yeison Jimenez Gives Back to His Fans
This week, Yeison Jimenez made the dreams of one of his beloved fans in Colombia come true. The renowned música popular artist first surprised his fan named Diana with tickets to his concert, but in an extended letter, he revealed that he was also helping her with a university scholarship. In a video shared on social media, Jimenez expressed that Diana has been unable to pay for her studies and continue with her education. “One day I dreamed of being able to help people and give a little of what I lacked, today that I can do it, I prove to myself that I have done things well,” he wrote on Instagram. “Thank you God for allowing me to fulfill a dream and thank you @tiempodejuego (foundation) for making it come true.”
Myke Towers Supports Women’s Basketball
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A real sports aficionado, Myke Towers is supporting the women’s basketball team in his native Puerto Rico by donating $25,000 to the Puerto Rico Basketball Federation (FBPUR) through his Young Kingz Foundation. According to a press release, the contribution is to support the athletes as they prepare to participate at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Derrick Luna, president of Young Kingz Foundation, said the support also “reflects the belief in their discipline and ability to represent the country with excellence.”
Fuerza Regida’s “JOP” Helps Out His Community
In celebration of their new album, Pero No Te Enamores, Fuerza Regida gave back to their community in San Bernardino, Calif. A video posted on frontman JOP’s YouTube channel, documents how the Mexican-American singer showed up at a local Home Depot to recruit the workers outside, offer them work, and later surprise them with a well-deserved day off. The clip captures seven labor workers hanging out with JOP in a warehouse as the artist gifts them each with food, drinks, live music, haircuts, Fuerza Regida merch, and money. One of the most heartwarming moments in the video is when they are all sharing their personal stories. Watch the video below.
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Karol G Ends Mañana Será Bonito Era
This week, after a yearlong trek, Karol G officially wrapped her Mañana Será Bonito World Tour in Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where she became the first artist to sell out four shows at that venue. After unwinding, the Colombian superstar shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, thanking her team, family, friends, colleagues, and fans, for being part of her successful journey.
“Thank you for working your ass off with me every day this past year, thank you for the efforts and sacrifices and the countless hours of preparation to give the best to an audience to which I owe so much. Today I look at the result of what we built and I see exactly everything I dreamed of years ago,” she expressed. “The girl from the last video, is VERY, VERY proud of the woman you have become today, because even though nobody knows everything you have done to be there, at least they can see that fighting for yourself was worth it, that after so much it was beautiful, that dreams do come true and that hard work pays off. That is the most meaningful message you can leave the world.”
In the message, which she wrote in Spanish and can be read below, she assured her fans that she is inseparable with them, and that this is only the beginning of many wonderful things.
This week, Billboard’s New Music Latin roundup and playlist — curated by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors — features fresh new music from artists such as Grupo Frontera, Fuerza Regida, Elsa y Elmar, Monsieur Periné and more. Mexican-American ensemble Grupo Frontera has teamed up with Romeo Santos for “Ángel,” a sweet bachata track produced by Santos, Edgar Barrera and Casta. The mainly bachata […]
New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard’s Latin and Billboard Español editors. Check out this week’s picks below.
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Fuerza Regida, Pero No Te Enamores (Street Mob Records/Rancho Humilde)
Harnessing the blistering spirit of corridos bélicos and the dance-floor fervor of EDM, the latest venture from Fuerza Regida launches into a bold, unprecedented meld of regional Mexican bravado and pulsating Jersey club in Pero No Te Enamores. With lyrical theatrics and unapologetic “f–kboy” charisma, frontman Jesús Ortiz Paz (JOP) ushers listeners into this audacious new chapter they’ve coined, “Jersey Corridos,” embedding a gritty narrative into each bass drop and brass blast.
Crafted in Colombia and Mexico City, the irreverent, fifteen-track album is a riveting blend of electronic music dynamism and música mexicana’s soulful undertows. They enlist music producers Gordo (known for his work on Drake’s Baltimore club hit “Sticky”) and Synthetic, the architect behind Lil Uzi Vert’s Jersey club smash hit “Just Wanna Rock,” whose cutting-edge production styles thrust Mexican music into the main room.
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The album’s focus track, “Nel,” starts with stirring vocal delivery that ascends into a captivating crescendo; it then pivots sharply, intertwining throbbing Jersey club beats with vigorous reggaetón. “Sofía,” a synergistic powerhouse featuring Major Lazer and Alok, captures the global resonance of dance music while demonstrating the exuberant flair characteristic of Fuerza’s approach. The album reaches a peak with the robust, traditional corrido strains of “Jesús” and “Belinda,” with guitar- and brass-driven bombast, and with “Freestyle,” a track that introduces a thrilling drill influence.
The San Bernardino band’s innovative leap into Jersey corridos does more than fuse two disparate genres — it carves out a fresh niche in the musical lexicon, affirming that the barrios and dancehalls can, indeed, share a singular, resonant heartbeat. — ISABELA RAYGOZA
Piso 21 & Ozuna, “Fichaje del Año” (Warner Music Mexico)
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In a first collaborative effort, Piso 21 and Ozuna deliver a new track that will boost any woman’s confidence. In “Fichaje del Año” (which translates to “signing of the year”), the Colombian group and Puerto Rican artist sing about the girl who is the complete package, but the partner she’s with doesn’t recognize it. “He never tells you anything/ Look how beautiful you are/ You’re the ideal girl/ But he treats you normal/ He’s no good for you/ Don’t forget you’re the ideal girl,” they sing in the chorus. Produced by ICON, Jowan and Rolo, the infectious pop-reggaetón tune with suave requintos also serves as a friendly reminder that self-love comes above all. “You have to let go and admit that it’s not your place […] that man doesn’t know how lucky he is to have you,” continues the track. — JESSICA ROIZ
Grupo Frontera & Romeo Santos, “Ángel” (Grupo Frontera)
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It’s not the first time bachata and Mexican music fuse, but it is the first time Grupo Frontera and Romeo Santos team up for a song. Their first collaborative effort is a delicate and swoon-worthy bachata where Santos’ soothing and velvety vocals meet Payo’s melodic voice. “Ángel” is about the type of love and devotion that transcends time and circumstances. Produced by Santos, Edgar Barrera and Casta, the song is mainly powered by the traditional bachata sound but if you stick around till the end, you’ll hear Frontera’s signature norteño accordion take command for the ultimate fusion of norteño and bachata. — GRISELDA FLORES
Fabiola Roudha, “Que Te Vaya Bien” (Fabiola Roudha)
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Guatemalan singer-songwriter Fabiola Rouhda delivers a master class in soul with her new single, “Que Te Vaya Bien” (good luck), an exquisite and nostalgic ballad filled with sentiment. The song combines soulful blues and gospel elements, showcasing Rouhda’s powerful vocals as she gracefully sings about letting go of a love story and wishing them the best. Accompanied by her acoustic guitar, Rouhda composed the emotional song, which was produced by Franc Castillejos and David Suarez in her home country. — INGRID FAJARDO
Elsa y Elmar, “Ké MaL” (Sony Music México)
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Elsa Carvajal, better known by the name of her project Elsa y Elmar, brings this week “Ké Mal,” a perfect pop song to vent about heartbreak at the top of your lungs. “Too bad that we crossed paths in life when it was ready/ And in yours right now there is a labyrinth/ Too bad that now we don’t want the same thing,” the Colombian star sings with pathos over the syncopated rhythm of an electric guitar and drums. Produced by Elsa and Julián Bernal, “Ké Mal” is the fourth single from her upcoming album PALACIO, which will be released on Aug. 30. It’s a splendid complement to the previously released “entre las libros”, “palacio
Fabled Mexican music singer and producer Pepe Aguilar has signed a worldwide deal with SESAC Latina, Billboard has learned. Previously with BMI, he now joins his children, Ángela and Leonardo Aguilar, who are also part of the SESAC Latina roster. “We are pleased to announce that superstar Pepe Aguilar has affiliated with SESAC Latina,” Celeste Zendejas, SVP, […]
Riding the wave of a blockbuster year so far, Billboard Español April cover star Myke Towers is poised to embark on his North American tour, La Pantera Negra, this fall. Explore Explore See latest videos, charts and news See latest videos, charts and news After touring Spain, Towers will recreate that stint in 18 cities […]
In one of the most powerful and emotional moments of the 2024 Premios Juventud, Lele Pons emphasized her message of self-love when she was recognized as an Agent of Change at the Thursday (July 25) ceremony in Puerto Rico’s José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum .
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After tearfully receiving the award from her father, who seemed to have surprised her by presenting it, the Venezuelan influencer and singer regained her composure and gave a powerful and eloquent speech to the millions of people who follow her on social media.
“Enough of looking for your happiness in the acceptance of other people who don’t value you. Look for it in God, look for it in yourself and in the people who love you and who will be there for you,” Pons said. “I use my platform to see if I can help people love themselves and take life [more lightly] and laugh at their cellulite, and if you got your nose done, please show that, be you, be transparent.”
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“I’m here because I want you to love yourselves, because, who cares? So what? Not everyone is going to love you, you don’t have to be liked by everyone. That is THEIR problem, not yours. Love yourself, respect yourself, you’re enough,” she added.
Pons served as the evening’s co-host alongside Clarissa Molina and Wisin, and was one of three honorees with the Spirit of Change award, which “recognizes and celebrates” young entrepreneurs and prominent stars who “selflessly contribute to creating a better world.” The other two honorees were Anitta and Los Tigres del Norte.
In its 21st annual edition, Premios Juventud had Carín León, Maluma, Peso Pluma, Karol G, and Shakira among its main nominees. To see the list of winners, click here.
Watch Lele’s speech below.
A wave of Latin artists, emerging and established, arrived at the 2024 Premios Juventud in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Thursday (July 25) to traditionally celebrate the “extraordinary accomplishments in society, celebrating music, new artists, community and creators,” according to a press release.
This year’s fan-voted award show—which gave prominence to creators, figures who “lead on social media, by introducing new award categories to spotlight those who are making significant waves in la cultura”—were lead by top nominees Carin León, Maluma, and Peso Pluma, with seven nominations each. Karol G was the big winner of the night, nabbing five awards including female Premios Juventud artist and best urban album for Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season). (See full winners list here)
Other top nominees included Shakira with six nominations; Becky G and Grupo Frontera with five nominations; and up for four awards each, Bad Bunny, Bizarrap, Farruko, Feid, Fuerza Regida, Manuel Turizo and Ozuna.
Meanwhile, artists such as Ivy Queen, Natti Natasha, Emilia, Prince Royce, Los Esquivel, Los Ángeles Azules, and Reik, took center stage at the ceremony for memorable performances.
Additionally, Premios Juventud recognized Anitta, Lele Pons, and Los Tigres del Norte with the coveted “Agent of Change” recognition, celebrating young entrepreneurs and prominent stars who selflessly contribute to creating a better world. Previous AOC titleholders include Ricky Martin, Shakira, Becky G, Camila Cabello, J Balvin, and Daddy Yankee, to name a few.
As all of this was televised live on Univision and streamed on ViX, Billboard was catching all the action backstage—at the red carpet and media center—that you didn’t see on TV. Check out the list below:
Dembow & Música Mexicana Meet
The stage was set for a monumental tribute at Premios Juventud 2024, as the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot came alive to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Fania Records. The tribute not only revisited the indelible imprint Fania has left on music but also the enduring influence of its legendary icons like Willie Colón, Celia Cruz, Héctor Lavoe, and Tito Puente.
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Kicking off the medley with the seminal “Oye Como Va” by Tito Puente, the legendary Venezuelan Oscar D’León delivered a powerful rendition right from the start, looking snazzy in a yellow metallic suit.
Meanwhile, salsa producer/keyboardist Sergio George and Peruvian-American percussionist Tony Succa, and Tito Puente Jr. accompanied him, and eventually the rest of the singers who took front stage.
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The set continued to dazzle as Anitta, in a sparkly mustard dress, delivered a passionate rendition of La Lupe’s “Fiebre.” Tener fiebre no es de ahora, hace mucho tiempo que empezó. ¡Ayyy!,” she belted, surrounded by men in black lace shirts.
A peak moment occurred when La India — a powerhouse who has famously reimagined Celia Cruz’s transcendental hits — not only sang “Quimbara” but sang the hell out of the salsa smasher. “Le canto a la reina de la salsa, Celia Cruz, a la estrella de la Fania,” she wailed.
Then, Puerto Rican singer Luis Figueroa took the stage, wearing a dark glimmering suite, to deliver Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe’s “Aguanile”. Ivy Queen, with her long blonde hair, sang “Mi Gente” by Héctor Lavoe.
“Not only did Fania All-Stars made musical history, but it united people of different cultures and origins, and through the power of salsa, they made history,” said host/superstar Wisin prior to the star-studded tribute.
As new and old fans alike were reminded of Fania’s radical origins and its role in propelling Latin music on the global stage, the tribute at the award show underscored the timeless appeal and cultural significance of the fabled label.
The 2024 Premios Juventud is hosted by Lele Pons, Clarissa Molina and Wisin. See the list of this year’s winners here.
Mexican cumbia icons Los Ángeles Azules and Argentine star Emilia joined forces to sing their chart-topping Billboard hit “Perdonarte, ¿Para Qué?” at Premios Juventud 2024. Their performance marked a milestone, celebrating Los Ángeles Azules’ debut No. 1 on the chart after an impressive three decades in the music industry. Explore See latest videos, charts and news […]
You can always count on Los Tigres del Norte to tell it how it is, both onstage and off the stage.
On Thursday (July 25), the legendary Mexican group attended, for the first time ever, the Premios Juventud awards show, where they were honored with an Agent of Change Award for being La Voz del Pueblo. For decades, the band has used its platform to fight for social justice and amplify marginalized voices while advocating for immigration policies.
“It’s a great satisfaction but at the same time very big because Agent of Change means many things,” Hernan Hernández told Billboard on the red carpet, just ahead of the awards ceremony. “But especially the people who help without expecting anything in return, help the community. Our music has helped many things, but outside of music, it helps people who need it; that gives us great satisfaction, to be able to do something with those who have given you so much. That is the distinction.”
The band also shared a few words about the landscape of the 2024 presidential election in the United States. As artists who have encouraged the Latino vote, the band’s leader, Jorge Hernández, expressed, “We were a little nervous, but now that Mr. President has decided to leave a path for Kamala, well, I think that now we can realize the dream that we all want, and that she will be elected on this occasion, for various reasons.” Adding, “We invite you to vote, those who can vote, and make their own decision. We will be fighting at any time to continue communicating to the whole nation the great importance of voting.”
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During the show, Los Tigres del Norte gave a powerful performance of their latest hit “Aquí Mando Yo,” and later thanked their families and fans for the support.
The 2024 Premios Juventud — a fan-voted awards show — is taking place at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan and hosted by Lele Pons, Clarissa Molina and Wisin. For its 21st annual ceremony, Carin León, Maluma, Peso Pluma, Karol G and Shakira are among the most nominated acts. Meanwhile, Anitta, Los Tigres del Norte and Lele Pons each received an Agent of Change Award, which “recognizes and celebrates” young entrepreneurs and prominent stars who “selflessly contribute to creating a better world,” according to the awards show. See the list of this year’s winners here.
—Additional reporting by Jessica Roiz