Rocio Robles
The Latin Billboard Music Awards have always been the biggest celebration of Latin music, bringing together the genre’s brightest stars over the years. Since its inception, the awards have been a favorite stage for memorable performances, emotional speeches and unexpected collaborations.
Stay with us and learn about the 5 most epic moments in the history of the Billboard Awards, and how the awards have grown year after year. In this JefeBet article, we’ll take a look back at the moments when Latin music has shined in all its splendor, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of fans and viewers around the world.
1. Latin music on television
1999
Telemundo Network’s first-ever broadcast of the Billboard Latin Music Awards, which took place in Miami. For the first time, the world experiences all the rhythm and heat of Latin music from home, making the awards a global celebration.
On this occasion, Ricky Martin became the center of attention with his performance of “Livin’ La Vida Loca”, and won Pop Album of the Year with his album “Vuelve”, as well as Latin Pop Song of the Year. The awards ceremony was also attended by other renowned Latin artists such as Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony and the incomparable Shakira.
2. More Livin’ La Vida Loca
2000
The 2000 Billboard Latin Conference introduced a one-on-one Q&A session with Enrique Iglesias. This innovative format allowed attendees to interact more directly with the famous singer, providing a unique and memorable experience that would be repeated in subsequent years of the awards show.
Ricky Martin took home the award for Latin Pop Song of the Year with his iconic “Livin’ La Vida Loca”. Also this year, Marco Antonio Solis of Los Bukis was inducted into the Hall of Fame, immortalizing and recognizing his valuable contribution to Latin music.
A Latino cover for change
2006
The Miami Beach conference set a new attendance record for 2006, marking a milestone for Latino culture-related events. The iconic Daddy Yankee took center stage in the much-anticipated Q&A session, and Latinos celebrated the first English-language cover featuring a reggaeton star.
This year’s Billboard Awards were also the scene of unforgettable moments, such as Shakira’s powerful debut performance of “Hips Don’t Lie” with Wyclef. As if that wasn’t enough, Shakira was honored with the prestigious Spirit of Hope Award, accompanied by children from her foundation in Colombia, symbolizing her commitment to social change.
3. Latin explosion in Puerto Rico
2010
In 2010, Billboard chose Puerto Rico as the venue for the music awards. For the first and only time, and thanks to a special collaboration with the local government, this event was possible to be held in Latin territory.
In addition, the event also incorporated, for the first time, three exclusive Q&A sessions. Among the featured attendees were musical icons such as Aventura, Marc Anthony and Elvis Crespo, who shared their experiences and knowledge in unique sessions.
4. One million fans
2017
More than one million fans vibrated to the rhythm of reggaeton when stars Nicky Jam and J Balvin faced off in an epic live head-to-head battle. The event marked a milestone in urban music, capturing the attention of fans around the world.
On the other hand, Maluma made history with his debut at the prestigious Billboard Latin Music Week. In addition, an intense Q&A session hosted by Sony ATV with Calle 13’s Residente sparked a Puerto Rican rap battle that spanned more than two months, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
5. Unforeseen changes
2020
After more than three decades of running smoothly, Billboard Latin Music Week underwent an unprecedented change. Due to the Covid pandemic, the event was not held in April as usual, but was moved to September and held in the vibrant city of Miami.
That year, Billboard Latin Music Week was transformed into a virtual experience of the highest caliber, with iconic stars such as Rosalia, Nicky Jam and Carlos Vives headlining an unforgettable show, along with other leading artists.
Latin music in all its splendor
The Latin Billboard Music Awards have been the stage for unforgettable moments that honor the richness and diversity of Latin music in all its splendor and warmth. Year after year, this ceremony becomes a showcase of impressive artists, collaborations and emotional tributes that highlight the evolution of the genre and its impact worldwide.
These events are not only remembered for their incredible music and performances, but also for the powerful messages of unity, empowerment and hope that they convey to all those who watch expectantly. With the growing popularity of Latin music around the world, it is exciting to anticipate the new epic moments that future Billboard Awards will bring.
That’s why at JefeBet we won’t hesitate to continue sharing the best events and accounts of memorable celebrations so you’ll always be up to date with everything that’s going on in Latin culture around the world. Get ready with us to celebrate Latin music in all its splendor on October 20 in Miami, Florida, with the new edition of the Latin Billboard Music Awards 2024.
