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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Laura Pausini Sings at Opening Ceremony of the Winter Olympics
Grammy-winning artist Laura Pausini delivered a soul-stirring rendition of Italy’s national anthem, “Il Canto degli Italiani,” at the Opening Ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Friday (Feb. 6). Backed by a choir dressed in Italy’s flag colors, Pausini — wearing an elegant black open-shoulder gown — delivered an emotional performance that set the tone for the global event, celebrating Italy’s rich history. The anthem was written by Goffredo Mameli in the 1800s, serving as a powerful reminder of Italy’s fight for unity and independence. Watch the moment below.
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Fania Legends to Celebrate Johnny Pacheco in New York City
Lehman Center for the Performing Arts in The Bronx, New York, will host Tribute to Johnny Pacheco on Feb. 21, celebrating of the legendary flutist, composer, and co-founder of Fania Records, whose music brought salsa to worldwide recognition. Featuring a lineup of Fania legends and stars — including Bobby Valentín, Nicky Marrero, Alfredo de la Fe, Jimmy Bosch and Eddie Montalvo — the evening promises to bring “the spirit and lasting influence of Johnny Pacheco,” says the press release.
The late Dominican-born, New York-raised musician helped defined salsa with classics like “Acuyuyé,” “La Dicha Mía,” and “Mi Gente,” while also producing recordings such as Celia Cruz’s “Quimbara.” Directed by Oscar Hernandez, this one-night-only event will be held at Lehman College’s campus in Bronx, NY. Tickets can be purchased online or through the box office.
Juanes Announces Next Album Release Date & Title
Recently ranked No. 9 on Billboard‘s Top Latin Artists of the 21st Century chart, Juanes has announced the release date and title of his next album. Titled JuanesTeban and set for release on March 6, the Colombian rock star shared the news in a press release, stating, “I wanted to make the kind of album that would take me back to the land of dancing and cumbia — the feeling of Latin America, the root of folklore.”
He continued, “This record is also different from the others, because I finally got to explore the many facets of my personality. It’s like a kaleidoscope of my many moods: joyful, enthusiastic, melancholy.” Check out the album trailer below.
Cazzu Adds More Dates For her North American Latinaje Tour
Following the announcement of Cazzu’s first U.S. tour, the Argentinian star has added seven additional dates due to fan demand. The tour— promoted by Live Nation and in support of her album Latinaje — will begin on April 23 at the Chicago Theatre and run through May, with stops in major cities such as El Paso, Houston, Phoenix, New York, and will wrap up in Hollywood, Fla. at the Hard Rock Live venue on May 21. Tickets are now available via livenation.com. See the full dates below.
Carmen DeLeon Sings to Her Idol Jessie J
Dreams came true for Venezuelan singer Carmen DeLeon when she shared an emotional moment with her idol, Jessie J, during a recent concert. Posted to her socials on Monday (Feb. 2), DeLeon is seen in the front row of the audience with mic in hand, with Jessie allowing her to sing “Nobody’s Perfect” from the British artist’s 2011 album, Who You Are. The heartfelt exchange included a touching moment where the two held hands, marking a milestone for DeLeon. The former star of The Voice Spain told Wonderland Magazine in 2020, “I grew up listening to Jessie J. All my vocal technique is basically from watching her sing and telling my vocal coach I wanted to sing like her. Jessie J was always an inspiration for me growing up.” Watch the moment below.
