From career milestones to new 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.
Juanes, Nicky Jam, Goyo, and Leaders Across Sports and Business Launch Marea Viva for Chocó
A new relief effort is uniting some of Colombia’s most recognizable folks in support of communities affected by the Aug. 10 earthquake. Marea Viva, for the Chocó of Tomorrow brings together Juanes, James Rodríguez, Mariana Pajón, Rigoberto Urán, David Ospina, Goyo, Manuel Medrano, Juan Luis Guerra, Alejandro Sanz, Nicky Jam, Altafulla and more to help fund safe, earthquake-resistant housing and essential rebuilding efforts in Chocó. Led by Progresa Chocó, Fundación Mi Sangre, Fundación Bancolombia, Grupo Argos and other partners, the initiative seeks to address both the immediate emergency and long-term housing needs in a region where heavy rainfall and limited road access present unique challenges. Grupo Argos, Fundación Bancolombia, RedPro and Juanes have already pledged $3.2 million, with the campaign aiming to raise at least another $5 million. Click here to donate.
Amazon Music Honors Juan Gabriel’s Legacy 10 Years After His Death
A decade after Juan Gabriel’s passing, Amazon Music is honoring El Divo de Juárez with a multifaceted tribute that includes curated playlists, a collectible vinyl release and a new interpretation of his classic “Así Fue” by Arthur Hanlon featuring Thalía. Fans can now stream the Amazon Music Original and pre-order the 10th Anniversary Commemorative Amazon Exclusive Vinyl Edition of Juan Gabriel en el Palacio de Bellas Artes, due Sept. 11. “Juan Gabriel is not only one of the greatest ambassadors of Mexican music around the world, he is the heart and soul of Spanish-language music,” Rocío Guerrero, Amazon Music’s director of Latin-Iberia, said in a statement. The tribute arrives as his catalog continues to find new audiences: Over the past year, his music was streamed in 47 countries on Amazon Music, with more than half a million listeners becoming new fans.
Hispanic Heritage Awards Set to Honor Eladio Carrión, Mon Laferte, Oscar D’León & More
The 39th annual Hispanic Heritage Awards are set for Sept. 10 at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, honoring artists and leaders whose work has shaped culture and community. Eladio Carrión will receive the Inspira Award, while Mon Laferte will be recognized with the Social Justice Award, salsa icon Oscar D’León will receive the Legend Award, and Rep. Joaquín Castro will be honored with the Public Service Award. “I’m really grateful to receive the Inspira Award from the Hispanic Heritage Foundation,” said Carrión in a press release. “I’ve always believed in betting on yourself, staying true to where you come from and using your platform to open doors for the next generation. I’m proud to represent Puerto Rico and our Latino community, and I’m thankful for everyone who’s been part of this journey.”
Mon Laferte Celebrates Sold-Out Radio City Music Hall Show and New Live Video
Mon Laferte continues her banner Femme Fatale era with multiple sold-out dates across her North American tour. The Chilean-Mexican artist has been packing venues in support of Femme Fatale, Vol. 2, which expands her theatrical, alternative world through blues, folk, punk and alt-rock influences. To mark the tour’s momentum, Laferte also released a live performance video for “Femme Fatale,” filmed during one of her three sold-out shows at Mexico City’s Palacio de los Deportes, where she played to a combined crowd of 40,000 fans. The run comes as she prepares to receive the 2026 Social Justice Award at the Hispanic Heritage Awards, recognizing her work using music and art to advocate for equality, human rights and marginalized communities. Watch “Femme Fatale (Live frm Palacio de los Deportes)” below.
