Candice Horbacz
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.
It’s not every day you see a conga line break out at a concert, much less one led by two musicians who seem like they fell out of a fever dream. But that’s exactly how the night climaxed on Friday, March 27, when the uncanny Argentine duo CA7RIEL y Paco Amoroso took over Canvas on 10th in Chelsea, New York, to perform their electrifying new album, Free Spirits, for the first time. The event, presented by Spotify, was a meticulously curated experience that blended avant-garde performance art with a surprising emphasis on attendee well-being, culminating in a high-octane showcase that embodied the album’s ethos.
The evening commenced with an atmosphere designed for introspection and energy cleansing. Attendees, a select group of 200 fans who managed to secure tickets to the intimate venue, were welcomed into a dimly lit space. The initial phase of the event featured a sound bath, intended to "cleanse energy," a unique offering that set a contemplative tone. Complementing this, an aura photography station allowed guests to capture their vibrant energy on glowing polaroids, adding a touch of mystical personalization. Refreshments were equally health-conscious, with a selection of juices, including beet, green, and an enigmatic orange concoction likely rich in turmeric, mirroring the wellness-centric trend prevalent in Los Angeles’ health food scene. This deliberate preamble created a stark contrast with the explosive performance that was to follow, a juxtaposition that underscored the duo’s artistic range and their intention to create a holistic experience for their audience.
The transformation from serene wellness session to unbridled musical celebration was dramatic and utterly captivating. Paco Amoroso, clad in what appeared to be marathon-ready runner’s gear – complete with spandex and a lightweight vest – exuded a deliberate, almost absurdist, athleticism. CA7RIEL, on the other hand, embraced his rock-star persona with a bleached mullet, an oversized sleeveless tee, visible tattoos, and retro ’70s sunglasses. Together, their visual aesthetic was a potent blend of controlled chaos and undeniable charisma, their presentation as irreverent and bold as their music.
Backed by their formidable band, CA7RIEL y Paco Amoroso launched into their set with the raw, untamed energy of "Nada Nuevo." The performance transitioned seamlessly into Paco’s distinctive, raspy vocals on the delightfully absurdist "Goo Goo Ga Ga," followed by the infectious, euphoric pop-rock hooks of "Soy Increíble," which immediately sent the crowd into a frenzy. The energy continued to build with "Hasta Jesús Tuvo Un Mal Día," a fan-favorite track that featured a surprise collaboration with Sting, further electrifying the room. CA7RIEL’s mastery of the guitar was on full display, particularly his blistering Fender riffs on tracks like "Ay Ay Ay," where he also showcased a vintage ’70s Gibson, adding a layer of raw, authentic rock sound to their already dynamic performance. In true Free Spirits fashion, the duo then plunged into the audience, initiating an impromptu conga line that snaked through the venue, before escalating to crowd surfing. The entire show was an unhinged, fearless embodiment of the album’s spirit, a testament to the duo’s ability to create an unforgettable, cathartic experience. The sentiment was encapsulated by the show’s closing, echoing the album’s "If you missed it, well… even Jesus had a bad day."
Karol G Shares Emotional Duet with Alicia Keys
Karol G experienced a dream-come-true moment alongside Alicia Keys at her Con Cora Foundation’s Benefit Gala in Miami on March 20. The two powerhouse singers performed "Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart," the same song Karol covered 16 years ago as a devoted fan. Sharing their emotional duet on Instagram on Wednesday, March 25, Keys expressed her delight, writing, "When I found out how much this song meant to her, it was sooooo sweet!" Karol, reflecting on the profound significance of the moment, shared, "I’ve spent my whole life preparing to experience moments that used to seem like nothing more than dreams in my head, and today, after all this time, they’ve come true! I watch this video and the one from 16 years ago, and I can’t believe it." This full-circle moment highlights the enduring power of music to connect artists and fans across time and generations.
The genesis of this duet can be traced back to Karol G’s early years, long before her global superstardom. As an aspiring artist, she honed her craft by covering songs that resonated with her, and Alicia Keys’ "Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart" was a particular favorite. This personal connection, nurtured over years of dedication to her music, culminated in a shared performance on a grand stage. The Con Cora Foundation’s Benefit Gala, an event aimed at supporting educational and cultural initiatives, provided the perfect platform for this deeply meaningful collaboration. The emotional resonance of the performance was palpable, as evidenced by both artists’ heartfelt reactions. Keys’ acknowledgment of the song’s significance to Karol not only validates Karol’s artistic journey but also underscores the impact of music on personal growth and aspiration. For Karol, it represents the realization of a long-held dream, a powerful affirmation of her career trajectory and the emotional depth she brings to her own music. The viral sharing of the duet on social media further amplified its impact, allowing millions of fans to witness this special convergence of talent and shared passion.
Nicky Jam Sells Out the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, Announces Second Show
Nicky Jam’s highly anticipated May 23 concert at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, marking his first performance in his homeland in a decade, sold out in under an hour. The event, aptly titled "El Regreso a Casa" (The Return Home), saw an overwhelming demand from fans eager to welcome the reggaeton superstar back to the island. Over 20,000 fans attempted to purchase tickets when sales opened on March 27 at 10:00 a.m. local time, a testament to his enduring popularity and the deep connection he shares with his Puerto Rican audience. Due to this unprecedented demand, a second show has been added for May 24, coinciding with Memorial Day weekend, as announced on Friday, March 27.
"The response from the public has been extraordinary, and both Nicky and our team are deeply grateful," stated event organizers at VRDG Entertainment in a press release. "This sold-out show is a testament to the fans in Puerto Rico, and we are thrilled to open a second date so more people can experience Nicky Jam’s return home." The rapid sell-out of the initial date underscores the significance of this homecoming for both the artist and his fans. Puerto Rico holds a special place in the heart of the reggaeton genre, and Nicky Jam’s return after a decade-long absence is viewed as a major cultural event. The addition of a second performance reflects the immense fan enthusiasm and ensures that a larger audience can partake in this celebratory occasion. Tickets for the additional show are now available via ticketera.com, providing another opportunity for fans to secure their place at what promises to be a historic series of concerts. The success of these ticket sales is a clear indicator of Nicky Jam’s continued relevance in the music industry and the deep affection his fans hold for him.
Bizarrap Made His Ultra Music Festival Debut on the Main Stage, Featuring Skrillex and Daddy Yankee
Bizarrap made a significant impact at Ultra Music Festival in Miami on Friday, March 27, gracing the main stage alongside an impressive lineup of electronic music heavyweights, including Martin Garrix, Major Lazer, and Armin van Buuren. His highly anticipated set featured a reimagined electronic version of his globally acclaimed "Music Sessions" series. The performance was further elevated by surprise guest appearances from fellow artists Daddy Yankee, joining him for their chart-topping hit "Music Session #/66," and Skrillex, marking a reunion following their previous collaboration at Lollapalooza Argentina.
Bizarrap’s inclusion on the main stage of Ultra Music Festival, one of the world’s premier electronic dance music events, signifies a major career milestone. His distinctive production style, characterized by its infectious beats and collaborations with a diverse range of artists, has propelled him to international fame. The festival appearance provided a global platform to showcase his unique sound to a massive audience. The collaboration with Daddy Yankee, a pioneer of reggaeton, highlighted Bizarrap’s ability to bridge genres and deliver high-energy performances that resonate with fans across the Latin music spectrum. The appearance of Skrillex, a Grammy-winning artist renowned for his innovative electronic music, further solidified Bizarrap’s credibility within the EDM community and demonstrated the growing synergy between Latin urban music and global electronic sounds. This performance not only celebrated Bizarrap’s individual achievements but also underscored the increasing influence of Latin artists on the international festival circuit, signaling a broader trend of genre fusion and cross-cultural collaborations in contemporary music.
Shelly Berg’s Legacy at Frost School of Music, $175M Raised at Event
Shelton G. "Shelly" Berg, the esteemed Dean of the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, celebrated his nearly two-decade tenure at a star-studded event held on March 21 at the Knight Center for Music Innovation. Under his visionary leadership, the Frost School of Music has achieved remarkable growth, raising over $175 million in donations, a significant figure that underscores the institution’s commitment to musical excellence and innovation. The celebratory evening featured captivating performances by a constellation of Frost alumni and notable artists, including Gloria Estefan, Jon Secada, Trent Saunders, and Jenna Rubaii. Faculty members such as John Daversa and Dafnis Prieto also contributed their talents, showcasing the depth of musical artistry fostered at the school.
In a profound gesture of recognition for his indelible impact, the university officially unveiled "Shelly Berg Way," a specially designated pathway on campus. This honor symbolizes Dean Berg’s profound influence on the school and his far-reaching contributions to the broader music world. The nearly 20-year period under his deanship has been marked by significant advancements in curriculum development, performance opportunities, and research initiatives, solidifying Frost’s reputation as one of the premier music institutions globally. The substantial fundraising achievement of over $175 million speaks to the confidence and support that donors have placed in Dean Berg’s leadership and the school’s future. This financial influx will undoubtedly enable further enhancements to facilities, scholarships, and program offerings, ensuring that the Frost School of Music continues to nurture the next generation of musical talent. The unveiling of "Shelly Berg Way" serves as a permanent reminder of his legacy and his enduring commitment to the advancement of music education and artistry. The event itself was a powerful demonstration of the vibrant community that Dean Berg has cultivated, bringing together artists, faculty, students, and supporters to celebrate a shared vision for musical excellence.
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