The 25th annual Billboard Latin Music Awards delivered a night of major honors and unforgettable performances. The event took place Thursday at the James L. Knight Center in Miami. Celebrations included special recognitions for Bad Bunny, Elvis Crespo, and Laura Pausini.
The evening marked a significant return to the stage for Daddy Yankee. Dynamic performances and heartfelt acceptance speeches defined many of the show’s highlights.
Olga Tañón kicked off the awards with an energetic performance. The Puerto Rican singer, known as ‘La Mujer de Fuego,’ performed ‘La Gran Fiesta.’ Her merengue-infused opening featured a vibrant red dress and a celebratory stage setup.
Karol G won the Hot Latin Song Female Artist of the Year award. The Colombian artist humorously noted her trophy’s color matched her dress.
She shared, “What I am most grateful for today is that I always get nervous, because it means I don’t lose the capacity to be surprised.” Karol G then led the audience in an emotional a cappella rendition of ‘Si antes te hubiera conocido.’
Elvis Crespo was inducted into the Billboard Hall of Fame. The merengue artist dedicated his award to his mother, Irene. He recalled her giving him $5 for singing lessons every Friday in Río Piedras.
Crespo offered a powerful reflection before leaving the stage. He stated, “In the music industry, you make friends for life, thank you for believing in me.”
Peso Pluma received the Billboard Vanguard Award, presented by Kenia Os. The corridos tumbados singer expressed his delight at her presenting the honor.
He thanked all who support the corridos movement. Addressing Kenia Os, he said, “This beautiful woman has made me a better human being, boyfriend, and boss.” The couple shared a passionate kiss on stage.
Daddy Yankee made a triumphant return to the stage. The ‘Big Boss’ performed a Christian song, inviting everyone to “smile at life.” His performance featured a rooftop-themed set and ten dancers.
Ramón Ayala, known as Daddy Yankee, declared, “Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.” He extended congratulations and respect to his colleagues. He emphasized a greater prize: “the crown of life.”
He also distributed an “edifying word” on notes left on each seat. Daddy Yankee concluded his address by proclaiming, “And Christ is coming.” In February, he finalized his divorce from Mireddys González after nearly 30 years of marriage. The divorce included a dispute over corporate presidencies and financial assets.
Laura Pausini graced the Billboard stage with her iconic song ‘Mi historia entre tus dedos.’ The Italian singer then accepted the Icon Award.
Pausini, 51, delivered a moving speech praising the Latin community. She stated, “It makes me feel like a rare diamond, it deeply moves me and fills me with immense pride.” She added, “To be from Italy and at the same time feel so Latina is an enormous privilege and it is possible because you have allowed it.”
She celebrated the ability of Hispanic people to succeed globally. Pausini noted, “It’s incredible to be part of the history of Latin music. No matter how many barriers are put in front of us, we reach more corners of the world every time.” She concluded by acknowledging her own stubbornness and resilience. She sang ‘Víveme’ a cappella.
Legendary actress Rita Moreno, 93, presented Bad Bunny with the Latin Artist of the 21st Century Award. She started playfully, “Hello baby? You look good too, whole.”
Moreno spoke about the historical challenges faced by Latinos in the US entertainment industry. “When I started my career, being Latino in the United States meant facing barriers, prejudice, and many closed doors.” She added, “Opportunities were few, almost non-existent, and every small step forward, baby, was a victory.”
She highlighted Bad Bunny’s global impact. “Today I see an artist who takes the whole world. That same passion helped me never give up. It moves me from the heart to give you the award.”
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez, expressed deep respect and admiration for Moreno. He reflected on his journey, saying, “Every time I hear other artists express themselves about me that way, it gives me the confidence that being myself will always be a great decision.” He has aimed to discover who he is and what he represents since day one.
He noted that any artist at the awards could have received the honor. All present artists have contributed significantly to Latin culture and music. Later in the night, Bad Bunny also received the Artist of the Year award. He commented, “The most beautiful thing is that Olga Tañón gave it to me.”
