From significant career milestones to exciting new music releases, major announcements, and those little yet impactful moments, Billboard editors shine a spotlight on inspiring developments in Latin music. Here?s a roundup of the most noteworthy happenings in the Latin music industry this week.
Celebrating Shakira: ?En Barranquilla Se Baila Así? at Carnaval
In a heartfelt tribute to Shakira, her hometown of Barranquilla is preparing to honor the global superstar with a special celebration during the annual Carnaval de Barranquilla. Scheduled to kick off on March 1, this year?s festival embraces Shakira?s iconic phrase ?En Barranquilla se baila así? from her hit song ?Hips Don?t Lie? as its official slogan. On January 11, enthusiastic fans gathered at the Shakira statue to witness the unveiling of this year’s vibrant Carnaval imagery, marking a significant moment for both the artist and her community.
Expressing her gratitude, Shakira stated, ?This tribute touches my heart as a Barranquilla native and fills me with pride. It is an honor and a joy to be part of this in such a way. Since the day I was born, I have always felt incredibly proud to be from Barranquilla, and I always will be. We celebrate life here, and above all, we know how to celebrate! Let?s spread this energy to the entire world! Long live the Carnival, long live Barranquilla, its culture, and its people. Let?s show once again that this is how we dance in Barranquilla! Love you all!?
Shakira’s highly anticipated Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour will feature a stop in her beloved Barranquilla. Fans can check the official tour dates here to join in this celebratory experience.
Del Records Supports First Responders in L.A.
In response to the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles, Angel Del Villar, the CEO of Del Records, spearheaded a compassionate initiative on January 16 to provide meals for the brave firefighters, first responders, and support personnel stationed at their base camp located at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Teaming up with Tacos Bombero 408, a taco truck that traveled from San Jose, the effort resulted in over 1,000 fresh meals being served. This generous act was aimed at bringing hope and gratitude to those tirelessly battling the wildfires. Del Villar emphasized, ?It?s the least we can do for those putting their lives on the line for us.?
Kicking Off Fundraising with Karol G?s Special Merch
On Thursday, Karol G unveiled a special merchandise line dedicated to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, with all proceeds earmarked for wildfire relief efforts. This exclusive merch includes a stylish $120 hoodie and a $40 tote bag, both now available for purchase here. The initiative not only showcases her creativity but also her commitment to giving back to the community in need.
Reflecting on her connection to the city, Karol G shared, ?LA, you are in my heart. At Con Cora Foundation, we have joined forces with I Scream Color to create two pieces that represent solidarity with those affected by one of the most devastating wildfires in California?s history. 100% of the artists’ proceeds will be donated to the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles to support those impacted. This is an act of love and gratitude for a city that means so much to me and to all of us. Together, we can make a difference. Let?s unite and show Los Angeles that it?s in our hearts.?
Latin Artists Unite for Community Support Amid Wildfire Crisis
In a powerful show of solidarity with the Los Angeles community, numerous Latin artists including Alejandro Fernández, Maná, Peso Pluma, Chiquis, and Fuerza Regida have stepped up to assist those who have been deeply affected by the ongoing wildfire devastation. Over the past week, thousands of homes and structures have been destroyed, leading to the evacuation of more than 100,000 residents, and tragically, over 20 lives have been lost in the L.A. area alone. This collective effort demonstrates the strength and resilience of the Latin music community in times of crisis.
To learn more about how Latin artists are helping those impacted by the wildfires, click here. Additionally, for health alerts, evacuation updates, and vital shelter information as the wildfire battle continues, please visit L.A. County?s emergency website. Musicians and industry professionals affected by the fires can find details about available assistance here.
Blessd Seizes the Opportunity in Football Investment
This week, Blessd made headlines by becoming the largest investor in the Legacy Sports Partners fund, which has successfully acquired the Danish football club Vendsyssel FF. The Colombian artist expressed his excitement, stating, ?I am beyond thrilled to take on this incredible project with Vendsyssel FF. Football has always been a passion of mine, and being able to connect it with my journey in music is a dream come true. Together, we will create something truly special for both music and football fans, uniting the best of two worlds ? America and Europe ? enhancing the club?s culture, and reaching new heights in Denmark and beyond.?
The inaugural friendly match post-acquisition will occur in Medellín, Colombia, against Atlético Nacional, marking an exciting new chapter as part of the preseason and the prestigious Copa Bendita.
