Last October, I had one of those pinch-me moments: I got to attend Billboard Latin Music Week. Amidst Miami’s head and humidity, I got an insider’s glimpse at the inner workings of the Latin music industry.
I was invited by my friend who works with Zumba Music (huge shout out to them!) and because of that, I got a close-up look at the Latin music world in action. I’m talking backstage passes, step-and-repeat moments, conversations with artists, and a front-row seat to panels and talks that dove deep into the heart of Latin music.
Latin Music On The Rise
What really stuck with me was how much the conversations focused on the growing influence of Latin music in the U.S.. You can feel it everywhere, from radio to TikTok, but hearing industry leaders talk about why it resonates globally was so inspiring. And as a Venezuelan, it gave me chills to see that they even had a panel dedicated to Venezuelan artists on the rise. ¡Qué orgullo! Watching my culture represented on such a global stage filled me with so much pride and reminded me that la música está en nuestra sangre.
Another thing that surprised me? How small the Latin music community actually is. Even though it has a massive worldwide fanbase, most of the power players are centered in Miami. It felt like a family reunion, just a small circle of people who are somehow driving this giant global movement.
The Star Of The Show
And of course… I have to talk about the performance that made my jaw drop: Elvis Crespo singing “Suavemente” live. 😍 That man still has it! His energy, his charisma, his ability to make an entire room get up and dance, it solidified why some songs and artists never fade. Honestly, I think some of the new generation should learn a thing or two from him about performance. Fue increíble, pura magia!
Walking away from Billboard Latin Music Week, I just felt so grateful. Grateful for the chance to be surrounded by such talent, grateful for the cultural pride it sparked in me, and grateful to witness up close how Latin music continues to take over the world. I loved every single moment and can’t wait to see where this wave of música Latina goes next.
