The world’s brightest Latin music stars collided last weekend at the Latin American Music Awards in Las Vegas. This year, the theme was “Somos Un Movimiento,” which showcased how Latin music and culture have permeated the mainstream. The award show made sure to highlight the rising Latin acts as well as recognize the new superstars and legends of our time. Here’s a recap of our favorite performances of the night.
Becky G Wins “Best Regional Mexican Collaboration”
Women were the big winners with Colombian superstar Karol G taking home eight awards. Mexican-American pop star Becky G followed her with four wins. She got particularly emotional when she was announced winner of Best Regional Mexican Collaboration for the song “Ya Acabó” with Marca MP. Becky G said she was proud to be able to represent her Mexican roots.
In a standout performance, she also performed her new single “Chanel” with corridos tumbados phenomenon Peso Pluma. The two artists shared great chemistry in their performance of the heartbreaking track.
Natti Natasha Dedicates Emotional Performance To Fiance
We saw Dominican superstar Natti Natasha also share an emotional moment on the stage. She hosted the awards alongside Julián Gil, Galilea Montijo, and Clarissa Molina. For her performance, she debuted a brand new song “La Falta Que Me Haces.” She dedicated the heartfelt ballad about missing someone to her fiancé Raphy Pina, who is currently incarcerated for charges of illegally possessing firearms. “For all the people that need this song, I didn’t know I needed it until the day we made it,” Natti Natasha said in Spanish. “If you’re watching this, Raphy, we all love you.”
Danna Paola Teases New Album
Mexican pop star Danna Paola was another highlight with her show-stopping performance of “XT4S1S.” This performance marked a transition in her career as she moves onto her next single “1 Trago.” In an exclusive interview with LATINA, Paola talked upcoming album. “I created a lot of songs that took inspiration from dark moments in my life,” she said. “These songs saved me.” She also confirmed that her sell-out XT4S1S Tour in Mexico will be coming soon to the U.S.
Bad Gyal, Chesca, and Young Miko Hit The Stage
The Latin American Music Awards also gave the spotlight to the next generation of women in Latin music. Spanish rapper Bad Gyal and Puerto Rican acts Chesca and Young Miko performed a set of their latest hits. Bad Gyal kicked off the performance with her addictive song “Chulo.” On the red carpet, she described her music as “fearless, strong, and risky.” Chesca followed with her steamy song “Easy” alongside Dalex. Young Miko rounded out the set with her swaggering banger “Lisa.” The openly queer artist performed her ode to women backed by a team of female dancers.
Chiquis Reclaims Her Throne
Mexican-American singer Chiquis performed her latest single “Soy Una Abeja Reina.” While wearing a crown, she had the crowd moving to her empowering banda anthem. In rehearsal, she said the song was leading “a new chapter in my life and career.” Chiquis promised a surprise for her fans this summer with the “Abeja Reina” theme. She added that will be launching another tour soon.
And More…
Carlos Vives accepting the Legacy Award at the 2023 Latin American Music Awards. Image courtesy of TelevisaUnivision
Mexican icon Pepe Aguilar received the Legacy Award from his daughter Ángela Aguilar. Colombian legend Carlos Vives was also bestowed the honor. Dominican-American pop star Prince Royce and Spanish singer David Bisbal both received the Pioneer Award for their 20-plus year trajectories.
The Latin AMAs aired live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Univision, UniMás, and Galavisión.
Lucas Villa is a freelance music contributor for LATINA. His work is also featured in Rolling Stone, Billboard, Teen Vogue, MTV News, and W Magazine.
