In the fall of 2000, the Latin GRAMMY Awards made their television debut live on CBS, making history as the first prime-time bilingual broadcast to air on network TV.

The ceremony arrived right on time: the "Latin Explosion" was just beginning, and everyone was taking notice. Marc Anthony had risen to No. 3 on Billboard’s Hot 100 with his smash hit, "I Need To Know (Dímelo)," Ricky Martin’s 1999 performance at the GRAMMY Awards catapulted him to international success, and Carlos Santana was in the midst of a comeback with his No. 1 collaboration "Smooth," with Rob Thomas. Jennifer Lopez, Enrique Iglesias, and rising crossover star Shakira were all adding fuel to the fire. 

It was this rising movement that had prompted the establishment of The Latin Recording Academy in 1997 and, by 2000, the idea of having their own ceremony seemed like a no-brainer. Hosted by a rotating cast of stars including Gloria Estefan, Jennifer Lopez, Andy García, Jimmy Smits, and Antonio Banderas, the show was broadcast to nearly 9 million viewers. And while it may have been expensive to orchestrate, then-president of The Recording Academy, Micahel Greene, told Billboard that it was "the best investment the academy ever made." 

Since then, the show has become known as the Biggest Night In Latin Music, the ceremony regularly brings together artists and fans all over the world, drawing in 18.9 million viewers in 2024. This year, the Latin GRAMMY Awards will be held on Nov. 14, broadcast from Miami, Florida.

Read more: 2024 Latin GRAMMYs: See The Full Nominations List

Ahead of the 25th Annual ceremony, revisit 25 songs that have defined the Latin GRAMMYs. As you read, press play on the playlists below.

"Oye Cómo Va" — Ricky Martin (2000) 

Just a few months before the Latin GRAMMYs’ inaugural ceremony, the Latin music world suffered the loss of Tito Puente, the legendary Puerto Rican bandleader and composer. To honor his legacy, Ricky Martin kicked off the show with an electric rendition of Puentes’ iconic 1962 cha-cha-chá song, "Oye Cómo Va," (later covered by Santana to great success in 1971), as part of a medley performed alongside Celia Cruz and Gloria Estefan.  

It had only been a year since Martin had taken the world by storm with "Livin’ la Vida Loca" — the lead single of his English-language debut, and the track that helped the "Latin explosion" of the 2000s take off. With this performance, Martin proved that while he was chasing down crossover success, he would always celebrate his roots. 

"Fíjate Bien" — Juanes (2001) 

It might be hard to imagine a time before Juanes was an internationally-renowned Latin rockstar. But back in 2001, the Colombian singer was a relatively new solo act, having disbanded his rock band, Ekhymosis in 1998. His debut album, Fíjate Bien, didn’t make waves on the charts outside of Colombia, but it did catch the attention of The Latin Recording Academy. The singer entered the ceremony with seven Latin GRAMMY nominations, and left with three wins, including Best New Artist. 

His success that night prompted him to head straight back into the studio with more than 40 demos for producer Gustavo Santaolalla. These sessions would eventually become Un Día Normal — Juanes’ international breakthrough. To date, Juanes holds the record for second-most Latin GRAMMYs won, with 27 total. 

"La Negra Tiene Tumbao" — Celia Cruz  (2002) 

Sporting a gravity-defying white and blue wig and matching sapphire-sequined gown, Celia Cruz delivered her final performance at the award show in style. That night, the 76-year-old salsa superstar was up for five awards, taking home Best Salsa Album for her release, La Negra Tiene Tumbao. 

Its title track of the same name fused the music she was most known for with reggae and hip-hop, and marked her last major hit before her death the following year in 2003. With a dazzling laugh and a booming voice, Cruz accepted her award saying, "Damas y caballeros, excuse my English, but I love you," exiting the  stage with her signature catchphrase: "¡Azúcar!" 

"En el 2000" — Natalia Lafourcade (2003) 

Though she didn’t take home an award in 2003, Mexican singer/songwriter Natalia Lafourcade left her mark with her imaginative and funky breakout single, "En el 2000." The accompanying album, her self-titled debut, gained critical acclaim for its combination of alternative pop, bossa nova, and Latin rock sounds.

Up for three awards that year, including Best New Artist, Lafourcade went on to become the most-awarded woman in Latin GRAMMYs history, with 17 awards to date. 

Read more: Catching Up With Natalia Lafourcade: How Togetherness, Improvisation & The Element Of Surprise Led To Her Most Exquisite Album

"Casi" — Soraya (2004) 

After being diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer in 2000, the Colombian American singer made her triumphant return to the music industry with her fourth album. The self-titled record featured two of her biggest hits, "Solo Por Ti" and "Casi." Each of the album’s 12 tracks were written, produced, and arranged by the singer, earning her the first-ever Latin GRAMMY for Best Singer-Songwriter Album, and her first and only Latin GRAMMY. 

After receiving her award, Soraya said, "I’m standing here as a fighter … hopefully paving the way for many other female singer-songwriters." 

"Gasolina" — Daddy Yankee (2005) 

It would be difficult to overstate the global impact of Daddy Yankee’s megahit, "Gasolina" — the first reggaeton song to be nominated for a Latin GRAMMY for Record Of The Year, and the first to be inducted into the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress. 

While the song ultimately lost out to Alejandro Sanz’s "Tu No Tienes Alma," "Gasolina" became one of the most influential Latin music tracks of all time. The single helped introduce a global audience to reggaeton, kickstarting a larger movement within Latin music, and opening the door to a generation of young musicians who came after it. 

Read more: Songbook: Celebrating Daddy Yankee's Legendary Three-Decade Reggaeton Reign

"La Tortura" — Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (2006) 

By 2006, Shakira had already cemented herself as a mainstay in Latin music, so it was only a matter of time before she began to break records at the Latin GRAMMYs. At the 7th Annual awards, she became the first female artist to win in the three major categories: Record Of The Year, Album Of The Year, and Song Of The Year.

Building on the success of her English-language debut, Laundry Service, the Colombian singer returned in 2005 with Fijación Oral Vol. 1, which became the highest-selling Latin pop album of the decade in the U.S. She teamed up with Alejandro Sanz to perform their song, "La Tortura," featuring some of her signature hypnotizing belly dancing moves. 

Read more: Every Year Is The Year Of Shakira: 10 Songs That Prove She's Always Been A Superstar

"Espacio Sideral" — Jesse & Joy (2007) 

Mexico City-born sibling duo Jesse & Joy made a splash in 2006 with their debut single, "Espacio Sideral." The guitar-driven pop rock song about being lovesick went gold in Mexico, and broke through the Top 40 of Billboard’s Top Latin Songs Chart. The song gained enough traction to earn the duo a coveted win for Best New Artist. 

"No Llores" — Gloria Estefan, José Feliciano, and Carlos Santana (2008) 

Following a rousing performance of her songs, "Mi Tierra" and "Oye Mi Canto," 2008 Person Of The Year Gloria Estefan amped up the energy even more by bringing out fellow Latin icons José Feliciano and Carlos Santana. 

It was a fitting collaboration. Estefan brought the sounds of Cuba and Miami to the rest of the world, following in the footsteps of artists like Feliciano (himself credited with being one of the first Latin American acts to find crossover success in the English-speaking market of the 1960s) and Santana — whose blend of American rock and blues with Latin American jazz made him an international success in the 1970s. 

Juan Gabriel — "El Noa Noa"  (2009) 

Juan Gabriel may have been the one being honored as The Latin Recording Academy’s Person Of TheYear in 2009, but it was "El Divo de Juárez" who gifted the audience with a marathon performance lasting for almost 40 minutes during the ceremony in Las Vegas. 

Celebrating a prolific career spanning three decades, Gabriel strutted around the stage, singing hit after hit alongside mariachis and folklórico dancers donning their colorful skirts. By his final song, "El Noa Noa," the awards ceremony had been transformed into an all-out party that had kept the audience on their feet, and pushed the show nearly 30 minutes past its original three-hour duration. 

"Por Qué No Le Calas / Ya Lo Sé" — Jenni Rivera (2010) 

In what would be Jenni Rivera's final Latin GRAMMYs performance before her tragic death in 2012, the Mexican American "Diva de la Banda" gave it her all with a mashup of "Por Qué No Le Calas" and "Ya Lo Sé," from her 2009 LP, La Gran Señora. After cementing herself as a powerful female voice in the male-dominated world of banda music, Rivera pivoted to mariachi for the album. 

It was a risk, especially considering how few women had managed to break through and reach commercial success in the genre, but it was one that paid off.  The album peaked at No. 2 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums Chart, and became the best-selling Regional Mexican Album of 2010. 

Read more: Jenni Rivera Essentials: 10 Songs That Embody The Late Banda Music Icon's Rebellious Spirit

"Latinoamérica" — Calle 13  (2011) 

Puerto Rico’s preeminent hip-hop duo Calle 13 walked into the 12th Annual Latin GRAMMYs already having made history with a whopping 10 nominations for their fourth studio album, Entren Los Que Quieran, and its fifth single, "Latinoamérica." Known for their provocative and thoughtful lyrics that often tackle social justice and politics, the track tells the story of Latin America, weaving together stories of corruption, resistance, and pride. 

Supported by the Los Angeles Symphony, Residente and Visitante delivered a stirring version of the song, with Residente dedicating the performance to all of the Latin Americans who were in the room, or watching at home. "Transport yourself to your neighborhoods, to your streets, to your roots, the smell of your countries, and feel it right here in your chest." 

"Déjenme Llorar" — Carla Morrison (2012)

Without the backing of a major label, Mexican singer/songwriter Carla Morrison still managed to nab two wins for Best Alternative Music Album and Best Alternative Song for her debut LP, Déjenme  Llorar and single of the same name. But it was her nomination in two of the major award categories — Album Of The Year and Song Of The Year — that turned heads.

With a plaintive voice that complements Morrison’s simple but emotive lyrics, the song helped propel the album to reach platinum status in Mexico, and signaled a rising shift in the power and influence of indie artists within the Latin music ecosystem. 

"Volví a Nacer" — Carlos Vives (2013)

A decade earlier, the Colombian singer had been on top of the world. His 2001 album, Déjame Entrar, secured him his first GRAMMY Award for Best Traditional Tropical Latin Album, reached the peak of Billboard’s Latin Albums chart, and went double platinum in the U.S., propelling him to a steady string of sold-out shows. But after he was unable to reach a new deal with his label in 2004, the singer went on an extended hiatus. 

Ten years later, thanks to a new record deal with Sony Music Latin, Vives staged an impressive comeback with Corazón Profundo in 2013. The album’s lead single, "Volvi a Nacer," (Born Again) shot to No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs Chart. When he made his return to the Latin GRAMMYs, he left with three awards, including Song Of The Year and Best Tropical Song. 

"Bailando" —Enrique Iglesias featuring Descemer Bueno and Gente de Zona (2014)

A truly global hit, Spanish crossover success Enrique Iglesias released no less than four versions of "Bailando" in three different languages, charting in more than 50 countries, going triple platinum, and beating out Shakira’s record for the longest-running single to top the Hot Latin Songs Chart by staying at No. 1 for 41 weeks.  

Unable to accept the award in person while he was touring in Paris, the singer released a pre-taped performance of the song to close the show, during which he won three awards, including Song Of The Year. 

Read more: Enrique Iglesias Forever: 10 Songs That Prove He's A Latin Pop Hero

"Somos Más Americanos" — Maná and Los Tigres Del Norte (2015)

Two of Mexico’s most celebrated acts joined forces during the 16th Annual Latin GRAMMYs to remind the Latino community of the importance of using their voices ahead of the upcoming 2016 election. 

Performing Los Tigres Del Norte’s "Somos Más Americanos," an immigrant anthem that includes lyrics like "Ya me gritaron mil veces que me regrese a mi tierra …Yo no crucé la frontera, la frontera me cruzó." ("They’ve shouted at me a thousand times to go back to my country … I didn’t cross the border, the border crossed me." Met with rousing applause, the groups rounded out their performance by raising up a sign that read, "Latinos unidos no voten por los racistas" (Latinos united don’t vote for racists).  

"Olvídame y Pega la Vuelta" — Marc Anthony and Jennifer López (2016) 

Two years after the couple divorced, Marc Anthony and Jennifer López surprised their fans by announcing their reunion — their musical reunion. In 2016, the two came together to record a cover of the 1982 song, "Olvídame y Pega la Vuelta" by Argentinian sibling duo Pimpinela. 

The duo performed their fourth duet together live for the first time at the 17th Annual Latin GRAMMYs, and their palpable chemistry as performers made it difficult to remember their split. Fiery, dramatic, and full of passion, the former lovers drove the crowd into a frenzy with their theatrical rendition of the song, which earned the praise of Pimpinela. 

"Despacito" — Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee (2017) 

Just a little over a decade after Daddy Yankee ushered in a new era of Latin music with "Gasolina," Luis Fonsi and "Despacito" put him back on top of the world again. The hit that wouldn’t quit, "Despacito" tied with Mariah Carey for the longest-running No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, became the first Latin song to achieve diamond status, and for three years remained the most-viewed YouTube video of all time. 

Thanks to a remix version with Justin Bieber (giving the artist his first Latin GRAMMY), the song led to a new wave of investment in Spanish-language music and sparked a massive rise in collaborations with Latin artists. Its success brought reggaeton and Latin pop to the forefront of the U.S., raising the profile of other Latin acts like Maluma, Ozuna, and Bad Bunny. 

Read more: Watch Luis Fonsi accept the Latin GRAMMY for Record Of The Year

"Malamente" — Rosalía (2018) 

A concept album centered around a tragic 13th Century Occitan romance novel might not sound like the classic makings of a hit record, but with the avant-garde creativity and skillful flamenco-trained vocals of Spanish popstar Rosalía, El mal querer was destined for greatness. 

The album’s lead single, "Malamente," blended flamenco, hip-hop, and música urbana, going viral on social media and catching the world’s attention. Unpredictable and innovative, Rosalía emerged as a new, exciting voice in Latin music, earning five nominations at her first appearance at the Latin GRAMMYs. 

Watch: Run The World: How Rosalía Became An International Superstar And Production Powerhouse

"Volver, Volver" — Vicente, Alejandro, and Alex Fernández (2019)

A masterclass performance delivered by three generations of talent, the Fernández family took over the Latin GRAMMYs in 2019 with a medley of ranchera and mariachi music. Joined by his son Alejandro Fernández, and his grandson, Alex Fernández, Vicente Fernández demonstrated exactly why he earned the title "El Ídolo de México" (The Idol of Mexico). 

Capping off their set with Vicente’s "Volver Volver," the song that made him a household name across Latin America, the trio’s voices blended beautifully. The audience roared with applause, chanting "otra, otra" as Vicente accepted the President’s Award. 

Read more: Vicente, Alejandro And Alex Fernández Steal the Latin GRAMMYs With Three-Generational Performance

"Yo Perreo Sola" — Bad Bunny (2020)

Amid the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, the nominees and performers at the 2020 Latin GRAMMYs had to get creative with their sets. With each of them performing remotely from different locations across the world, Bad Bunny — nominated for the second-most awards that night, behind Rosalía — took viewers on a joy ride through the streets of San Juan. 

While most of the world was shut down, the Puerto Rican rapper reminded everyone why he deserved his newfound title as the "King of Latin Trap," breaking through language barriers to release the highest-charting Spanish album on the Billboard 200 with YHLMDLG and becoming Spotify’s most-streamed artist in 2020. "Yo Perreo Sola" became one of the defining songs of the summer, an inescapable reggaeton bop that won a Latin GRAMMY Award for Best Reggaeton Performance. 

Read more: How Bad Bunny Took Over The World: From Urbano Upstart To History-Making GRAMMY Nominee

"Patria Y Vida" — Descemer Bueno, Yotuel, Maykel Osorbo, Beatriz Luengo, El Funky, and Gente de Zona (2021)

In a category dominated by major hitmakers like Tainy, Ricky Martin, Carlos Vives, Maluma, and Rauw Alejandro, 2021’s Song Of The Year award went to a track that spoke to something much bigger than chart success. Throughout protests in Cuba in the summer of 2021, "Patria y Vida" gave voice to the people’s frustrations with their government, becoming a rallying cry for their cause. 

Subverting Fidel Castro’s slogan, "Patria o muerte" ("Country or death"), the song speaks to food shortages, authoritarianism, and human rights abuses. Banned in Cuba, the song led to the arrest of Osorbo, who Romero shouted out during his acceptance speech, dedicating the award to a free Cuba, and to all Latina mothers who fight for the dreams of their children. 

"Un Nuevo Amanecer" — Angela Álvarez (2022) 

There was more than one reason why the Best New Artist race made history at the Latin GRAMMYs in 2022. Not only was it declared a tie between Mexican musician Silvana Estrada and Cuban American songwriter Angela Álvarez, but, at 95 years old, Álvarez marked the oldest nominee to be considered in the category. 

After years of writing and performing music for her friends and family, Álvarez didn’t begin playing in public until she was 90 years old at the Avalon nightclub in Hollywood. Encouraged by her grandson to finally record her songs, Álvarez released her debut album of Cuban standards and original songs in 2021. In her emotional acceptance speech, dedicating her award to those who haven’t yet realized their dreams, saying, "While life is difficult, there’s always a way, and with faith and love, you can achieve it, I promise you. It’s never too late."

"Un x100to" — Grupo Frontera and Bad Bunny (2023) 

While Shakira and Bizarrap’s viral music session may have taken the world by storm in 2023, the 24th Annual Latin GRAMMYs belonged to Edgar Barrera. Working behind-the-scenes as a songwriter and producer, the Mexican American talent has been the architect behind countless hits, working with some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Peso Pluma, Karol G, Bad Bunny, Christian Nodal, Shakira, Marc Anthony, Fuerza Regina, and more. 

In 2023, he helped build on the budding Regional Mexican boom by orchestrating the chart-topping collaboration between Grupo Frontera and Bad Bunny, "Un x100to," which marked the group’s first top five hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Leading the night with an impressive 13 nominations, Barrera picked up the award for Best Regional Mexican Song, Producer Of The Year, and snagged the first Songwriter Of The Year award.  

Read more: Edgar Barrera, The Songwriter Behind 2023's Top Latin Hits, Shares How He Remains Grounded Amidst Success

"Mi Ex Tenía Razón" — Karol G (2024)

Six years after winning Best New Artist at the Latin GRAMMYs in 2018, there’s no denying that Karol G is the head "Bichota" in charge. She’s taken the reins as one of the leading voices in a rising tide of young female artists dominating reggaeton and Latin pop. Her 2024 mixtape, Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season), built on the success of her Latin GRAMMY Award-winning album, Mañana Será Bonito — the first all-Spanish language album by a female artist to debut at the top of the Billboard 200 — which earned her a historic win as the first woman to win Best Música Urbana Album at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards. 

The mixtape’s second single, "Mi Ex Tenía Razón," is an homage to one of the Colombian singer’s biggest musical inspirations: the "Queen of Tejano," Selena Quintanilla. Delivering her own version of Selena’s trademark Tejano-cumbia fusion, Karol G sings about an ex who told her she would never find someone like him, only to end up with someone much better. The song is up for two Latin GRAMMY Awards, including Song Of The Year.

One would have expected plenty of pomp and circumstance as the Latin GRAMMYs celebrated their 25th year anniversary. But there were no lengthy speeches or self-congratulatory videos during the Nov. 14 telecast.

This year, the telecast focused on the things that matter: saluting the magic of undying genres like salsa, rock and bossa nova. Honoring the legacies of such Latin American trendsetters as Carlos Vives and Juan Luis Guerra. Giving artists a carefully curated space where to showcase their craft and inspiration.

From the stark cinematic moods of reggaetón to the healing warmth of Afro-Caribbean roots and the bold expansion of música mexicana, here are 10 of the most exciting celebratory moments from the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs.

The Music Of Carlos Vives Is A Priceless Cultural Treasure

Colombian singer/songwriter Carlos Vives was The Latin Recording Academy's 2024 Person Of The Year — a fitting recognition to his groundbreaking fusion of the accordion-heavy vallenato music of his land with rock, pop and even reggae. Vives' path of innovation began with the 1993 album Clásicos de la Provincia, and, like the Latin GRAMMYs, his career has evolved much over the last 25 years.

The singer kicked off the telecast with a career-spanning medley of hits such as "Fruta Fresca" — a rollicking gem off his 1999 classic El Amor de mi Tierra — and the more recent "La Bicicleta." At the end of his performance, he was joined by an enthusiastic group of fellow singers, including Juanes and Camilo. This brisk summary of his creative genius underscored his innate ability to connect with the essence of Latin American culture.

Read More: Watch: Carlos Vives Performs "La Bicicleta," "Robarte Un Beso" & More At The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs

The Moody Soundscapes Of Urbano Continue To Expand

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Jagged regaetón beats and ominous trap atmospherics are a natural component of the Latin pop DNA. But the urbano universe continues to grow, experimenting with novel song structures while incorporating references to other genres.

Early on in the telecast, three contemporary stars joined forces for a segment that showcased the ever evolving side of urbano. Eladio Carrión ("Mama's Boy") Quevedo ("Columbia") and Myke Towers ("La Falda") combined their proven commercial appeal with a sophisticated vision.

A True Master Never Stops Learning His Craft

Let's just say that this year's ceremony was a memorable evening for perennial Latin GRAMMY favorite Juan Luis Guerra. The 67-year-old singer/songwriter won the coveted Record Of The Year and Album Of The Year awards, and cherished his Dominican roots in his acceptance speech.

But Guerra also let the music speak for itself in a mesmerizing performance of Record Of The Year winning track "MAMBO 23." A stunning display of craftsmanship, it begins with a dembow beat, incorporates electronic loops, and also switches between the haunting qualities of spiraling bachata lines and the raucous party vibe of traditional merengue — all within the same song. Clearly, Guerra continues to learn and further refine his musical lexicon with each new project.

Read More: Juan Luis Guerra Sweeps The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs With 'Radio Güira'

Three Mexican Legends Are Sorely Missed

Alejandro Fernández | Photo: Getty Images for The Latin Recording Academy

There was a reflective quality to this year's telecast, which included tributes to classic genres and luminaries of the past. Perhaps the most poignant, though, was the segment dedicated to three late giants of Mexican music: Juan Gabriel, José José and Vicente Fernández.

The delicate sadness of Juan Gabriel's "Hasta Que Te Conocí" (performed by Reik and Leonel García), the apocalyptic balada pathos of José José's "El Triste" as a duet (a duet with Carlos Rivera and David Bisbal), and the unapologetic joy of Vicente Fernández's "No Me Sé Rajar" (fittingly, by his son Alejandro) — illustrated the monumental sway that these masters still hold in the Latin music zeitgeist.

Salsa Lives On — And It Grooves Like Crazy

While it is true that the heyday of salsa took place during the '70s and '80s, this is a genre that simply refuses to grow stale. And to prove it, a parade of stars delivered a dazzling tribute to the tenets of salsa fever.

Venezuela's Oscar D'León offered a swinging reading of his 1974 classic "Llorarás," while Colombia's Grupo Niche had the audience chanting along to the chorus of "Una Aventura." Tito Nieves and young stars Luis Figueroa and Christian Alicea were also present, while the salsa romántica royalty of Marc Anthony and La India revived their '90s mega-hit "Vivir Lo Nuestro" in stunning, dynamic form.

Read More: Watch: Marc Anthony & Salsa All-Stars Tito Nieves, Grupo Niche, Oscar D'Leon & More Celebrate The Genre At The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs

Latin Pop Thrives On Emotional Connection

After winning three Latin GRAMMYs last year on the strength of the genre defining Mañana Será Bonito — including the coveted Album Of The Year — KAROL G added another award to her collection on the 2024 telecast. The Colombian star's eclectic 2023 mixtape, Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season), won in the Best Urban Music Album category, at a moment when KAROL G is celebrated as one of the world's biggest pop stars.

As she collected the Latin GRAMMY, she focused on the things that matter. "This is about the love that I share with my fans," said a visibly moved KAROL. "And my family, which makes my life so much easier. Without them, I wouldn't have my mental health." The same feeling of emotional openness permeates the songs in both Mañana Será Bonito projects.

This Is Not Your Parents' Música Mexicana

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It is definitely not a coincidence that música mexicana is experiencing a massive wave of popularity. The charisma and musical talent of stars like Peso Pluma, Grupo Frontera and Fuerza Régida is augmented by the vision of innovators such as Carín León, who blends effortlessly the folk roots of his native Sonora with cool touches of country and blues.

Introduced by Julieta Venegas and Mon Laferte, León performed "Despídase Bien" — the ending track of his extraordinary 2024 album, Boca Chueca, Vol. 1 — backed by a full band and choir. A thorny electric guitar solo and rousing gospel vocals added gravitas to a song that is Mexican to the core, but does not hesitate to venture out of the box in search of true emotion.

The Old Bossa Nova Classics Are Indestructible

There were no sassy baile funk riddims when Brazilian stars Anitta and Tiago Iorc joined forces for a couple of songs in a dimly lit section of the stage. Instead, the duo launched into a fragile, understated version of Anitta's "Mil Veces," backed only by acoustic guitar and the diva's gorgeous voice.

This intimate moment was followed by "Mas Que Nada" — the whimsical 1963 tune by Jorge Ben that turned Sérgio Mendes and his band Brasil '66 into one of the architects of the bossa nova movement. Mendes passed away in September of this year, and the luminous interpretation by Anitta and Iorc served as the most elegant tribute possible.

Read More: Watch: Anitta & Tiago Iorc Team Up For "Mil Veces" & A Beautiful Tribute To Sérgio Mendes At The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs

Visceral Rock n Roll Will Never Go Out Of Style

One of the most intense moments of the telecast lasted less than two minutes — but will stay in the mind of anyone who ever prophesied the death of rock.

Hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, The Warning — a trio made up by sisters Daniela, Alejandra and Paulina Villarreal Vélez — delivered a welcome jolt of rock 'n'roll with a ferocious version of their hit "Qué Más Quieres." The performance was a reminder of how much raucous fun a trio of guitar, bass, drums, and gutsy vocals can generate. And yes, Latin rock is in excellent health, thank you.

Read More: Watch: The Warning Bring Hard Rock Power To The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs With "Qué Más Quieres"

At The End Of The Day, It's All About The Songs

As is often the case with Latin GRAMMY darling Jorge Drexler, the Uruguayan troubadour had some deep thoughts to share when he received the Song Of The Year honor for the exquisite "Derrumbe" — a non-album single he released in February of this year.

"This is madness," Drexler said after exchanging a hug with Juanes, who announced the winner. He pointed out that he hails from a very small country, and that "Derrumbe" itself was a sad and short song — una cancioncita, he called it.

He thanked the Latin Recording Academy for healing his chronic imposter syndrome and proving that a delicate, unassuming tune like his could win. Then again, that's one of the main missions of the Latin GRAMMYs: to acknowledge the power of a great song to inspire and transform.

The Latin music community is buzzing with excitement following a week of events leading up to the 25th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards. Held at Miami's Kaseya Center on Nov. 14, the 2024 GRAMMYs showcased the best and the brightest in global Latin sounds.

In the lead-up to The Biggest Night In Latin Music, a series of festivities offered a rare glimpse into the heart of Latin music’s vibrant culture. Latin GRAMMY Week brought artists, producers, and fans together on star-studded red carpets and intimate industry events — each of which was electric with anticipation, celebration, and reflection. 

Read more: 2024 Latin GRAMMYs: See The Full Winners & Nominations List

Continue celebrating 25 years of Latin Music excellence with a glimpse behind the scenes at some of the unforgettable moments that have made this week in Miami one to remember. 

Leading Ladies Got Their Flowers

One of the first events of Latin GRAMMY week was the 8th edition of the Leading Ladies in Entertainment, a heartfelt celebration of women who have made significant contributions to the arts and entertainment world.

The event was hosted by Latin GRAMMY-nominated artist Becky G (who also performed at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs) and was held inside inside the Loews Hotel. Portraits of honorees Ana Rosa Santiago, Vivir Quintana, Julieta Venegas and Diana Rodríguez were displayed on elegant arches draped in peach and gold. A warmth and intensity buzzed throughout the room, which was amplified by Becky G's encouragement. 

Each honoree's speech reflected the event's theme of elevating women and inspiring the next generation of female leaders. Quintana's powerful speech shared sage wisdom with aspiring music professionals in the room. “You absolutely do not have to change anything about yourself. Just work on your talent, be who you are, and follow your inner compass always,” she told the crowd, sparking a standing ovation. 

In a sweet touch to the already outstanding celebration, attendees were invited to create personalized bouquets. The gesture left honorees and guests alike feeling empowered and appreciated, with the evening both symbolically and quite literally giving everyone their flowers for their contributions to Latin music and culture.

Nominees "Swam" With The Big Fish

The Latin GRAMMY Awards do more than recognize artistic excellence — they invite nominees into a circle of industry peers who celebrate each other's achievements. At the Latin GRAMMY Nominee Reception, this vibrant community bonded over a deep appreciation for the artistry, dedication, and hard work it takes to earn this peer-voted honor.

The crowd at the Frost Science Museum’s Ocean Gallery was a mix of first-time Latin GRAMMY nominees such as Latin Mafia and Carlos Rivera, international stars such as Alok, and recently-announced nominees for the 2025 GRAMMYs.  Producers and collaborators who work with J Noa, Peso Pluma, Residente, Anitta and Kali Uchis were also in attendance. Guests represented a range of genres and disciplines: violinists, songwriters, DJs, salsa musicians, and even the singing clowns of Payasitas Nifu Nifa, who make children’s music, mingled energetically. 

Nominees proudly donned their medallions, capturing this pivotal career moment on the red carpet and posing in front of a giant, golden GRAMMY. The reception featured a stunning aquarium view, and guests could watch the fish, sharks, and stingrays swimming peacefully above them and snapped more photos. The aquarium was a fitting scene: this year’s class of nominees certainly got here by making waves in the music industry.

The Future Sounded Bright As Rising Stars Hit The Stage 

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Held at Miami Beach’s Faena Forum and presented by Mastercard and Bank of America, the third annual Best New Artist Showcase brought an exciting spotlight to the future of Latin music. Over a performance-filled day, each of the seven Best New Artist nominees brought their unique flavor to the stage.

From Nicolle Horbath’s fresh popteño style to 13-year-old Kevin Aguilar’s heartfelt mariachi and corridos, every performance showcased a captivating fusion of genres. The crowd was especially energized when the three-piece girl group DARUMAS delivered an electrifying rock cover of Whitney Houston’s "I Wanna Dance with Somebody," getting everyone on their feet.

Other standout performances included Agris, Cacá Magalhães, Os Garotins, Íñigo Quintero, Sofi Saar, and Ela Taubert. Ultimately, it was Ela Taubert who took home the Latin GRAMMY on Thursday night, and she closed out the week with an emotional performance of her hit "¿Cómo Pasó?" alongside Joe Jonas at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs. 

This showcase not only highlighted the diverse talent shaping the future of Latin music but also gave attendees an unforgettable opportunity to experience the next generation of superstars up close.

Carlos Vives' Life & Influence Was Fêted

The annual Latin GRAMMY Person Of The Year Year celebration honored Colombian artist and philanthropist Carlos Vives. The annual event drew a crowd of about 2,000 attendees to the Miami Beach Convention Center, including legends in Latin music and the next generation of stars.

Guests arrived in ornate attire, enjoying drinks and capturing memories with the Glambot’s interactive photo experience. Among the star-studded crowd were Camilo, Grupo Frontera, Rico Love, Aymee Nuviola, AleMor, and many more. The mayor of Miami also took the stage to offer a few heartfelt words of appreciation for Vives’ contributions. 

Read more: Carlos Vives, The 2024 Latin Recording Academy Person Of The Year, On The Colombia Music & Culture That Made Him

The evening culminated in a historic moment when six previous Latin GRAMMY Person Of The Year honorees gathered to pay tribute to Vives, a powerful salute to his legacy and impact on the Latin music community. Onstage at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs, Carlos Vives was saluted by 2023 MusiCares Person Of The Year Jon Bon Jovi.

Somos Familia

In collaboration with the Recording Academy’s Florida Chapter,BMI and Rebeleon Entertainment, Latin music producers and artists gathered to celebrate in true Miami fashion — with a party. 

At the Los Producers event, attendees filled the venue’s balconies for the best views, while Latin GRAMMY nominees such as Cimafunk, Agris, Latin Mafia, and Trooko were spotted among the crowd. Guests danced and mingled to a mix of '80s classics and rock, all delivered in a Spanglish blend that had the crowd singing along. But the night truly came alive during a series of energetic performances from the likes of five-time Latin GRAMMY winner Luis Fonsi, The Warning, and Bruses.

Prior to taking the stage, Fonsi and his bandmates shared a sweet moment. The group sang "Happy Birthday" and brought out a cake for their guitarist, exemplifying the tight-knit family bond that defines the Latin music community. 

GRAMMY U Gained On The Ground Experience 

Throughout the week, over 75 GRAMMY U members volunteered on the talent team escorting artists such as Gloria Estefan and DARUMAS.

Florida Chapter Member Amy Torres shared her experience: "My dream has always been to work in the Latin music industry so this is a dream come true. This week, I’ve seen a lot of artists I’ve admired growing up and made connections both within GRAMMY U and outside of the organization." 

Patience Murray, a non-student GRAMMY U Member and singer/songwriter based in Florida, described GRAMMY Week as a "mind-blowing experience." "Being able to witness a music event of this caliber and magnitude felt like a once-in-a-lifetime manifestation exercise, and I'm grateful to have seen the stages I dream to one day perform on," she said, adding that her favorite part of the week was connecting with other GRAMMY U members. 

"I have gained so much respect for the talent teams who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every show looks effortless and enjoyable for the fans," Murray added.

2024 Latin GRAMMY Week was the definitive celebration of music's power to connect and inspire. As Latin music cements its place on the global stage, it’s clear that these artists are not only shaping the future of the industry but also fostering a greater sense of shared identity that transcends borders. 

The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs marked 25 years of Latin music excellence with a gala evening in Miami, one of the world capitals for the Latin music industry. Replete with dazzling performances from legends and rising acts, tributes and tearful acceptance speeches, the 25th Annual Latin GRAMMYs was certainly one for the books.

In an evening with many leading lights, onelegend stood out as the night’s star: singer, songwriter and musician Juan Luis Guerra.

Guerra already had two dozen Latin GRAMMYs on his CV — as well as three GRAMMYs — but his run at this year’s Latin GRAMMYs netted several new pieces of hardware. His honors included the award Album Of The Year for Radio Güira, the inventive 2023 concept EP released with his band 4.40, and Record Of The Year for "Mambo 23," a hyper-speed merengue epic from the EP. Radio Güira also took the prize for Best Merengue/Bachata Album, while "Mambo 23" also won for Best Tropical Song.

These were Guerra's first wins in a major category since 2015, when he won Album Of The Year for Todo Tiene Su Hora at the 16th Annual Latin GRAMMY awards. Guerra has won Album Of The Year as an artist in 2007, 2010 and 2014, and in 2012 he won for his production work on Juanes' MTV Unplugged album. 

Despite his familiarity with the Latin GRAMMYs stage, Guerra appeared emotional when he walked up to the stage for the last time to accept the award for Album Of The Year from Carlos Vives. Holding his Latin GRAMMY, Guerra praised God and credited Jesus with inspiring the album.

Earlier in the night, Guerra delighted the crowd at Miami’s Kaseya Center with a performance of "Mambo 23," featuring the full band. Dressed in his iconic newsboy cap and neckerchief, he launched into the dance floor burner on a stage illuminated in flashing neon. Boiler Suit-clad dancers completed a scene that was somehow both unassuming and spectacular.

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Guerra has had a four-decade long career of innovating in Caribbean music, while bringing genres such bachata to international fame. Radio Güira continues the theme of boundary pushing. It has been praised for its experiments in combining old and new genres, from merengue to reggaeton, with dashes of jazz and blues. 

Check out the complete list of winners and nominees at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs.

The legacy of Luis Fonsi's career practically goes hand-in-hand with the history of the Latin GRAMMY Awards. Fresh off his win for Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs, the Puerto Rican pop icon performed a medley of his greatest hits.

The career-spanning performance began with his beloved 2008 ballad, "No Me Doy Por Vencido." In a sparkling orange suit, Fonsi belted his heart out to the song that's become an anthem of hope. 

Dancers then joined him onstage for a sultry performance of his 2017 global smash, "Despacito," which had the whole audience — including Marc Anthony and his wife Nadia Ferreira — dancing along. Fonsi then closed out his live medley with the upbeat "Santa Marta" from his latest album, El Viaje; he danced into the audience where this year's Person Of The Year honoree, Carlos Vives, sang along with him.

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The ambitious El Viaje, which was recorded in several different countries around the world, earned Fonsi a Latin GRAMMY win for Best Pop Vocal Album. It marks his 11th Latin GRAMMY nomination to date; he has won six Latin GRAMMYs, four of those thanks to "Despacito," which won Record Of The Year and Song Of The Year in 2017.

"What I'm most proud of is just that — it's a song that represents my heritage, my language, and the love of my island, Puerto Rico," Fonsi told GRAMMY.com about "Despacito" back in 2022. "It has that swag, that thing, that sabor that we carry in our blood. It's a celebration of all of that."

Just after the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs, Fonsi will add an exciting first to his resume: his film debut. The singer will star in the rom-com Say A Little Prayer, which opens in theaters on Nov. 22. 

Check out the complete list of winners and nominees at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs.