19th Annual Latin Billboards

**The following comes from Miami-based colleague Iveliesse Malave-- a new contributor to our blog.**

This week I will be attending the Latin Billboards at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood Beach, FL. As I plan logistics for my client--  a major sponsor of the show -- I’m wondering what will make headlines this year. Two years ago, it was all about the induction of Reggaeton as a new category. We enjoyed stellar performances by Daddy Yankee and Don Omar, who were battling “head to head” wanting to be proclaimed “king” of the genre. Last year, it was all about the duet by Paulina Rubio and Miguel Bose as part of his big come back and now highly popular Papito album. And last but not least, the revealing dresses worn by many Latina stars, which set the rumor mill on go especulating who may have had breast augmentations. 

This year I only wonder, will Calle 13 continue to take over the Reggaeton category, building upon their recent Grammy for album “Residente o Visitante”?  Or will the night be all about the recently announced performance by Enrique Iglesias? Maybe Juanes will take the spotlight as he will be receiving the “Spirit of Hope Award”.

The annual Billboard Latin Music Conference & Show is the single most important Latin music industry event in the world. It brings together over 1,000 powerful music executives, artists, composers, sponsors and press, it features four full days of programming, showcases, educational sessions, parties and networking events.  It is the only industry show that offers a 3-day conference focusing on the Latin music industry.

Get your chips and salsa ready and tune in to your local Telemundo station this Thursday at 7 p.m. (6 p.m. central) to watch live 19th Annual Latin Billboards.  This year announced performers include: Juanes, Conjunto Primavera, Alejandro Fernandez, Chayanne, Marco Antonio Solis, A.B. Quintanilla III Presenta Kumbia All Starz, Fanny Lu, Aventura, Camila, Alexis y Fido, Belanova, Alacranes Musical, Kany Garcia and La Arrolladora Banda El Limon. Who knows, maybe you will see me working the red carpet.