Karol G Surprises Fans at Spotify Event in Times Square & More Uplifting Moments in Latin Music
Plus, Ana Mena is set to make history as the first female Latin artist to perform the A-Nation Festival in Tokyo, Japan.
From career milestones to new music releases to major announcements and those little important moments, Billboard editors highlight uplifting moments in Latin music. Here’s what happened in the Latin music world this week.
Maestro Cares Names J Balvin Honoree at 12th Annual Gala
Maestro Cares Foundation will honor Colombian superstar J Balvin at its 12th Annual “Changing Lives, Building Dreams” Gala on Nov. 5 at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. He will be recognized for his philanthropic impact and receive the Trailblazer of Cultural Empowerment Award for his contributions to Latin culture and mental health advocacy.
“We are thrilled to honor J Balvin, a true trailblazer whose artistic and philanthropic leadership inspires positive change in communities worldwide,” said Henry Cárdenas, co-founder of Maestro CaresFoundation, in a press release. “He truly reflects our commitment to transforming lives through opportunity and hope.” Additional honorees will be announced soon.
Karol G Surprises Fans at Immersive Spotify Event in Times Square
Karol G and Spotify teamed up on Monday (July 21) to celebrate her new album, Tropicoqueta, with a special immersive event at Paradise Club in Times Square, New York. The Colombian powerhouse surprised over 200 fans with her appearance for an evening that “fused music, culture, and the bold energy of Karol’s new era,” says the press release.
Ricardo Arjona Sells Out Residency in Guatemala
Ricardo Arjona achieves a big milestone, selling out all 15 dates of his residency, Lo Que El Seco No Dijo, in his native Guatemala in less than two hours. The shows will run from Oct. 31 to Nov. 23 at the Teatro Nacional Miguel Ángel Asturias and will coincide with the release of an upcoming album, following his latest LP, SECO, released earlier this year.
In addition to his record-breaking residency, Arjona has announced a one-night-only concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Feb. 11, 2026. This special performance marks his return to one of the world’s most iconic stages.
Ana Mena, First Latin Act to Perform in Japanese Festival, A-Nation
Ana Mena is set to make history as the first female Latin artist to perform the A-Nation Festival in Tokyo, Japan, on Aug. 30. The event, held at the Ajinomoto Stadium, will welcome a sold-out crowd of 60,000 attendees. This groundbreaking moment marks a big moment for Latin music in Asia and underscores the Spanish singer’s growing global influence.
The festival lineup will be officially announced on Tuesday at 5 p.m. JST (10 a.m. in Spain, 5 a.m. in Miami). As part of this historic occasion, Ana Mena’s team will document her journey in Japan with a filmmaker and photographer, capturing the essence of this pivotal moment.
Yahritza y Su Esencia Surprises a Fan
Yahritza y Su Esencia created a heartwarming moment by surprising one of their biggest fans, Dalia, during a special meeting. “I’ve been waiting for this day for a long time. I’m going to meet one of my biggest fans,” the lead singer shared on TikTok ahead of the encounter. Dalia, who has cerebral palsy, also seemed eagerly waiting for this day.
During the visit, the group performed their song “Frágil,” originally recorded with Grupo Frontera, for Dalia and her family. Reflecting on the day, Yahritza wrote in the caption, “One of the best days of my life. We were delighted to meet Dania and her family.” The touching gesture underscores Yahritza y Su Esencia’s deep connection with their fans and their ability to bring joy through their music.
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