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.

CUNY Celebrates Mexican-American Graduates with Peso Pluma as Guest Speaker

The City University of New York (CUNY) held its first-ever systemwide Mexican-American graduation ceremony on Saturday (May 2) at the Lehman College Center for the Performing Arts in the Bronx, with special guest and class padrino Peso Pluma. Organized by the CUNY Mexican Studies Institute with student input and led by Dr. Lizbeth de la Cruz Santana, assistant professor of Black and Latino Studies, the event celebrated the achievements and cultural identity of nearly 200 graduates from 14 CUNY institutions.

“This graduation marked a historic milestone as the first CUNY-wide commencement dedicated to honoring Mexican-American students and their families,” Dr. De La Cruz Santana tells Billboard Español. “Inviting Peso Pluma reflected a broader effort to celebrate the contributions of Mexican and Mexican-American communities across New York City and the United States.”

Dr. De La Cruz Santana also underscored the event’s grounding in the struggle for educational equity: “For decades, Mexican-American students faced segregation and unequal schooling in states like California, Texas, and Arizona. Landmark moments like Mendez v. Westminster and the East Los Angeles Walkouts demanded access, dignity, and representation.”

The Mexican superstar’s surprise appearance moved students and their families. “I couldn’t believe it when I saw him walk out!,” shared graduate Rachelle Campos-Suarez. “To witness such a historic moment for our community, our culture, and future generations was very emotional and unforgettable.”

“This celebration did not only honor the graduates but our parents and many others that helped and accompanied us along the way,” added alumni and student organizer Michelle Cruz. “It is also serves as a statement for spaces like the higher education systems that says ‘We belong here too.’”

Venezuelan Singer Opens His Own Art Exhibition in Venice

Venezuelan multidisciplinary artist Eduardo Galán — featured as a musician in our On the Radar Latin column in October 2022 — reached a new milestone this week, this time as a visual artist, by inaugurating his own art exhibition in Venice, Italy. Titled The Circle of Love, the show opened its doors on May 6 at the Kokonton Gallery, coinciding with the preview of the 61st Venice Art Biennale.

“This body of work explores the relationship between time, transformation, and that which endures. Through materials such as cement, Japanese paper, and 24k gold, I sought to create works that feel both fragile and eternal at the same time — deeply inspired by the textures, scars, and beauty of Venice,” Galán tells Billboard Español. “For me, this exhibition represents something deeply personal: the moment when music, painting, and life finally began to speak the same language.”

The show will remain open until May 24. — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS

Puerto Rico’s Coca-Cola Music Hall Goes Phone-Free, Letting Fans Unplug

Coca-Cola Music Hall made history as the first venue in Puerto Rico to implement a phone-free system during comedian Marcello Hernández’s performance last month. The concept allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the live experience by eliminating cell phone usage in the main hall. The system was utilized again on Friday (May 8) for actor and comedian Chris Tucker’s show.

“This type of experience is designed to allow the audience to fully enjoy the show, keeping their attention on the stage and ensuring that the content is exclusively for those who purchased tickets to the event,” said Arleene Pérez, general manager of the Coca-Cola Music Hall, in a press release.

Attendees are required to secure their phones and smart devices in special locked pouches upon entry and can only access them in designated areas. Despite initial concerns, the rollout during Hernández’s show ran smoothly. “The audience quickly adapted to the system, and we had no issues,” added Pérez. “On the first night, the turnaround time for attendees to receive their phones was 16 minutes, and on the second night it was 13 minutes.”

Maná, Alejandro Fernández, J Balvin, Los Ángeles Azules and Belinda will be part of the lineup gracing the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Banorte) on June 11, the FIFA announced on Friday (May 8) on its social media channels.

Joining the star-studded lineup are Mexican-American singer-songwriter Lila Downs, Venezuelan star Danny Ocean and South African artist Tyla.

“The FIFA World Cup is a moment the world shares, and that begins with how we open it,” reads the post, which was also shared by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“Mexico will kick-off an unprecedented Opening Ceremony with a celebration full of sound, colour, and meaning,” it adds. “It is the first note in a tournament that will echo across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, united by a shared passion for the game that connects millions worldwide.”

The statement highlights that after the start in Mexico City and continuing in the following days in Toronto and Los Angeles, these ceremonies “will bring together music, culture and football in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament. It is a powerful way to begin a truly global celebration.”

Organizers noted that each opening ceremony will begin 90 minutes before the kickoff of the match, starting in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11, at 11:30 a.m. local time. Gates will open four hours before the opening whistle, offering a full set of experiences including exclusive activations and rewards leading up to the game.

Mexico will face South Africa in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, in a stadium that will go down in history as the first to host three FIFA World Cups. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will feature 104 matches in 16 host cities, starting on June 11 in Mexico City and concluding on July 19 in New York at the MetLife Stadium, which has been rebranded for the event as the New York New Jersey Stadium.

A joint album was not in the 2026 bingo card for J Balvin and Ryan Castro—but here they are 10 tracks later, further cementing the bromance they often show on social media.  

Coined Omerta—after the Italian word that means “code of silence”—the album represents a loyalty between the two Colombian artists that goes beyond just a collaborative effort. 

“It’s like sealing our musical and personal brotherhood,” Balvin tells Billboard. “In this career, it allows you to grow without ego, share visions, and forge new paths; it also pushes you out of your comfort zone to create something distinct.” 

“J Balvin is a very selective person when it comes to choosing his favorite artists, his friends, and his inner circle,” Castro adds. “I feel that he saw something very special in me—he saw my unique talent. I admire his work deeply and to be able to say that in my career and in my process I have an album with him is a dream come true.”

Home to the previously released “Tonto” and “Pal’ Agua,” Omerta seamlessly blends Castro’s signature dancehall and reggae rhythms as heard in “Una A La Vez” and “Medetown” as well as Balvin’s progressive reggaetón sound, such as “Dalmation” and “Viernes.”  

The set also delivers trap, urban-pop fusions, Afrohouse and the alternative-meets-perreo “Melo,” which is Balvin’s personal favorite “because it breaks the mold and has an unexpected energy,” he says. “We brought together things that normally don’t go together, and in the end, it feels very us—evolving without fear.   

“We blended the two worlds: the Caribbean, the island, is deeply ingrained in my DNA, while he lives more in the city, in New York,” explains Castro. “Culturally, we share very similar musical tastes, and I think we came up with a lot of ideas that we both really loved. Bringing those two worlds together was truly awesome.”

Though a joint album was technically not planned, its creation happened organically. 

“It all started without a plan,” Balvin expresses. “We were in the studio, laughing and making music without any pressure, and the vibe just came together naturally. That’s when we realized there was something special there—and when we looked back, we already had a project without even realizing it.” 

Castro elaborates: “Beyond the friendship and respect we share, we are family. We didn’t approach this from a business perspective; rather, we did it for fun and to vibe together.”

Omerta follows a set of singles that both Medellín-born powerhouses have released together including “Nivel de Perreo” in 2022 and “+57” alongside Karol G, Maluma, Feid, Blessd, DFZM and Ovy on the Drums in 2024. Balvin was even a featured actor in Castro’s 2025 “Mi Fortuna” music video. 

“Ryan possesses a truly authentic essence—a voice and a flow that connect on a different level,” Balvin gushes. “I bring a different creative vision, one that involves daring to push the boundaries of genre a bit until the song finds its true form. Ultimately, it’s about complementing who each of us is.”

Stream and listen to Omerta below.

The Arre Festival, which brings together major regional Mexican music stars, is returning this year to its original venue in Mexico City after being held in Monterrey in 2025.

Alejandro Fernández and Banda MS headline the lineup for the event organized by Ocesa, now formally called Arre Pepsi Black. The festival will take place Sept. 5 and 6 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the same location where it was held during its first two editions.

This year, the lineup will feature artists from mariachi, banda, norteño, tumbados and tropical music, with notable performances also by Los Tucanes de Tijuana, Calle 24, Clave Especial, Eslabón Armado, Gabito Ballesteros, Grupo Cañaveral, Los Dos Carnales, Los Plebes del Rancho de Ariel Camacho and Víctor Mendivil. These stars, who represent different generations of regional Mexican music, will be joined by other artists to be announced at a later date.

The history of Festival Arre began in 2023, when it attracted more than 70,000 attendees — a feat that has been repeated in subsequent editions, according to organizers, showcasing the growing importance of the genre in recent years.

According to data from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), Mexico entered the top 10 global music markets for the first time in 2024. That milestone was driven by a 15.6% increase in recorded music revenue, as reported in the IFPI’s Global Music Report 2025.

Tickets for Arre Festival will go on sale starting May 13 through Ticketmaster.com.mx.

Check out the full 2026 lineup below.

Bad Bunny is no stranger to turning a look, but at the 2026 Met Gala on Monday (May 4), the Latin superstar had everyone doing double takes–even if it gave them a crick in the neck afterward.

Artificially aging himself with white hair and wrinkle makeup, Benito strolled down the Met Gala carpet, cane in hand, in an all-black suit with a large, flowy bow. Beyond hair and makeup, his body language sold the senior citizen look, too–no surprise, given that he’s set to star in a film about Puerto Rico directed by Residente following acting turns in Bullet Train and Happy Gilmore 2.

Vogue red carpet co-host La La Anthony asked the Billboard Hot 100-topping, Grammy-winning Super Bowl Halftime Show headliner how he continues to one-up himself at the Met Gala. “I don’t know,” he replied. “It’s getting a part of my life, trying to do something different. This day of the Met is a perfect day to explore and be creative and express yourself in a different way.”

As for how long the look took to put together, Bad Bunny joked to Anthony, “53 years exactly. It took a little bit but it’s worth it. I hope I look good,” he said. (Presumably, the Puerto Rican artist was hoping to score the senior discount on Met Museum tickets.)

Elsewhere at the 2026 Met Gala, Maluma, Madonna, Beyoncé (one of this year’s co-chairs), Charli xcx, Sam Smith, Doja Cat, Sabrina Carpenter and all four members of BLACKPINK—JISOO, JENNIE, LISA and ROSÉ—all walked the red carpet. Check out a gallery of the many musicians at the 2026 Met Gala here. The 2026 Met Gala theme is “Fashion Is Art,” centered around the “Costume Art” exhibit.

Laura Pausini fulfilled a “big dream” in Mexico alongside Spanish star Ana Torroja when the two performed the iconic Mecano song “Hijo de la Luna” together on Saturday (May 2) at the Arena Ciudad de México.

The concert took place in front of 15,000 people who packed the venue, according to promoter Zignia Live.

“For many years, you’ve been a huge inspiration,” an emotional Pausini told Torroja onstage. “In that small body, you inspire so much, and today you’ve made a big dream of mine come true, my little doll.”

“I had a lump in my throat the whole time,” responded the former Mecano vocalist. “It’s an emotion that’s hard to control. Laura, you are a being of light.”

Unlike other concerts on her Yo Canto World Tour, where Pausini’s wardrobe is designed to visually translate the gypsy legend narrated in “Hijo de la Luna,” she appeared onstage in Mexico City wearing a black and silver tunic that contrasted with Torroja’s white outfit. Together, they created one of the most celebrated moments of the evening.

But the surprises didn’t stop there. The Italian artist also invited her fellow countryman Achille Lauro to the stage to perform “16 de Marzo” (the Spanish version of Lauro’s 2020 hit “16 Marzo”) live for the first time. The song in Italian is part of Pausini’s new album of covers, Io Canto 2. The Spanish version, which is not included on her album Yo Canto 2, was just released on digital platforms on Friday (May 1).

Lauro’s performance was warmly received by the Mexican audience. The rapper, dressed in an elegant black suit that exposed his torso, was greeted with thunderous applause.

During the 14th stop of her Yo Canto World Tour, Pausini’s setlist revolved around Yo Canto 2 and also included hits from her own discography. Over the course of the show — that lasted a little more than three hours — the singer-songwriter delighted the audience with classics such as “Amores extraños”, “La soledad” and “Inolvidable”, as well as her renditions of Mexican musical gems like Natalia Lafourcade’s “Hasta la Raíz” and Joan Sebastian’s “Eso y Más,” both featured on the album.

As she has done in other cities, Pausini ended the night performing a few surprise songs alongside her pianist after the lights had been turned on and the audience began to leave the venue. In Mexico City, this magical moment included the songs “Quiero Decirte Que Te Amo” and “El Mundo Que Soñé.”

The Yo Canto World Tour will continue in Mexico on Tuesday (May 5) with a performance at the Arena Guadalajara, followed by a show two days later at Arena Monterrey. On May 16, the tour will move to the U.S. and Canada, starting in Miami and concluding on June 6 in New York.

In October, Pausini will resume the tour in Italy and other European countries with a different repertoire focused on the Italian edition of her covers project, Io Canto 2.

The streets of Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, were gradually overtaken on Saturday (May 2) by Shakira’s fans, affectionately known as the “wolfpack.”

By late afternoon, the world-famous Brazilian beach had effectively transformed into the largest concert venue on the planet. Outside the Copacabana Palace, where the Colombian singer is staying, thousands of fans kept a tireless vigil, hoping for even a glimpse of the diva. Just hours before the show, the air was thick with anticipation for the third installment of the “Todo Mundo no Rio” (Everyone in Rio) project — a series that in previous years has hosted icons like Madonna and Lady Gaga.

Copacabana Becomes ‘Lobacabana’

Sporting an outfit inspired by Shakira’s 2020 Super Bowl performance and a she-wolf headpiece, 41-year-old Brazilian fan Yagan Rebeca arrived to pay tribute to her favorite artist.

“I’ve loved Shakira since I was 16,” she said. “She is a true inspiration to me. I’ve been dealing with health issues lately, and I always like to come in cool clothes; her costumes are a dream to me. I managed to hand-sew this Super Bowl look together at the last minute.”

Shakira’s entourage in Copacabana isn’t just limited to Brazilians. Performer Mati Bish traveled from Chile specifically for the event. As a professional Shakira impersonator, Bish donned an outfit inspired by the “Hips Don’t Lie” music video.

“Shakira has been an inspiration since I was very young,” Bish stated. “I’m a huge fan; her looks and her music move me deeply. She’s massive in Chile, and to me, she is everything.”

International Fans Join the Brazilian Pack

The Colombian star’s success even crossed the species barrier. Dressed in a coin-beaded gypsy scarf, a Golden Retriever named Nala was playfully “mistaken” for the singer by fans, who showered her with affection. Her owner, Jessica Lima, explained the fun: “I already had this Carnival costume, so we put it on her with the concert in mind. She’s a total hit here in front of the hotel. People are already calling her ‘Shakira’ and everything.”

Finally, the “Todo Mundo no Rio” project proved to be a boon for street vendors, who sold Shakira-themed merchandise all along the boardwalk. Mother and son duo Paula Cristina and Igor Rodrigues celebrated the continuation of the project, which has already been confirmed for 2027 and 2028.

“This year feels different,” Paula remarked. “I think if it had been Justin Bieber, it might have been even better. Maybe next year or in 2028. I’m here and I’ve invested a good amount of money in stock. As far as we’re concerned, these beach concerts should happen every year. It’s great for Rio, for the low-income population who can’t afford traditional venues, and for tourism.”

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.

Marc Anthony Unites Stars for Maestro Cares’ Golf Fundraiser

A lineup of stars, sports legends and philanthropists gathered on Friday (May 1) for the Maestro Cares Foundation’s 5th Annual Golf Tournament, hosted by co-founders Marc Anthony and concert promoter Henry Cárdenas. Taking place in Aventura, Flor. at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort, this year’s tournament and fundraiser supports the foundation’s efforts to aid disadvantaged children and communities in Latin America and the U.S.

Those in attendance included Luis Fonsi, Lenny Tavárez, producer Jean Rodriguez, comedian and actor Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, NBA Hall of Famer Alonzo Mourning, Miami Dolphins icon Nat Moore and former NFL player Robert Bailey. Also, there were pro golfers Camilo Villegas and Marcelo Rozo, former boxing champion Jorge Linares and Fontainebleau Development CEO Jeffrey Soffer.

“Seeing how this tournament has grown over these five years is incredible,” said Anthony in a press release. “Together with Henry and each of you, we have achieved something that goes beyond a trophy; we are creating a legacy of hope. Thank you all for joining us once again to be the engine of change that so many children need.”

Los Tigres del Norte Partner With St. Jude for Día del Niño Support

Los Tigres del Norte visited St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for the first time on Thursday (April 30) — Mexico’s El Día Del Niño (Children’s Day) — and connected with patients and families through music and traditions, like the game of la lotería (the Mexican bingo). Through this initiative, the band is urging fans to join the Angeles de Esperanza (Partner in Hope) program, providing monthly support to help families focus on their children’s health without financial burdens.

“Our visit to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital deeply touched our hearts,” said Los Tigres del Norte in a press release. “To see children and families from around the world supported with compassion and dignity is a powerful reminder that no child should face cancer or other serious illnesses alone. We left inspired and for Día del Niño, we invite our community to join us as Angeles de Esperanza, giving hope, month after month, to children who deserve every chance at their best life.”

SummerStage Marks 40 Years, LAMC Highlights Trueno, Milo J & More

Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage revealed its 2026 lineup on Tuesday (April 28), marking the festival’s 40th anniversary with performances across New York City parks. Within the live summer series, the Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) returns with shows featuring Julieta Venegas, Lasso, Trueno, Milo J, and J Noa, among others. Free and ticketed events will run from June through September at its flagship venue in Central Park and additional neighborhood parks across the five boroughs.

“Forty years ago, I had a simple idea: that world-class music and performing arts belonged to everyone, not just those who could afford a ticket. Four decades later, I’m genuinely moved by what SummerStage has meant to our city and what we helped build together with our fans,” said SummerStage founder Joe Killian in a press release. “SummerStage has been the cultural backbone of NYC since 1986, bringing artists from across the globe to share their sounds and stories with our neighbors in their local parks […] As we step into this 40th season, I’m not just proud of where we’ve been, but I’m also excited for the moments still to come.”

BRESH Brings “La Fiesta Más Linda” to U.S. and Soccer Fans This Summer

Internationally renowned Argentine party BRESH continues to expand its U.S. presence with new cities and an event series of events scheduled to coincide with the World Cup this summer. Known for blending reggaeton, pop and Latin hits, BRESH continues to celebrate culture, music and community as a global movement. Get tickets here.

“We’ve always believed that BRESH is more than just a party. It’s a space where people connect emotionally, share joy and celebrate culture together,” said BRESH CEO Tomas Allande in a press release. “The U.S. has become a key part of our vision, and this summer’s international soccer tournament offers the perfect opportunity to bring our community closer together through shared experiences. We want to amplify the excitement around the tournament while also staying true to BRESH’s ethos of unity and celebration.” See the dates below:

Julieta Venegas Reflects on Identity and Baja Roots at Norteña Event

Del Maguey & Parcha hosted Julieta Venegas on Thursday (April 30) in New York’s National Sawdust for an intimate evening of music and conversation about her upcoming album and memoir, both titled Norteña, due out later this month. Venegas talked about being raised on the border (Tijuana-California), her family, identity and her musical development up until her arrival in Mexico City.

“It started to become an obsession to read books about Baja California, about Tijuana,” said Venegas during the event. “To begin inhabiting this universe with the landscape of Baja California that inspired me so much for the album — my home, my family, the relationship they instilled in me with music. The book is about that too. It’s a memory that I invented; that is the norteña music I remember. I included all the elements and undertones that I felt are norteños to me. It was a way of celebrating it, putting it into words and songs.”

She also performed her latest single “La Línea” and beloved hits like “Lento” and “Limón y Sal,” alternating between her piano, accordion and acoustic guitar.

It took time, but Leslie Grace has found her own sound and is back with her first original album in more than a decade, Amor, Quién Eres?, a 14-track bilingual project that showcases her artistic and personal evolution.

Released today (May 1) under Sony Music Latin, the set — which includes singles like “Ayayay” and “Inmerecido” — blends her Latin pop foundation with bachata textures and R&B influences for tracks like “El Plan,” “Miedo” and “Tú Supiste?,” the latter featuring the duo Martox.

The release coincides with Grace’s multiple acting projects. Alongside her music career, she has built a presence on screen since her 2021 debut as Nina Rosario on In the Heights — the film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s award-winning Broadway musical, directed by Jon M. Chu.

“It’s been a beautiful journey since then to go back to the basics on my music. Music is the foundation and came first, obviously, but when acting became a thing with In the Heights, and I started to get into that craft a bit more, integrating that into my art, that part of my career became a new way for me to learn how I wanted my collaboration within music to feel,” Grace tells Billboard Español. “It was almost like an initiation for me in stepping up and maturing in the way that I was approaching my music because I started so young, so I never really had a chance to create — it was [mostly] versions of other songs.”

Grace started in music as a child with a Christian album. In 2012, she rose to fame with a bilingual version of The Shirelles’ classic “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” titled “Will U Still Love Me Tomorrow” and set to a bachata rhythm. The song reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Tropical Airplay chart and No. 3 on Hot Latin Songs. The following year, she released her self-titled album, produced by Sergio George, which peaked at No. 3 on the Top Latin Albums chart and earned a Latin Grammy nomination for best tropical album. She was only 17 years old.

“I’m super proud of and I’m blessed that everyone enjoyed [that music] in their time. But in terms of the creative process of how I experienced creating as an artist, I never really took the time or had the chance to cultivate what that process felt like for me, what my preferred process was and learning that through being inspired by working with people like Lin and Jon and taking things from those film experiences to bring to my process,” she reflects now, at 31.

Since her successful 2013 LP, Grace has released an EP (Lloviendo Estrellas in 2015) and a series of singles (most recently “Como la Primera Vez” with Boza in 2022), but she hadn’t recorded a full album again until now. This time, supported by a diverse team of producers, she sought inspiration from her own experiences: “A lot of good moments, not so fun moments, but mainly, mainly love — love experiences, relationships,” she shares. “And sometimes I would go back in my old journals and find little verses and things that I could expand on, and then they would turn into songs.”

Every song on Amor, Quién Eres? includes a visual component, with individual music videos that, together, will form an “immersive short film,” according to a press release, combining her talents as both a singer and actress. This past March, the artist had prominent roles in two films featured at the SXSW festival: Stages, a Live Nation project directed by Ryan Booth that follows two mid-career musicians who must start over and tour independently; and Campeón Gabacho by Jonás Cuarón, about a young migrant crossing the Rio Grande in search of a better life in the United States.

When asked what she learned about herself during the process of creating her new album, Grace replies, “I discovered that — a lot of times I thought that I didn’t have clarity and really I just needed to exercise the muscle of expressing more of what I knew that I wanted to others and exercise the muscle of just feeling confident enough in my ideas to share and be able to collaborate with the people around me.”

Listen to Amor, Quién Eres? below.