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.
“En Barranquilla Se Baila Así”
Ahead of the launch of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour in February, Shakira’s hometown is honoring her with a special tribute at the annual Carnaval de Barranquilla. This year, the festival — which kicks off March 1 — has adopted the Colombian hitmaker’s iconic line “En Barranquilla se baila así,” from “Hips Don’t Lie,” as its official slogan. On Jan. 11, fans in Barranquilla gathered at the Shakira statue where the official imagery for this year’s Carnaval was unveiled.
“This tribute touches my heart as a Barranquilla native and fills me with pride,” Shakira said in a statement. “It is an honor and a joy to be part of this in such a way. Since the day I was born, I have always felt incredibly proud to be from Barranquilla, and I always will be. Because that’s what we do here— celebrate life. And above all, we celebrate that we know how to celebrate! Let’s spread this energy to the entire world! Long live the Carnival, long live Barranquilla, its culture, and its people. Let’s show once again that this is how we dance in Barranquilla! Love you all!”
Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour will make a stop in Barranquilla. See the dates of her trek here.
Del Records Feeds First Responders
Amid the devastation that followed the blazing and deadly wildfires in L.A., Del Records CEO Angel Del Villar led an initiative on Thursday (Jan. 16) to feed firefighters, first responders, and support personnel stationed at their base camp at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. Del Villar recruited Tacos Bombero 408, which traveled from San Jose, Calif., with its fire truck turned taco truck. According to a press release, the Tacos Bombero 408 team served more than 1,000 fresh meals, “bringing hope and gratitude to those on the frontlines of the wildfire battle.” About the initiative, Del Villar said, “It’s the least we can do for those putting their lives on the line for us.”
Merch With a Cause
On Thursday, Karol G unveiled special merch dedicated to the city of Los Angeles, with all proceeds set to go towards wildfire relief efforts. The merch, a $120 hoodie and $40 tote bag, are now available for purchase here.
“LA, you are in my heart,” Karol G wrote in a post shared on her Karol G Merch Instagram page. “At Con Cora Foundation, we have joined forces with I Scream Color to create two pieces that represents solidarity with the people affected by one of the most devastating wildfires in California’s history. 100% of the artists proceeds will be donated to the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles to support the individuals, families and resources impacted. This is an act of love and gratitude for a city that means so much to me and to all of us. Together, we can make a difference. Let’s unite and show Los Angeles that it’s in our hearts.”
More Latin Acts Donate to Wildfire Relief Efforts
In solidarity with the community of Los Angeles, artists such as Alejandro Fernández, Maná, Peso Pluma, Chiquis and Fuerza Regida have all stepped up to help the countless of Angelenos who have been impacted by the ongoing devastation. In the past week, thousands of houses and structures burned and more than 100,000 people evacuated due to the wildfires. More than 20 people have died across the L.A. area.
See how Latin artists have helped those affected by the wildfires here.
For health alerts, evacuation updates and additional shelter information as the wildfire battle continues, go to L.A. County’s emergency website. Musicians and music industry professionals who are affected can get details about assistance here.
Blessd Goes All in for Fútbol
Earlier this week, Blessd became the largest investor in the Legacy Sports Partners fund, which has acquired the Danish football club Vendsyssel FF. “I am beyond thrilled to take on this incredible project with Vendsyssel FF,” the Colombian artist said in a statement. “Football has always been a passion of mine, and being able to connect it with my journey in music is a dream come true. Together, we will create something truly special for both music and football fans, uniting the best of two worlds — America and Europe — enhancing the club’s culture, and reaching new heights in Denmark and beyond.”
The first friendly match after the club’s acquisition will take place in Medellín, Colombia, against Atlético Nacional, as part of the preseason and the Copa Bendita.
