My Favorite 2021 Latin American Music Awards Moments By: Lupe Llerenas
The 6th annual Latin American Music Awards was everything I expected and more!
Hosted by Mexican actress and host Jacqueline Bracamontes, Latin music’s biggest night paid tribute to today’s most influential and iconic Latin artists. This year, fans voted in 25 music categories including Pop, Urban, Tropical, Regional Mexican, as well as Favorite Artist, Crossover, Collaboration of the Year, Social Artist of the Year, Favorite Video, and Favorite Virtual Concert.
Colombian artists J Balvin and Karol G dominated the list of Latin AMAs nominees. Thanks to his album ”Colores” and his hit collaboration “Ritmo (Bad Boys for Life),” with the Black Eyed Peas, J Balvin held nine nominations. Sharing the same honor was fellow Colombian artist, Karol G also had nine nominations, including Artist, Song, and Social Artist and Collaboration of the Year,” thanks to her collaborations in “Tusa” with Nicki Minaj and “Caramelo” with Ozuna and Myke Towers. Puerto Rico’s Bad Bunny, followed with eight nominations, primarily for his album “YHLQMDLG” and his smash-hit song “Yo Perreo Sola.” Ozuna, who obtained seven nominations was honored with the Extraordinary Evolution award. The recognition celebrated the urban music singer and actor’s meteoric career since skyrocketing to fame in 2016, receiving numerous accolades, recognitions, and collaborating with some of the biggest names in Latin Urban music.
Aside from the awards, the night also featured star-studded performances from Ozuna, Maluma, Karol G, Banda MS, Prince Royce, Camilo, and many more.
So, after watching the three-hour show, I wanted to round up some of my favorite moments from this year’s Latin American Music Awards.
Wisin, Myke Towers, Annita, and Maluma Open Up The Latin AMAs
Wisin and Myke Towers recruited Brazilian pop star Anitta and Maluma to open the 2021 Latin AMAs with their remix collaboration to “Mi Niña.” Each performer took the stage solo until all four came together to wrap up the fire performance.
Karol G and Mariah Angeliq’s Deliver Girl Power Performance
Karol G and Mariah Angeliq’s “El Makinon” performance brought all-girl power vibes we love. The two started the performance at opposite ends of the stage but gradually came closer to sing the infectious, head-bopping reggaeton hit.
Ozuna Is Honored With The Extraordinary Evolution Award
Ozuna took a trip down memory lane singing a medley of his older and new songs including “Se Preparó,” “Una Vaina Loca,” and “Dile Que Tu Me Quieres” before accepting his Extraordinary Evolution award. In a very touching and surprise moment, Ozuna was presented with the award by his grandmother. The two remained in a tearful embrace as the Reggaeton-urban singer delivered his acceptance speech, thanking his grandmother, who he referred to as his “mother” and his “everything.” “This angel taught me…that we were born to fight,” Ozuna said.
José Luis Rodríguez “El Puma” Received The Legend Award
José Luis Rodríguez “El Puma” was honored with the Legend Award. “El Puma” then went on to accept the award, thanking his family, music label, and his fans. “You are the ones that got me so far,” he said.
Ana Bárbara and Joss Favela Paid Tribute to The Late-Great Joan Sebastian
Ana Bárbara and Joss Favela paid a special tribute to The King of Rodeo, Joan Sebastian by performing several of his greatest hits. This tribute was also presented by the Mexican actress and singer Maribel Guardia, who had a relationship with the singer-songwriter and also shared a son together.
Alejandro Fernández Received The Icon Award
Alejandro Fernández received special recognition from the Latin AMAs for being one of the most distinguished and beloved artists in the Hispanic world.
Maluma and Piso 21 Close Out The Night With a Bang
Maluma was joined by Piso 21 as they closed out the show in full effect. The colorful performance of “Más de la Una” featuring masked dancers, orange fog, and bouncing spotlights.
Of course, these were just a few of my favorite Latin AMAs moments. However, if you want to relive any of these show-stopping moments, head over to Telemundo’s Latin American Music Awards page for more.