Billboard Latin Music Week 2025 cemented its status as the premier global gathering for Latin artists, executives, and fans. Held in Miami from October 22 to 23, the annual event featured star-studded panels, cultural roundtables, networking sessions, and Billboard En Vivo showcases, culminating in the Billboard Latin Music Awards.

A standout moment came during The Music of the World Cup panel on Wednesday, October 22. Artists Carlos Vives, Emilia, Wisin, and Xavi, the voices behind the 2026 Telemundo World Cup anthem shared insight into their creative process. Moderated by Carlota Vizmanos, the discussion emphasized the song’s message of unity and family. Vives reflected, “In a world where war and hatred are the norm, soccer is the complete opposite. What a great opportunity for this song to speak to that and for Telemundo to be the message that brings it.” Xavi echoed, “Despite being from different worlds, we all have something in common and that’s soccer, and that’s why it’s about unity.” The anthem was set to premiere at the Latin Music Awards ceremony.

Another popular session, The Power of Podcasters, gathered Leo Rojas (Venezuela), DimeloKing (Colombia), and Jorge “Molusco” Pabón (Puerto Rico), moderated by Tony Dandrades. The panel explored how podcasting amplifies new voices across Latin America. Panelists shared strategies for growth — from leveraging short-form video to nurturing loyal superfans — and underscored the democratizing power of digital media. “Podcasts give a voice to those who previously had no voice,” Rojas said, emphasizing authenticity as a creator’s greatest asset.

The Cumbia and Tropical Music Explosion panel, led by Jessica Roiz of Billboard, brought together icons Olga Tañón, Grupo 5, Guaynaa, Bebeshito, and Luck Ra. The discussion celebrated the resurgence of tropical genres across global streaming platforms. Tañón, known as the “Woman of Fire,” humorously recounted her hesitation to enter merengue: “I didn’t want to be a merengue singer; I’m a merengue snob.” Meanwhile, Christian Yaipén of Grupo 5 stressed authenticity over trends, and Guaynaa examined how both record labels and audiences shape creative experimentation. Bebeshito highlighted the community-driven nature of Cuban reparto, while Luck Ra described cumbia and cuarteto as “joyful, danceable languages that transcend borders.”

Beyond panels, the event was teeming with exclusive appearances. Ozuna joined Goyo, Kapo, Humby, and Venesti in an Afrobeats fusion discussion, while Tokischa engaged in a powerful one-on-one conversation with Ivy Queen about feminism, sexuality, and self-healing. Tokischa also revealed details about her forthcoming intimate album, seven months in the making, which delves into her personal journey and past traumas.

Other highlights included superstar Q&As with Daddy Yankee, Laura Pausini, and Kali Uchis, the popular Making the Hit Live! session with Pablo Alborán and Julio Reyes Copello, and the annual Women’s Panel featuring Aitana, Silvana Estrada, Yailin, Ela Taubert, and Yami Safdie. Attendees also enjoyed the signature Billboard photo booth, capturing candid behind-the-scenes moments with artists and industry figures.

The festivities culminated with the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards, broadcast live on Telemundo and Peacock. Bad Bunny received the honor of Top Latin Artist of the 21st Century, while Billboard announced its upcoming Live Music Summit in Los Angeles, slated for November 3, continuing the industry’s momentum.