Grupo Firme to Take Part in ‘Superstar Panel’ During Billboard Latin Music Week

Posted on August 9, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

Grupo Firme will be taking part in this year’s Billboard Latin Music Week.

The Regional Mexican band will take part in one of the various superstar panels during the event, which will take place on September 26-30 at Miami’s Faena Forum.

Founded by Eduin Caz in Tijuana, Mexico, in 2013, Grupo Firme — which straddles the genres of banda and norteño — is comprised of Eduin’s brother Jhonny Caz, Abraham Hernández, Joaquín Ruiz, Christian Gutiérrez, José Rubio and Dylan Camacho.

Touring titans, in 2021, the band secured a historic booking at Los Angeles’ 20,000-capacity Staples Center as the first Latin act to perform the most shows in a single calendar year at the venue with seven sold-out concerts this summer. (The only other artist who has done more in one year is Adele, with eight performances in 2016.)

Grupo Firme joins the already announced star-studded lineup that includes Romeo Santos, Camilo, Chayanne, Ivy Queen, Nicky Jam, Eslabon Armado, Bizarrap, Blessd, Yahritza Y Su Esencia, Luis R. Conriquez, Ovy on the Drums, Kunno, and The Rivera Family.

More participants will be announced in the weeks leading up to the 2022 Latin Music Week. Registration is now open at BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com.

For 30 years, Billboard Latin Music Week has been the longest running and biggest Latin music industry gathering in the world. After a sold-out 2021 edition that featured Q&As with Daddy Yankee and Karol G, as well as show-stopping performances by Anitta, Rauw Alejandro, and Natti Natasha, the event returns, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month.

Billboard Latin Music Week will also coincide with the 2022 Billboard Latin Music Awards on Thursday, Sept. 29, in Miami. The Billboard Latin Music Awards will broadcast live on Telemundo, and will also broadcast simultaneously on the Spanish entertainment cable network, Universo, and throughout Latin America and the Caribbean on Telemundo Internacional.

Grupo Firme Signs with Creative Artists Agency (CAA)

Posted on July 14, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

Grupo Firme is hoping to take Regional Mexican music to the global stage…

The Mexican band has signed with Creative Artists Agency (CAA) for worldwide representation in all areas.

The L.A.-based agency also signed the regional Mexican group’s indie label, Music VIP.

News of the signing comes on the heels of Grupo Firme’s stadium tour across the U.S. with stops at L.A.’s Sofi Stadium, Metlife Stadium in New York, Atlanta’s Mercedes Benz Stadium and a final stop at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for Mexican Independence Day weekend in September.

Grupo Firme — founded in Tijuana, Mexico, in 2013 — straddles the genres of banda and norteño and comprises brothers Eduin and Jhonny Caz, Abraham Hernández, Joaquín Ruiz, Christian Gutiérrez, José Rubio and Dylan Camacho.

Initially known for performing corridos, the group was catapulted into the mainstream in 2017 after signing a label and management deal with Music VIP.

Since then, the band — who won their first Latin Grammy last year with their album Nos Divertimos Logrando Lo Imposible — has achieved unprecedented success with many firsts under their belt, including making history by becoming the first banda ensemble to ever play at Coachella.

Additionally, on Billboard’s 2021 year-end Boxscore Charts, Grupo Firme landed at No. 23 in the Top 40 Tours chart after grossing $18 million from 19 shows thanks to their historic run at the Crypto.com Arena last year, when they helped relaunch the venue (then Staples Center) by playing its first concert in 513 days.

It also marked the beginning of the supergroup’s historic run at the arena with their first (of seven) full-capacity, sold-out show — making history as the Latin act to perform the most shows in a single calendar year at Staples (the only other artist who has done more is Adele, with eight in one calendar year).

Grupo Firme is managed by Isael Gutiérrez, founder of Music VIP. Management will continue to broker certain tour deals directly on their own.

J Balvin & Karol G Lead Pack of Premios Juventud Nominees with 11 Nods Each

Posted on June 19, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

J Balvin and Karol G are the leaders of the pack…

The 2022 Premios Juventud nominations have been revealed, with the 37-year-old Colombian singer and rapper and the 31-year-old Colombian singer-songwriter each earning 11 nods.

J Bavin and Karol G are followed by nine-time nominee Rauw Alejandro and Farruko with eight.

Balvin, Karol, Farruko and Rauw Alejandro are up for the coveted album of the year prize, alongside Sebastian Yatra, Justin Quiles, Daddy Yankee, Camilo, Rosalia and Natti Natasha.

Other top nominees include Angela Aguilar, Camilo and Grupo Firme with seven nominations each, followed by Anitta, Christian Nodal, El Alfa, Maluma and Rosalia with six nominations each.

Celebrating the trendiest artists in Latin entertainment, 31 awards will be handed out to music stars, actors and fashionistas.

This year, 10 new categories have been added: female artist – on the rise, male artist – on the rise, my favorite actor, my favorite actress, best onscreen couple, my favorite streaming artist, best couple song, tropical hit, the best beatmakers, and best fandom.

Fans have until June 27 to vote at PremiosJuventud.com.

In addition to the nominees, Univision unveiled bachata crooner Prince Royce, Grupo Firme’s Eduin Caz, Mexican pop star Danna Paola, and Dominican TV personality Clarissa Molina as the ceremony’s co-hosts.

The 2022 Premios Juventud will air live at 7:00 pm ET on Thursday, July 21, from the Coliseo Jose Miguel Agrelot in San Juan, Puerto Rico, via Univision.

Here’s the full list of nominees:

The New Generation – Female
Bad Gyal
Corina Smith
Evaluna Montaner
Ingratax
Kim Loaiza
La Gabi
Las Villa
Lola Indigo
Ptazeta
Tokischa

The New Generation – Male
Alejo
Blessd
Boza
Duki
Lit Killah
Luis Vazquez
Ovi
Robi
Ryan Castro
Tiago Pzk

The New Generation – Regional Mexican
Dannylux
Gera Mx
Ivan Cornejo
Los Del Limit
Luis R Conriquez
Lupita Infante
Majo Aguilar
Ramon Vega
Santa Fe Klan
Yahritza Y Su Esencia

Male Artist – On the Rise
Eladio Carrión
El Alfa
Feid
Jay Wheeler
Jhayco
Justin Quiles
Lenny Tavárez
Mora
Paulo Londra
Sech

Female Artist – On the Rise
Ángela Aguilar
Cazzu
Emilia
Farina
Kali Uchis
Maria Becerra
Mariah Angeliq
Nathy Peluso
Nicki Nicole
Tini

My Favorite Streaming Artist
Anitta
Bad Bunny
Camilo
Christian Nodal
Daddy Yankee
Farruko
Grupo Firme
J Balvin
Karol G
Rauw Alejandro

Best Song by a Couple
“Att: Amor” – Greeicy & Mike Bahía
“Dangerous” – Nicki Nicole, Trueno & Bizarrap
“Esto Recién Empieza” – Duki & Emilia
“Índigo” – Camilo & Evaluna Montaner
“Si Tu Me Busca” – Anuel Aa & Yailin La Mas Viral

Best Regional Mexican Song
“Ahí Donde Me Ven” – Ángela Aguilar
“A La Antigüita” – Calibre 50
“La Casita” – Banda Ms De Sergio Lizárraga
“¿Qué Tienen Tus Palabras?” – Banda El Recodo De Cruz Lizárraga
“Sin Miedo Al Éxito” – Banda Los Sebastianes
“Soy Buen Amigo “- El Fantasma
“Soy El Único” – Yahritza Y Su Esencia
“Ya No Somos Ni Seremos” – Christian Nodal
“Ya Solo Eres Mi Ex” – La Adictiva Banda San José De Mesillas
“Ya Supérame (En Vivo)” – Grupo Firme

Best Regional Mexican Collaboration
“2 Veces” – Los Plebes Del Rancho De Ariel Camacho & Christian Nodal
“Amores Van Y Vienen” – La Nueva Estrategia & La Maquinaria Norteña
“El Columpio” – Banda Los Sebastianes & Los Rieleros Del Norte
“El Triste Alegre (En Vivo)” – Banda Carnaval & Calibre 50
“En Tu Perra Vida” – Grupo Firme & Lenin Ramírez
“La Sinvergüenza” – Christian Nodal & Banda Ms De Sergio Lizárraga
“Mariachi Tumbado” – Danny Felix Feat. Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán
“Mariposa Traicionera” – Maná & Alejandro Fernández
“Señorita Cantinera” – Los Rieleros Del Norte Feat. Polo Urias Y Su Maquina Norteña
“Te Encontré” – Ulices Chaidez & Eslabon Armado

Best Regional Mexican Fusion
“Cada Quien” – Grupo Firme & Maluma
“Como Lo Hice Yo” – Matisse & Carin Leon
“Ella Qué Te Dio” – Ángela Aguilar & Jesse Y Joy
“Está Dañada Remix” – Ivan Cornejo & Jhayco
“Fino Licor” – Gerardo Ortiz Feat. Piso 21
“Las Locuras Mías” – Omar Chaparro Feat. Joey Montana
“Monterrey” – Guaynaa & Pain Digital
“Otra Noche” – Los Ángeles Azules & Nicki Nicole
“Qué Bueno Es Tenerte” – Natalia Jiménez & Banda Ms De Sergio Lizárraga
“Te Lloré Un Río” – Maná & Christian Nodal

The Perfect Mix
“Canción Bonita” – Carlos Vives & Ricky Martin
“El Incomprendido” – Farruko, Victor Cardenas & Dj Adoni
“Emojis De Corazones” – Wisin, Jhayco & Ozuna Feat. Los Legendarios
“Fan De Tus Fotos” – Nicky Jam & Romeo Santos
“Mojando Asientos” – Maluma Feat. Feid
“Pareja Del Año” – Sebastián Yatra & Myke Towers
“Se Menea” – Don Omar & Nio García
“Una Nota” – J Balvin & Sech
“Volví” – Aventura & Bad Bunny
“Wow Bb” – Natti Natasha, El Alfa & Chimbala

Best Tropical Hit
“Agüita E Coco” – Kany García
“Cartas Sobre La Mesa” – Gilberto Santa Rosa
“Cumbiana” – Carlos Vives
“Hasta El Sol De Hoy (Versión Salsa)” – Luis Figueroa
“Lao’ A Lao’” – Prince Royce
“No Hay” – El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico
“Pa’lla Voy” – Marc Anthony
“Pa’ Que Me Perdones” – Héctor Acosta “El Torito”
“Sus Huellas” – Romeo Santos
“Tu Fan” – Luis Vazquez

Best Tropical Mix
“Besos En Cualquier Horario” – Carlos Vives, Mau Y Ricky & Lucy Vives
“Dame Una Noche” – Manny Cruz & Daniel Santacruz
“Dios Así Lo Quiso” – Ricardo Montaner & Juan Luis Guerra 4.40
“Háblame De Miami” – Gente De Zona & Maffio
“La Bendición” – Farruko & Lenier
“Lluvia Y Samba” – Elvis Crespo, Gilberto Santa Rosa & Alex Bueno
“Pa’mi” – Peter Nieto & Ivy Queen
“Señor Juez” – Ozuna & Anthony Santos
“Te Espero” – Prince Royce & Maria Becerra
“Tú No Bailas Mas Que Yo” – Jerry Rivera Feat. Don Omar

Collaboration Omg
“Don’t Be Shy” – Tiësto & Karol G
“Kesi – Remix” – Camilo & Shawn Mendes
“La Fama” – Rosalía Feat. The Weeknd
“Mama Tetema “- Maluma Feat. Rayvanny
“Nostálgico” – Rvssian, Rauw Alejandro & Chris Brown
“Oh Na Na” – Camila Cabello, Myke Towers & Tainy
“Santo” – Christina Aguilera & Ozuna
“Sg” – Dj Snake, Ozuna, Megan Thee Stallion & Lisa Of Blackpink
“Sigue “- J Balvin & Ed Sheeran
“Tacones Rojos” – Sebastián Yatra & John Legend

Viral Track of the Year
“Envolver Remix” – Anitta & Justin Quiles
“Índigo” – Camilo & Evaluna Montaner
“Mamiii” – Becky G & Karol G
“Medallo” – Blessd, Justin Quiles & Lenny Tavárez
“Pepas” – Farruko
“Poblado Remix” – J Balvin, Karol G & Nicky Jam Feat. Crissin, Totoy El Frio & Natan Y Shander
“Qué Más Pues?” – J Balvin & Maria Becerra
“Sobrio” – Maluma
“Todo De Ti” – Rauw Alejandro
“Yonaguni” – Bad Bunny

Artist of the Youth – Male
Bad Bunny
Camilo
Christian Nodal
El Alfa
Farruko
J Balvin
Maluma
Rauw Alejandro
Romeo Santos
Sebastián Yatra

Artist of the Youth – Female
Ángela Aguilar
Anitta
Becky G
Kali Uchis
Karol G
Maria Becerra
Natti Natasha
Nicki Nicole
Rosalía
Sofía Reyes

Favorite Group or Duo of the Year
Calibre 50
Cnco
Gente De Zona
Grupo Firme
Jesse & Joy
Los Ángeles Azules
Maná
Mau Y Ricky
Reik
Wisin Y Yandel

Album of the Year
Dharma – Sebastián Yatra
Jose – J Balvin
Kg0516 – Karol G
La 167 – Farruko
La Última Promesa – Justin Quiles
Legendaddy – Daddy Yankee
Mis Manos – Camilo
Motomami – Rosalía
Nattividad – Natti Natasha
Vice Versa – Rauw Alejandro

Regional Mexican Album of the Year
Alma Vacía – Ivan Cornejo
Del Barrio Hasta Aquí, Vol. 2 – Fuerza Regida
Esta Vida Es Muy Bonita – Banda El Recodo De Cruz Lizárraga
Inédito – Carin Leon
La Ley De La Vida – Luis Angel “El Flaco”
Mexicana Enamorada – Ángela Aguilar
Mi Herencia, Mi Sangre – Majo Aguilar
Mi Vida En Un Cigarro 2 – Junior H
Vamos Bien – Calibre 50
Ya Solo Eres Mi Ex – La Adictiva Banda San José De Mesillas

The Catchiest Song
“A La Antigüita” – Calibre 50
“Envolver” – Anitta
“In Da Getto” – J Balvin & Skrillex
“Lao’ A Lao’” – Prince Royce
“Pa’lla Voy” – Marc Anthony
“Pepas” – Farruko
“Provenza” – Karol G
“Sus Huellas” – Romeo Santos
“Todo De Ti” – Rauw Alejandro
“Ya Supérame (En Vivo)” – Grupo Firme

Best Girl Power Collab
“24/7” – Sofía Reyes & The Change
“Báilalo Mujer” – Flor De Rap & Denise Rosenthal
“Hasta Los Dientes” – Camila Cabello & Maria Becerra
“La Niña De La Escuela” – Lola Indigo, Tini & Belinda
“Linda” – Tokischa & Rosalía
“Mamiii” – Becky G & Karol G
“Pa Mis Muchachas” – Christina Aguilera, Becky G, Nicki Nicole Feat. Nathy Peluso
“Piketona” – Lele Pons & Kim Loaiza
“Roce” – Paopao, La Gabi, Villano Antillano, Aria Vega & Cami Da Baby
“Yummy Yummy Love” – Momoland & Natti Natasha

The Best”Beatmakers”
Albert Hype
Bizarrap
Caleb Calloway
Edgar Barrera
Los Legendarios
Mr. Naisgai
Mvsis
Ovy On The Drums
Sky Rompiendo
Tainy

The Hottest Choreography
“Chicken Teriyaki” – Rosalía
“Disciplina” – Lali
“Envolver” – Anitta
“Todo De Ti” – Rauw Alejandro
“Wow Bb” – Natti Natasha, El Alfa & Chimbala

Video with Best Social Message
“Dpm (De P*Ta Madre)” – Kany García
“Gracias” – Pedro Capó
“My Lova” – Farruko
“Niño Soñador” – J Balvin
“This Is Not America” – Residente Feat. Ibeyi

Popular Artist or Influencer
Ángela Aguilar
Danna Paola
Domelipa
Eduin Caz
El Alfa
Karol G
Karol Sevilla
Kim Loaiza
Lele Pons
Luisito Comunica

Best Social Media Power Couple
Anuel Aa & Yailin La Mas Viral
Becky G & Sebastian Lletget
Emilia & Duki
Gabriel Soto & Irina Baeva
Juanpa Zurita & Macarena Achaga

Best Fandom
Ángela Aguilar – Angelitos
Camilo – La Tribu
Carlos Rivera – Riveristas
Cnco – Cncowners
Jay Wheeler – Rueditas
Tini – Tinistas

Best Social Dance Challenge
“Bombón” – Daddy Yankee, El Alfa & Lil Jon
“Don’t Be Shy” – Tiësto & Karol G
“Envolver” – Anitta
“Fiel” – Los Legendarios, Wisin & Jhayco
“Fuera Del Mercado” – Danny Ocean
“In Da Getto” – J Balvin & Skrillex
“Jordan” – Ryan Castro
“Linda” – Tokischa & Rosalía
“Mon Amour Remix” – Zzoilo & Aitana
“Problemón” – Álvaro Díaz & Rauw Alejandro

Trendiest Artist
Bad Bunny
Danna Paola
Emilia
Goyo
Grupo Firme
J Balvin
Karol G
Maluma
Rauw Alejandro
Reik

My Favorite Actor
Gabriel Soto – Soltero Con Hijas
Jesús Zavala – Búnker
José Ron – La Desalmada
Oscar Isaac – Moon Knight
Sebastián Rulli – Vencer El Pasado

My Favorite Actress
Angelique Boyer – Vencer El Pasado
Carolina Miranda – ¿Quién Mató A Sara?
Danna Paola – Elite
Macarena Achaga – Luis Miguel: The Series
Yalitza Aparicio – Hijas De Brujas

Best On-Screen Couple
Angelique Boyer & Sebastián Rulli – Vencer El Pasado
Livia Brito & José Ron – La Desalmada
Maite Perroni & Alejandro Speitzer – Oscuro Deseo
Susana González & David Zepeda – Mi Fortuna Es Amarte
Úrsula Corberó & Miguel Herrán – La Casa De Papel

Bruno Mars Leads Latinx Pack with Five Billboard Music Awards Nominations

Posted on April 9, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

It’s a (Silk) Sonic boom for Bruno Mars…

The 36-year-old part-Puerto Rican singer-songwriter is the top Latinx contender for this year’s Billboard Music Awards with five nods.

Mars is nominated in the Top Duo/Group category alongside Anderson .Paak for their R&B superduo Silk Sonic, which they launched in March 2021. The duo is also nominated in the Top R&B Artist category.

Silk Sonic’s An Evening With Silk Sonic earned Mars a nod in the Top R&B Album category, while the group’s chart-topping single “Leave the Door Open” is up for Top R&B Song.

Additionally, Mars is nominated for Top R&B Tour for Bruno Mars at Park MGM.

Bad Bunny has also picked up five nods this year.

The 28-year-old Puerto Rican rapper, singer and record producer is up for Top Latin Artist, Top Latin Male Artist and Top Latin Tour for El Último Tour Del Mundo and

Bad Bunny is also nominated twice in the Top Latin Song category. He’s nominated for the singles “Yonaguni” and “Volví,” his collaborations with Aventura.

Kali Uchis is the top Latina nominee…

The 27-year-old Colombian American singer is up for Top Latin Artist, Top Latin Female Artist, Top Latin Album for Sin Miedo (del Amor y Otros Demonios) ∞, and Top Latin Song for telepatía.

Farruko is nominated for four BBMAs, including one outside of the Latin field.

Along with his nods for Top Latin Artist, Top Latin Male Artist and Top Latin Song for his hit single “Pepas,” the 30-year-old Puerto Rican singer and songwriter’s track is also nominated in the Top Dance/Electronic Song category.

Rauw Alejandro has earned four nods…

The 29-year-old Puerto Rican singer and rapper is up for Top Latin Artist, Top Latin Male Artist, Top Latin Album for Vice Versa, and Top Latin Song for “Todo De Ti.”

Karol G has earned three nods…

The 31-year-old Colombian singer is up for Top Latin Artist, Top Latin Female Artist and Top Latin Album for her album KG0516.

Eslabon Armado is nominated for two awards…

The Mexican group is up for Top Latin Duo/Group and Top Latin Album for Corta Venas.

Other artists earning a nod include Aventura, FKA Twigs, J Balvin, Enrique Iglesias, Ricky Martin, Rosalia, Grupo Firme and Cardi B.

This year’s awards are based on the tracking period of March 26, 2021, through March 17, 2022. That corresponds to Billboard chart dates of April 10, 2021, through March 26, 2022.

Billboard Music Awards finalists and winners are based on key fan interactions with music, including album and digital song sales, streaming, radio airplay, and social engagement, tracked by Billboard and its data partners, including Luminate (formerly MRC Data).

The BBMAs have celebrated music’s greatest achievements for more than 30 years. Unique among music awards shows, finalists are determined by performance on the Billboard charts. Since 1940, the Billboard charts have been the most

The BBMAs will broadcast live coast-to-coast from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, May 15 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT on NBC and will stream live on Peacock. This year’s host has not been announced.

The 2022 Billboard Music Awards are produced by MRC Live & Alternative. Robert Deaton is executive producer.

Tickets to attend the show are available to the public. Prices start at $90 per ticket and are available for purchase here. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Here are the 2022 Billboard Music Awards finalists:

ARTIST AWARDS

Top Artist
Doja Cat
Drake
Olivia Rodrigo
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd

Top New Artist
Givēon
Masked Wolf
Olivia Rodrigo
Pooh Shiesty
The Kid LAROI

Top Male Artist
Drake
Ed Sheeran
Justin Bieber
Lil Nas X
The Weeknd

Top Female Artist
Adele
Doja Cat
Dua Lipa
Olivia Rodrigo
Taylor Swift

Top Duo/Group
BTS
Glass Animals
Imagine Dragons
Migos
Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak)

Top Billboard 200 Artist
Adele
Drake
Juice WRLD
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift

Top Hot 100 Artist
Doja Cat
Drake
Justin Bieber
Olivia Rodrigo
The Weeknd

Top Streaming Songs Artist
Doja Cat
Drake
Lil Nas X
Olivia Rodrigo
The Weeknd

Top Song Sales Artist
Adele
BTS
Dua Lipa
Ed Sheeran
Walker Hayes

Top Radio Songs Artist
Doja Cat
Ed Sheeran
Justin Bieber
Olivia Rodrigo
The Weeknd

Top Billboard Global 200 Artist (NEW)
Doja Cat
Ed Sheeran
Justin Bieber
Olivia Rodrigo
The Weeknd

Top Billboard Global (Excl. U.S.) Artist (NEW)
BTS
Dua Lipa
Ed Sheeran
Olivia Rodrigo
The Weeknd

Top Tour
Eagles (Hotel California Tour)
Genesis (The Last Domino? Tour)
Green Day, Fall Out Boy & Weezer (The Hella Mega Tour)
Harry Styles (Love on Tour)
The Rolling Stones (No Filter Tour)

Top R&B Artist
Doja Cat
Givēon
Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak)
Summer Walker
The Weeknd

Top R&B Male Artist
Givēon
Khalid
The Weeknd

Top R&B Female Artist
Doja Cat
Summer Walker
SZA

Top R&B Tour
Bruno Mars (Bruno Mars at Park MGM)
Omarion & Bow Wow (The Millennium Tour 2021)
Usher (The Vegas Residency)

Top Rap Artist
Drake
Juice WRLD
Lil Baby
Moneybagg Yo
Polo G

Top Rap Male Artist
Drake
Juice WRLD
Polo G

Top Rap Female Artist
Cardi B
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion

Top Rap Tour
J. Cole (The Off-Season Tour)
Lil Baby (The Back Outside Tour)
Omarion & Bow Wow (The Millennium Tour 2021)

Top Country Artist
Chris Stapleton
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift
Walker Hayes

Top Country Male Artist
Chris Stapleton
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen

Top Country Female Artist
Carrie Underwood
Miranda Lambert
Taylor Swift

Top Country Duo/Group
Dan + Shay
Florida Georgia Line
Zac Brown Band

Top Country Tour
Luke Bryan (Proud to Be Right Here Tour)
Eric Church (Gather Again Tour)
Chris Stapleton (All-American Road Show Tour)

Top Rock Artist
Glass Animals
Imagine Dragons
Machine Gun Kelly
Måneskin
twenty one pilots

Top Rock Tour
Genesis (The Last Domino? Tour)
Green Day, Fall Out Boy & Weezer (The Hella Mega Tour)
The Rolling Stones (No Filter Tour)

Top Latin Artist
Bad Bunny
Farruko
Kali Uchis
Karol G
Rauw Alejandro

Top Latin Male Artist
Bad Bunny
Farruko
Rauw Alejandro

Top Latin Female Artist
Kali Uchis
Karol G
Rosalía

Top Latin Duo/Group
Calibre 50
Eslabon Armado
Grupo Firme

Top Latin Tour
Bad Bunny (El Último Tour Del Mundo)
Enrique Iglesias & Ricky Martin (Live in Concert)
Los Bukis (Una Historia Cantada Tour)

Top Dance/Electronic Artist
Calvin Harris
David Guetta
Lady Gaga
Marshmello
Tiësto

Top Christian Artist
Carrie Underwood
Elevation Worship
for King & Country
Lauren Daigle
Ye

Top Gospel Artist
CeCe Winans
Elevation Worship
Kirk Franklin
Maverick City Music
Ye

ALBUM AWARDS

Top Billboard 200 Album
Adele, 30
Doja Cat, Planet Her
Drake, Certified Lover Boy
Morgan Wallen, Dangerous: The Double Album
Olivia Rodrigo, SOUR

Top Soundtrack
Arcane League of Legends
Encanto
In The Heights
Sing 2
tick, tick…BOOM!

Top R&B Album
Doja Cat, Planet Her
Givēon, When It’s All Said and Done…Take Time
Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak), An Evening With Silk Sonic
Summer Walker, Still Over It
The Weeknd, Dawn F

Top Rap Album
Drake, Certified Lover Boy
Moneybagg Yo, A Gangsta’s Pain
Rod Wave, SoulFly
The Kid LAROI, F*ck Love
Ye, Donda

Top Country Album
Florida Georgia Line, Life Rolls On
Lee Brice, Hey World
Taylor Swift, Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
Taylor Swift, Red (Taylor’s Version)
Walker Hayes, Country Stuff: The Album

Top Rock Album
AJR, OK Orchestra
Coldplay, Music of the Spheres
Imagine Dragons, Mercury – Act 1
John Mayer, Sob Rock
twenty one pilots, Scaled and Icy

Top Latin Album
Eslabon Armado, Corta Venas
J Balvin, Jose
Kali Uchis, Sin Miedo (del Amor y Otros Demonios) ∞
Karol G, KG0516
Rauw Alejandro, Vice Versa

Top Dance/Electronic Album
C418, Minecraft – Volume Alpha
FKA twigs, Caprisongs
Illenium, Fallen Embers
Porter Robinson, Nurture
Rüfüs Du Sol, Surrender

Top Christian Album
Carrie Underwood, My Savior
CeCe Winans, Believe for It
Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music, Old Church Basement
Phil Wickham, Hymn of Heaven
Ye, Donda

Top Gospel Album
CeCe Winans, Believe for It
Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music, Old Church Basement
Maverick City Music, Jubilee: Juneteenth Edition
Maverick City Music & Upperroom, move your heart.
Ye, Donda

SONG AWARDS

Top Hot 100 Song
Doja Cat ft. SZA, “Kiss Me More”
Dua Lipa, “Levitating”
Olivia Rodrigo, “good 4 u”
The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber, “Stay”
The Weeknd & Ariana Grande, “Save Your Tears”

Top Streaming Song
Dua Lipa, “Levitating”
Glass Animals, “Heat Waves”
Olivia Rodrigo, “good 4 u”
The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber, “Stay”
The Weeknd & Ariana Grande, “Save Your Tears”

Top Selling Song
BTS, “Butter”
BTS, “Permission to Dance”
Dua Lipa, “Levitating”
Ed Sheeran, “Bad Habits”
Walker Hayes, “Fancy Like”

Top Radio Song
Dua Lipa, “Levitating”
Ed Sheeran, “Bad Habits”
Olivia Rodrigo, “good 4 u”
The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber, “Stay”
The Weeknd & Ariana Grande, “Save Your Tears”

Top Collaboration
Doja Cat ft. SZA, “Kiss Me More”
Justin Bieber ft. Daniel Caesar & GIVĒON, “Peaches”
Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow, “Industry Baby”
The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber, “Stay”
The Weeknd & Ariana Grande, “Save Your Tears”

Top Billboard Global 200 Song (NEW)
Dua Lipa, “Levitating”
Ed Sheeran, “Bad Habits”
Olivia Rodrigo, “good 4 u”
The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber, “Stay”
The Weeknd & Ariana Grande, “Save Your Tears”

Top Billboard Global (Excl. U.S.) Song (NEW)
BTS, “Butter”
Ed Sheeran, “Bad Habits”
Lil Nas X, “Montero (Call Me by Your Name)”
The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber, “Stay”
The Weeknd & Ariana Grande, “Save Your Tears”

Top Viral Song (NEW)
Doja Cat ft. SZA, “Kiss Me More”
Gayle, “abcdefu”
Glass Animals, “Heat Waves”
Masked Wolf, “Astronaut In The Ocean”
Walker Hayes, “Fancy Like”

Top R&B Song
Doja Cat & The Weeknd, “You Right”
Givēon, “Heartbreak Anniversary”
Justin Bieber ft. Daniel Caesar & Givēon, “Peaches”
Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak), “Leave The Door Open”
WizKid ft. Justin Bieber & Tems, “Essence”

Top Rap Song
Drake ft. 21 Savage, Project Pat, “Knife Talk”
Drake ft. Future & Young Thug, “Way 2 Sexy”
Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow, “Industry Baby”
Masked Wolf, “Astronaut In The Ocean”
Polo G, “Rapstar”

Top Country Song
Chris Stapleton, “You Should Probably Leave”
Jason Aldean & Carrie Underwood, “If I Didn’t Love You”
Jordan Davis ft. Luke Bryan, “Buy Dirt”
Luke Combs, “Forever After All”
Walker Hayes, “Fancy Like”

Top Rock Song
Coldplay X BTS, “My Universe”
Elle King & Miranda Lambert, “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home)”
Imagine Dragons, “Follow You”
Måneskin, “Beggin’”
The Anxiety: Willow & Tyler Cole, “Meet Me at Our Spot”

Top Latin Song
Aventura x Bad Bunny, “Volví”
Bad Bunny, “Yonaguni”
Farruko, “Pepas”
Kali Uchis, “telepatía”
Rauw Alejandro, “Todo De Ti”

Top Dance/Electronic Song
Elton John & Dua Lipa, “Cold Heart – PNAU Remix”
Farruko, “Pepas”
Regard x Troye Sivan x Tate McRae, “You”
Tiësto, “The Business”
Travis Scott & HVME, “Goosebumps”

Top Christian Song
Anne Wilson, “My Jesus”
Ye, “Hurricane”
Ye, “Moon”
Ye, “Off The Grid”
Ye, “Praise God”

Top Gospel Song
Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music ft. Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine, “Jireh”
Ye, “Hurricane”
Ye, “Moon”
Ye, “Off the Grid”
Ye, “Praise God”

Camilo Teaming Up with Grupo Firme for New Collaboration

Posted on February 27, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

Camilo has firmed up his next collaboration…

The 27-year-old Colombian singer, musician and songwriter was spotted hanging out with Grupo Firme at a recording studio earlier this week.

Grupo Firme spilled some details to Billboard on the Premio Lo Nuestro red carpet.

“I don’t know if I can say much, but we made a really good collaboration,” vocalist Eduin Caz said, adding that Edgar Barrera composed the song. “The song came out great, but soon we’ll reveal more information and when it’s coming.”

Backstage at the media center, Camilo admitted to being a faithful Grupo Firme fan and always listening to their music at home.

“Them, and El Fantasma, is what I mostly listen to,” he said. “I had a lot of desire to work with them. The energy at the studio is mutual, and we always have a good time. I love what they represent.”

Bad Bunny Wins Six Premio Lo Nuestro Awards, Including Artist of the Year

Posted on February 25, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

Bad Bunny is celebrating a big night…

The 27-year-old Puerto Rican Grammy-winning rapper proved to be the big winner at this year’s Premio Lo Nuestro.

Bad Bunny, who wasn’t present at the awards show, won six trophies, including artist of the year, album of the year for El Último Tour Del Mundo, and The Perfect Mix of the Year for “Volví,” his collaboration with Aventura.

The “Yo Perreo Sola” singer was followed by Calibre 50, Camilo, CNCO, Grupo Firme, Karol G, and J Balvin with three wins each.

Winners for Premio Lo Nuestro, which aired live on Univision, are selected by fans, who choose from a list of finalists provided by the network.

Special awards were given to Paulina Rubio (“Premio a la Trayectoria”), Maluma (“Ídolo Global”) and Farruko (“Premio Lo Nuestro a la Excelencia Urbana”).

Maluma made an appearance with a message of optimism for Colombia, delivered alongside buddies Blssd, and Kapla y Miky, who all wore t-shirts that said “Medallo en el mapa. +Música, – violencia”

But the evening’s show-stopper was Farruko, who recently announced his embracement of Christianity and performed an emotional medley with fellow believers Pedro Capó and O’Neill, backed by a string orchestra and gospel choir and with motivational speaker Daniel Habif augmenting the message.

It was Habif who introduced Farruko’s four children onstage to give their dad his award. Tears flowed from everyone onstage as Farruko said: “The glory I give to God. Love your fellow man, love your enemy, forgive, be forgiven and have compassion others.”

Calibre 50 won Regional Mexican norteña and Mariachi song of the year, while Camilo won artist of the year, pop and pop/ballad and tropical song of the year. CNCO won pop song, album and group of the year while Grupo Firme took home Regional Mexican group of the year, Banda song of the year and Regional Mexican album of the year. J Balvin won crossover collaboration of the year, urban collaboration of the year and pop/urban song of the year.

And Karol G won song of the year, urban song of the year and urban female artist of the year.

Here’s a look at all the winners:

General

Lo Nuestro Award Artist of the Year: Bad Bunny
Album of the Year: “El Último Tour Del Mundo”, Bad Bunny
Song of the Year: “Bichota”, Karol G
Female Revelation Artist: Ángela Aguilar
Male Revelation Artist: El Alfa
Remix of the Year: “Ayer Me Llamó Mi Ex (Remix)”, Khea, Natti Natasha and Prince Royce with Lenny Santos
Crossover Collaboration of the Year: “In Da Getto”, J Balvin and Skrillex
The Perfect Mix of the Year: “Volví”, Aventura and Bad Bunny
DJ of the Year: DJ Adoni

Pop

Solo Artist of the Year – Pop: Camilo
Song of the Year – Pop: “Tan Enamorados”, CNCO
Collaboration of the Year – Pop: “Pareja del Año”, Sebastián Yatra and Myke Towers
Song of the Year – Pop/Urban: “Qué Más Pues?, J Balvin and María Becerra
Song of the Year – Pop-Urban/Dance: “Pepas”, Farruko.
Song of the Year – Pop/Ballad: “Amén”, Ricardo Montaner, Mau y Ricky, Camilo and Evaluna Montaner
Group or Duo of the Year – Pop: CNCO
Album of the Year – Pop: “Déjà vu”, CNCO

Urban

Male Artist of the Year – Urban: Bad Bunny
Female Artist of the Year – Urban: Karol G
Song of the Year – Urban: “Bichota”, Karol G
Collaboration of the Year – Urban: “AM Remix”, Nio García, J Balvin and Bad Bunny
Album of the Year – Urban: “El Último Tour Del Mundo”, Bad Bunny

Regional Mexican

Artist of the Year – Regional Mexican: Christian Nodal
Song of the Year – Regional Mexican: “A la antigüita”, Calibre 50
Collaboration of the Year – Regional Mexican: “Botella Tras Botella”, Gera MX and Christian Nodal
Group or Duo of the Year – Mexican Regional: Grupo Firme.
Norteño Song of the Year – Regional Mexican: “Te Volvería A Elegir”, Calibre 50
Band Song of the Year – Regional Mexican: “El Toxico”, Grupo Firme and Carin León
Mariachi/Ranchera Song of the Year – Regional Mexican: “100 Años”, Carlos Rivera, Maluma and Caliber 50
Sierreña Song of the Year – Regional Mexican: “Ya Me Enteré”, Chayín Rubio
Cumbia Song of the Year – Regional Mexican: “Cumbia a la gente”, Guaynaa and Los Ángeles Azules
Album of the Year – Regional Mexican: “Nos Divertimos Logrando Lo Imposible”, Grupo Firme

Tropical

Artist of the Year – Tropical: Romeo Santos
Song of the Year – Tropical: “Bebé”, Camilo and El Alfa
Collaboration of the Year – Tropical: “De Vuelta Pa’ La Vuelta”, Daddy Yankee and Marc Anthony.

Misc.

Lo Nuestro Award for Lifetime Achievement: Paulina Rubio
Global Idol Award: Maluma
Urban Excellence Award: Farruko

The winners were chosen by fan voting on the website.

Maluma Becomes First Musician to Design Limited-Edition Bottle for Hennessy V.S.O.P.

Posted on February 3, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

Maluma is bottling up his artistic talent…

The 28-year-old Colombian singer-songwriter is celebrating his three-year partnership with cognac brand Hennessy with the release of a special, limited-edition bottle.

The neon-hued Hennessy V.S.O.P bottle, designed entirely by Maluma — who becomes the first musician ever to design a limited-edition bottle for Hennessy V.S.O.P. — is a reflection of the singer-songwriter’s culture and roots.

“That was the most important thing for me,” Maluma, who partnered with Hennessy back in 2019, tells Billboard via Zoom. “That they give me the opportunity to come up with how the bottle would look. Not only because I’d be the first musician to do so, but because I wanted to tell my story with the design. If you look closely, you can see the buildings that identify my city, Medellín. That’s always been my plan, to take my city and my culture to a global level. I always want everyone to know where I come from.”

Jasmin Allen, senior vice president, Hennessy U.S., said in a statement: “Hennessy has a long history of championing and celebrating those who push the limits of potential, and Maluma’s journey is the perfect personification of our brand ethos. With this collaboration, we continue our legacy embracing Maluma’s expansive perspective in this Hennessy V.S.O.P limited edition — where quality meets unapologetic originality.”

In tune with Hennessy’s “Never Stop. Never Settle” motto, Maluma — whose 2021 Papi Juancho Tour grossed a grand total of $24 million and is featured as narrator in the newly released Amazon Prime documentary Mi Selección Colombia — most recently scored his first-ever entry on Billboard‘s Regional Mexican Airplay chart thanks to “Cada Quien,” his collaboration with Grupo Firme.

“I’ve always been a fan of regional Mexican music, of ranchera and mariachi,” he says about scoring a No. 1 on the tally. “Being on a Mexican chart in the U.S., well that’s a big deal. I always dreamt of that. When I travel to Mexico, it’s like being at home, I feel part of it, and I am very grateful to Grupo Firme for making this possible.”

Additionally, the “Hawái” singer will make his debut on the big screen on February 11 with Marry Me, starring alongside Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson. He’s also featured on the film’s soundtrack, which is set to drop Friday. Originally slated to be released in 2021, Maluma is eager for fans to see his acting chops in the rom-com. “I feel happy, I feel very proud. It’s the beginning of a new journey because I didn’t act before and doing it next to Jennifer and Owen, it’s such a big deal. I want to keep acting. I love it and it’s part of my art.”

The Hennessy V.S.O.P Limited Edition by Maluma design is now available nationwide for a limited time only.

Visit Hennessy.com for more information.

Maluma Teams Up with Grupo Firme on New Single “Cada Quien”

Posted on December 8, 2021 by Tom Castaneda

Maluma is firme-ing up his musical collaborations…

The 27-year-old Colombian singer and Grupo Firme have released the official music video for their unexpected collab single “Cada Quien.”

The Regional Mexican supergroup released their latest single on Tuesday (Dec. 7) and joined voices with the Colombian star on the track, marking the first time the norteño/banda group collaborated with an urbano artist.

“Cada Quien” is an unapologetic track where each artist chants about living life on their own terms and sends a message to all of those people who like to criticize and judge others: “To each his or her own!”

In the music video, filmed in Medellín, Colombia and presented by Music VIP Entertainment, Maluma and Grupo Firme are seen in a ranch while they sing and take shots straight from the bottle.

“We got a video from Maluma saying hello and asking when we’d work together. I mean, how could we say no to Maluma. We were thrilled and started coordinating everything. It all came together in a matter of days,” he said.

“Yes, we are collaborating outside of our style. We also recorded songs with Reik and Río Roma, but I’m always scared to go into another genre,” the group’s frontman Eduin Caz added. “I’m scared of losing our core fan base. That’s why sometimes I go onstage wearing an urbano outfit with sneakers, and other times, I’m wearing boots and a tejana [cowboy hat] so I can make everyone happy and they don’t get caught off guard when we sing with an urban artist. We’ve been very careful with those types of collaborations, and I trust in Isael (Firme’s manager) that we’re doing the right thing.”

Gloria Estefan to Perform at the Latin Grammy Awards Show

Posted on November 15, 2021 by Tom Castaneda

Gloria Estefan is headed to the Latin Grammys stage…

The Latin Recording Academy has announced additional performers set to take the stage for the 22nd annual Latin Grammy Awards on November 18 in Las Vegas, with the 64-year-old Cuban singer and four-time Latin Grammy winner among those on the list.

Making her return to the Latin Grammys stage after more than a decade, Estefan — accompanied by Anitta, Carlinhos Brown, Laércio da Costa, Pedro Capó, Farina, Giulia Be and Diego Torres — will open the Latin Grammys with a three-song medley, including her iconic song “Abriendo Puertas,” along with “Cuando Hay Amor” and “Magalenha.”

Additionally, Ángela Aguilar, Pepe Aguilar, María Becerra, Eladio Carrión, Silvestre Dangond, Emmanuel, Joss Favela, Evaluna Montaner, Ricardo Montaner, Fito Páez, Residente, Sofía Reyes, among others, have joined the broadcast as presenters.

The new group of artists join previously announced performers Mon Laferte, Grupo Firme, Bad Bunny, Banda El Recodo de Cruz Lizárraga, Rubén Blades, C. Tangana, Calibre 50, Los Dos Carnales, Alejandro Fernández, Juanes, Maná, Ozuna, Danna Paola and Myke Towers, among others.

Five-time nominee C. Tangana is set to perform alongside Antonio Carmona, Diego del Morao, Jorge Drexler, Israel Fernández, La Húngara, Natalia Lafourcade and Omar Apollo. Meanwhile, Juanes will perform a new arrangement of Juan Gabriel’s iconic “No Tengo Dinero,” alongside Rubén Albarrán and Meme del Real of Café Tacvba.

With the theme “rediscovering life through music,” the three-hour show will air live on Univision at 8:00 p.m. ET, preceded by a one-hour pre-show starting at 7:00 p.m. ET.

The telecast, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, will “invite audiences to rediscover what’s important in life using music as a storyline,” according to a statement from the Latin Recording Academy.

Camilo leads the 2021 Latin Grammys nominees with 10 nods, including nominations in the album, record, and song of the year categories. He’s followed by tropical music icon Juan Luis Guerra with six, Spanish rapper Tangana with five nominations, and multiple artists, including Bad Bunny, with four.

Estefan is nominated this year for Best Contemporary Tropical Album for her samba-flavored album Brazil305.

Grupo Firme Win Five Awards at Premios de la Radio

Posted on November 12, 2021 by Tom Castaneda

Grupo Firme is celebrating their La Radio success…

The 2021 Premios de la Radio have been announced, with the Regional Mexican group topping the list of winners.

Taking place at Mexico City’s Foro Expo Santa Fe with a star-studded lineup of presenters, performers and nominees, the awards recognize the best of Regional Mexican music.

During the nearly four-hour ceremony, 16 awards — voted on by fans — were presented live, with Grupo Firme leading the winners list and taking home a total of five awards. The banda-norteño group won artist of the year, norteño group of the year, banda song of the year for “Ya Supérame,” Latin pride award and collaboration of the year thanks to “Yo Ya No Vuelvo Contigo” with Lenin Ramírez.

Other big winners include Ángela Aguilar, who won three awards, including female artist of the year, and El Fantasma, who nabbed male artist of the year and norteña song of the year for “Cabrón y Vago” featuring Los Dos Carnales.

The ceremony featured performances by Grupo Firme, who was joined by Carin Leon and Ramírez onstage for a medley of their tracks “El Tóxico” and “Yo Ya No Vuelvo Contigo.” Aguilar took the spotlight for showstopping performances of “Ahi Donde Me Ven” and “En Realidad.”

Additionally, various tributes took place, including a heartfelt homage honoring Vicente Fernández‘s legacy, which included performances by Grupo Firme’s Eduin Caz, Alan and Walo of Banda MS, Leon, Natalia Jimenez, Leonardo Aguilar and Aída Cuevas.

Here’s the complete winners list:

Artist of the Year:
Grupo Firme

Male Artist of the Year:
El Fantasma

Female Artist of the Year:
Ángela Aguilar

Banda of the Year:
Banda MS

Norteño Group of the Year:
Grupo Firme

Sierreño Group or Soloist of the Year:
Carin Leon

Banda Song of the Year:
“Ya Supérame” – Grupo Firme

Mariachi Song of the Year:
“Dime cómo quieres” – Ángela Aguilar ft Christian Nodal

Norteña Song of the Year:
“Cabrón y Vago” – El Fantasma ft Los Dos Carnales

Sierreña Song of the Year:
“Ya Acabó” – Marca MP

Regional Urban Song of the Year:
“Grandes Ligas” – Lupillo Rivera, Alemán, Santa Fe Klan, B-Real ft Snoop Dogg

Corrido of the Year:
“El Perro “ – Gerardo Ortiz

Collaboration of the Year:
“Yo Ya No Vuelvo Contigo” – Lenin Ramírez ft Grupo Firme

New Artist of the Year:
Junior H

Latin Pride Award:
Ángela Aguilar
Grupo Firme

Tribute to the Greatest of Mexico:
Vicente Fernández
Pepe Aguilar
Aída Cuevas

Manager of the Year (Promoters Association):
Isael Gutiérrez, Grupo Firme

Hispanically Yours

Celebrating the Latino Influence

Tag Archives: Grupo Firme