Latin Music’s Biggest Night: Bad Bunny, Karol G, and Shakira Rule the 2025 Billboard Awards

The 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards turned into a historic night as Bad Bunny and Karol G led the winners’ circle with multiple major honors. The star-studded ceremony, held at the James L. Knight Center in Miami on October 23, celebrated the biggest names in Latin music with live performances and emotional tributes.

Bad Bunny emerged as the night’s biggest winner, earning 11 awards including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (Streaming) for “DTMF,” and Top Latin Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos. Karol G followed closely behind with six trophies, including Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year (Female), reaffirming her reign as one of Latin pop’s most powerful forces.

Bad Bunny, Karol G, and Shakira Lead Latin Music’s Biggest Celebration

The 32nd annual Billboard Latin Music Awards aired live on Telemundo and streamed on Peacock, giving millions of fans worldwide a front-row seat to the genre’s biggest celebration. Bad Bunny’s success further cemented his global dominance, while Colombian superstar Karol G’s victories highlighted her groundbreaking year marked by record-breaking tours and viral hits.

Puerto Rican icon Rita Moreno presented Bad Bunny with the coveted Billboard Top Latin Artist of the 21st Century Award, a milestone recognizing his impact on Latin music’s global reach. Shakira, Peso Pluma, Netón Vega, and Óscar Maydon were also honored during the evening, showcasing the diversity of styles shaping Latin music today.

Performances and Special Honors Light Up the Stage

Beyond the awards, the night was packed with high-energy performances and heartfelt tributes. Italian singer Laura Pausini received the Billboard Icon Award for her lasting influence and performed against a stunning ocean-themed backdrop in a sleek black gown. Merengue legend Elvis Crespo closed the ceremony with a lively medley of “Luna Llena” and “Borron y Cuenta Nueva,” joined by Ebenezer Guerra, Tono Rosario, and La Insuperable.

The stage was transformed into a vivid night scene outside a bodeguita, creating a nostalgic yet modern atmosphere. Other performers included Ozuna, Grupo Frontera, Danny Ocean, and Olga Tañón, making the show a dynamic reflection of Latin music’s evolution and vibrancy.

The Legacy and Future of Latin Music

With Bad Bunny and Karol G leading the charge, the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards highlighted how Latin artists continue to reshape global pop culture. Their dominance not only reflects commercial success but also the cultural resonance of Latin rhythms worldwide.

As the curtain closed on Miami’s biggest musical night, the message was clear: Latin music’s influence is stronger than ever, and its stars are redefining what it means to be global icons.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How many awards did Bad Bunny win at the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards?

Bad Bunny won 11 awards, including Artist of the Year and Top Latin Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos.

Q2: How many trophies did Karol G take home?

Karol G won six awards, including Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year (Female).

Q3: Who received the Billboard Icon Award in 2025?

Italian singer Laura Pausini received the Billboard Icon Award for her career achievements.

Q4: Who closed the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards?

Merengue star Elvis Crespo closed the show with a lively performance featuring multiple guest artists.

Q5: Where was the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards held?

The event took place at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida.