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.
Rauw Alejandro Offers Free Show in Dominican Republic
Puerto Rican artist Rauw Alejandro delighted over 40,000 fans on December 13 with a free concert, “Noche Caribeña,” at Parque Eugenio María de Hostos in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The performance followed his “Cosa Nuestra” tour and included guest appearances from prominent local artists such as Toño Rosario, Wilfrido Vargas, NTG, Dalvin La Melodía, YK It’s Junaa, J Noa, Jezzy, Jey One, and Saso. The night concluded with a surprise performance by Puerto Rican rapper Clarent. Alejandro expressed his gratitude on Instagram, calling the concert “a gift from the heart” for Santo Domingo.
Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation Announces 2026 Noel Schajris Scholarship
The Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation has announced that Argentine singer/songwriter and pianist Noel Schajris will sponsor the 2026 Prodigy Scholarship, to be known as the 2026 Noel Schajris Scholarship. The scholarship will cover tuition, housing, and related expenses—valued at up to $250,000—for a bachelor’s degree at Berklee College of Music.
Schajris stated, “As a kid, I dreamed of making a living from music…that enormous blessing translates into the opportunity for music lovers to enjoy that incredible experience.” He emphasized the importance of learning and expressed excitement about discovering new talent. Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation Executive Director Raquel “Rocky” Egusquiza added that the foundation is “moved by the generosity of the artists and members of our music community.”
Spotify Celebrates Karol G’s Billion-Stream Triumphs
Spotify released a new episode of Billions Club: The Series featuring Karol G, celebrating eight of her songs surpassing one billion streams, including hits like “Provenza,” “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido,” “China,” and “Tusa” with Nicki Minaj. The episode offers a glimpse into Karol G’s life as she prepares for appearances, and captures a moment where her stylist asks about priorities, to which Karol G replies, “I think feeling comes first.” The full episode is available to watch here.
Eladio Carrión Tees Off for Puerto Rico’s Future
On Wednesday, December 17, Eladio Carrión hosted the inaugural Sauce Boyz Country Club Golf Tournament at Coco Beach Golf & Country Club in Río Grande, Puerto Rico. The event combined sports and philanthropy, raising funds for social initiatives supporting Puerto Rican children and youth through Sauce for a Cause and the Rimas Foundation.
Carrión stated, “Seeing so many people showing up…fills my heart.” He expressed gratitude to participants, supporters, and donors, emphasizing the event’s focus on creating opportunities for young people. The tournament drew athletes and celebrities including Rafa Campos, Javier Vázquez, José Vidro, Oscar Collazo, Erick and Lenny Tavárez.
Fox’s KTVU Highlights Indigenous Artists’ Impact in Latin Music
Fox’s KTVU featured Indigenous artists in Latin music on Tuesday, December 16, showcasing Mexica hip-hop artist Xiuhtezcatl and Quechua rapper Renata Flores, who previously performed with Shawn Mendes. The segment also highlighted “Guatemayan” artist Doctor Nativo, Bolivian singer Luzmila Carpio, known as the “Voice of the Andes,” and Oaxaca icon Lila Downs, all discussed in an interview with Billboard Español’s Isabela Raygoza. The video interview can be viewed here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Rauw Alejandro’s concert in the Dominican Republic?
The concert, called Noche Caribeña, was a free performance intended as a gift to Rauw Alejandro’s fans in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, following his Cosa Nuestra tour.
What does the 2026 Noel Schajris Scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers tuition, housing, and wrap-around services valued at up to $250,000 for a bachelor’s degree at Berklee College of Music.
Which artists were featured in Spotify’s latest episode of Billions Club: The Series?
The episode starred Karol G, celebrating eight of her songs surpassing one billion streams, including “Provenza,” “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido,” “China,” and “Tusa” with Nicki Minaj.
What role do artists play in supporting their communities, and how might these efforts influence the broader music industry?
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