Karol G Serves Up a Riveting Salsa Rendition of ‘Amargura’ at Billboard Women in Music 2024 

A barefoot Karol G performed a riveting salsa version of “Amargura” at Billboard Women in Music on Wednesday (March 6) at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles. And, as she promised during her interview with Billboard on the red carpet, her performance got people on their feet dancing along with her — including Katy Perry.  

“Hi, everyone! For this special night I chose what I think is the favorite song of all of you, my fans,” Karol said speaking into a microphone stand that had a Colombian flag wrapped around it. “Not the most popular, but I know it’s your favorite. I brought so many talented girls with me to do a special version that represents my roots and my Latin community, and I want everyone to enjoy it.” 

Wearing a white flowy two-piece that encouraged her free-spirited performance, Karol sang live and danced up a storm with an all-girl salsa band (13 musicians in total) in tow, including Emily Estefan (Gloria and Emilio Estefan’s daughter) on percussion. The women in the band were also dressed in white, many wearing the long, traditional Colombian cumbia skirts. Karol’s salsa number was arranged and produced by Sergio George along with her longtime musical director Rob Trujillo.  

Karol G — who received the Woman of the Year Award – closed out the ceremony, which also included performances by Victoria Monet, NewJeans, Maren Morris, Young Miko and more.  

It’s not the first time Karol was honored at Billboard Women in Music. In 2022, the Colombian hitmaker received the Rulebreaker award and performed “El Barco.” Since then, Karol has had a year of career-defining moments, including a history-making album (Mañana Será Bonito), became the first Latina to ever embark on a stadium tour in the United States, headlined Lollapalooza and, most recently, won her first Grammy.  

“I’m super honored to be here today,” Karol said after accepting her Woman of the Year award from Sofía Vergara. “Oh my God, it might be the most significant and important recognition of all my career, this is super special.”  

Watch Karol G’s performance above, and her acceptance speech below: