What to Look Forward to On Telemundo’s Billboard Latin Music Awards Telecast

With COVID-19 restrictions now lifted entirely, the 2023 edition of the Billboard Latin Music Awards promises to be more celebratory than ever when it airs live on Telemundo from Miami’s Watsco Center on Oct. 5.

“We are all ready to party,” says Mary Black-Suárez, who produces the show through her MBS Entertainment. Here are five highlights to watch for.

1. In his first-ever awards show appearance, Mexican star Peso Pluma, who leads the list of this year’s finalists, will perform his hit “La Bebé” (with Yng Lvcas); the evocative “Nueva Vida” from his new album, Génesis; and a third song with a surprise guest.

2. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the death of banda diva Jenni Rivera (who died in December 2012), her daughter Chiquis Rivera will pay homage in a medley of essential hits like “Basta Ya,” “Inolvidable” and “Ya lo Sé” with assistance from norteño group Calibre 50 and Banda Cañaveral.

3. After topping the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart with the irresistible “LALA,” Myke Towers will perform his hit live for the first time on TV. As a bonus, he’ll also premiere his new song with Yandel, “Borracho y Loco.”

4. Every year, ­Billboard and Telemundo recognize standout achievements that go beyond chart performance with special awards. Recipients in 2023 include reggaetón superstar Ivy Queen, who will receive the Icon award for her pioneering work in the genre that opened the door to women in urban music.

• Premieres at this year’s event will include Marc Anthony performing his new single with ranchera star Pepe Aguilar, as well as Marshmello making his first appearance at a Latin music awards show, performing “El Merengue” with Manuel Turizo. (The song is a finalist in the tropical song of the year category.)

For event dates, tickets and more on the conference, go to billboardlatinmusicweek.com.

This story originally appeared in the Sept. 23, 2023, issue of Billboard.