The 2020 Latin Grammys took place Thursday night (Nov. 19) with a “music makes us human” theme that highlighted musical excellence and the power of music in times of despair. The 21st annual event showcased diverse stories of hope, community, sense of purpose, and celebration.
Victor Manuelle, Ricardo Montaner, Jesus Navarro, Ivy Queen, Rauw Alejandro, and Sergio George kicked off the night with a special tribute to salsa legend Hector Lavoe. The night also featured memorable performances across the Latin music spectrum including reggaeton, pop, Regional Mexican, and tropical bangers.
Natalia Lafourcade, Carlos Vives, and Rosalia tied as the night’s biggest winners with three wins each. Other winners included Bad Bunny, Alejandro Sanz, Camilo, Kany Garcia, and Mike Bahia, who won the coveted best new artist title.
In case you missed any of the excitement, Billboard compiled highlights from the ceremony. Check them out below.
First-Time Winners
Many artists walked away with their first-ever Latin Grammy during the 21st annual awards show. Some of the most noticeable wins included Mike Bahia for best new artist, Camilo for best pop song with “TuTu,” Chiquis for best banda album with Playlist, and producer of the year winners Andrés Torres and Mauricio Rengifo, to name a few.
Sebastian Yatra & Guaynaa
If the colorful balloons and smiling sun were any indications, Sebastian Yatra and Guaynaa infected viewers at home with their feel-good performance of “Chica Ideal.” Yatra also paid tribute to Bob Marley and The Wailers by singing his own rendition of “3 Little Birds.” Both Yatra and Guaynaa were nominated at this year’s awards.
Pitbull & The Frontline Heroes
Pitbull made a special appearance at the Latin Grammys to not only pay tribute to the frontline heroes of the global pandemic but also perform with them. Presenting his single “I Believe That We Will Win,” the Cuban-American artist and businessman was joined on stage by a talented band of first responders.
The Living Legends Tribute
One of the highlights of the night was when Natalia Jimenez, Juanes, Leslie Grace, and Prince Royce joined forces for a heartwarming “Living Legends” tribute. Jimenez sang “Hey” by Julio Iglesias, Juanes sang Roberto Carlos’ “El Gato Que Esta Triste y Azul,” and bachata crooners Leslie and Royce performed Juan Luis Guerra’s “Burbujas de Amor.”
Anuel’s Explosive Performance
For the closing number, seven-time nominee Anuel delivered one of the best performances of the night. The Latin trap and reggaeton artist kicked-off his set with the honest “Estres Postraumatico” before turning up the party with an explosive and rhythmic performance of “El Manual.” Both songs form part of his nominated album Emmanuel.