Much like everything else throughout 2020 and in the beginning of 2021, awards shows have taken a huge hit due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Even though fans have been consuming more TV, movies, and music than ever before while locked up at home, audiences have seemed disinterested in the ceremonies that honor these arts, largely opting out of viewing the hours-long ceremonies in 2021.
While the Golden Globes, Emmys, and Grammys all saw their ratings drop this year, February’s Premio Lo Nuestro stands out as a notable exception--which just further proves that Latin music is dominating multiple industries right now. Now, as we prepare for The Latin American Music Awards, they’re hoping to find similar success.
The Latin American Music Awards debuted in 2015, broadcasting live from Los Angeles‘ Dolby Theater. The ceremony aired live from the same Hollywood venue each subsequent year before going on hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic--but now, they’re back.
Making the move to Florida, presumably due to their more lax COVID-19 restrictions, the show returns on April 15 live from a new venue: the BB&T Center in Sunrise. Since South Florida has served as a second home of sorts for many of Latin music‘s biggest artists, this could make producers consider keeping the ceremony in the Sunshine State for years to come.
As for the ceremony itself, the Latin American Music Awards is expected to feature performances from the biggest names in music right now, drawing fans of different genres across the spectrum of Latin music.
Artists including Maluma, Carlos Vives, Nicky Jam, and even Carrie Underwood have already been announced as performers, along with Karol G, who ties J Balvin as the most nominated artist of the night with nine nominations. Bad Bunny and Ozuna aren’t far behind them with eight and seven nominations, respectively, and are also expected to be in attendance.
Considering the fact that this show is largely fan-voted, and the fact that Latin music continues to expand its reach within the United States, this ceremony could draw more viewers than any other awards show this year. If you want to give involved in all of the festivities and help your favorite artists feel the love, have your say by voting on Twitter or the Latin AMAs website. Some of the categories include Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Favorite Male & Female Artist of the Year.
The Latin American Music Awards airs at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 15, on Telemundo.