From significant career milestones to exciting new music releases, major announcements, and those smaller yet meaningful moments, Billboard editors shine a light on the uplifting developments within the vibrant world of Latin music. Here’s a detailed overview of what made waves in the Latin music scene this week.
Experience the Emotional Depth of Becky G’s Documentary Rebbeca
Becky G has unveiled her deeply personal and artistically rich documentary, Rebbeca, during a captivating premiere at the Tribeca Festival on Thursday (June 12) at the iconic United Palace in Washington Heights, New York. The film, directed by Gabriella Cavanagh and Jennifer Tiexiera, strips away the glimmers of fame to present an intimate portrait of Becky G as Rebbeca, a proud Mexican-American woman behind the acclaimed music sensation. Captured during a transformative period in her life — as she prepared for her inaugural headlining tour, the Mi Casa, Tu Casa Tour, and worked diligently on her música mexicana debut album Esquinas (2023) — the documentary encapsulates the essence of resilience, a theme Becky G beautifully articulated to Billboard Español. With compelling and occasionally tearful storytelling, this film celebrates her rich cultural heritage as a Latina hailing from Southern California while showcasing her artistic evolution.
Following the screening, the evening gracefully transitioned into an engaging Q&A session featuring Becky G along with directors Cavanagh and Tiexiera, moderated by Tefi Pessoa. They delved into the creative journey behind the documentary and highlighted the critical importance of addressing pressing societal issues such as immigration and family separation. “My grandfather’s immigration narrative plays a significant role in my story, and sharing this now, amidst a time when many in our community face persecution, feels incredibly urgent,” Becky G emphasized. “This project isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating space for our past, present, and future selves.” The event concluded with a heartfelt acoustic performance alongside guitarist Ethan Riding, where she revisited her breakout 2013 rap hit, “Becky from the Block,” a nostalgic tribute to her roots. She then seamlessly transitioned into “Querido Abuelo,” a poignant bolero dedicated to her cherished late grandfather.
Johann Vera & Christian Chávez’s Powerful Remix of “Closet”
Just shy of a year after the release of “Closet,” an intensely personal ballad through which Johann Vera publicly embraced his queer identity, the Ecuadorian pop sensation has collaborated with the talented Mexican artist Christian Chávez to deliver a fresh rendition of this moving track, perfectly timed for Pride Month. “It took me two years to find the courage within myself to share this, but it ultimately pushed me towards honesty and transparency,” Vera shared with Billboard about the song. “‘Closet’ is fundamentally about acceptance, and my goal is to be as truthful as possible in my expression.”
“In a time when minorities face increasing adversity, Christian Chávez and I proudly present #Closet to remind everyone that love must always prevail above all else,” Vera stated in an impactful post on Instagram, emphasizing the song’s message of hope and unity.
Arcángel Celebrates Fatherhood with His Son’s Musical Debut
Arcángel is commemorating Father’s Day in a profoundly special manner. The renowned Latin trap and reggaetón artist has released “Gohan y Goku,” which marks the official musical debut of his son, Austin. “I had already envisioned this moment — it feels like déjà vu,” Arcángel expresses in a portion of the lyrics. “This song serves as a symbolic tribute to the deep bond between a father and son and celebrates a legacy that continues through the medium of music,” as stated in a press release. “Arcángel is introducing Austin to the world from the most genuine perspective — as a devoted father, mentor, and guide.”
Latin Artists Unite to Denounce ICE Raids and Advocate for Immigrant Rights
A multitude of Latin artists have voiced their unwavering support for the immigrant community in the United States amid the ongoing ICE raids and mass deportation efforts that characterized the Trump administration. “It no longer resembles the country of hope that we were so often told about,” DannyLux expressed in a heartfelt social media post. For a comprehensive overview of artists’ reactions — featuring notable names like Fuerza Regida, Ivan Cornejo, and Chiquis — you can explore the complete list here.
Billboard Latin Editors Celebrate Achievement with Award Wins
The 2025 Ritmo Latino Entertainment Awards were unveiled on social media platforms on June 10, with Bad Bunny emerging as the night’s biggest winner, securing a remarkable seven awards, including the coveted title of Artist of the Year.
After a two-decade hiatus, the awards have made a triumphant return this year. Initially intended to be held live at the Coca-Cola Music Hall in San Juan, the ceremony adapted to a digital format “due to unavoidable scheduling conflicts,” as stated in a press release. For a complete list of winners from this prestigious event, click here.
Billboard’s Jessica Roiz and Griselda Flores, along with Billboard Español’s Isabela Raygoza, were honored with the favorite music reporter award, highlighting their impactful contributions to music journalism.
Additional reporting by Isabela Raygoza.
