La India received the Billboard Latin Women in Music Pioneer Award and shined not only with a truly powerful performance, but with a speech full of generosity and gratitude for those who believed and supported her in her beginnings and those who continue to give her new opportunities.
Accompanied by a large all-female orchestra, and with producer Sergio George – one of her early mentors – on piano, the “Princess of Salsa” brought all her power and energy to the stage, reminding us why the her “godmother”. Celia Cruz gave her the nickname “The Princess of Salsa”.
In a stunning white sequined suit, she began singing the classic 'Ese Hombre' and then performed, alongside Luis Figueroa, her hit originally recorded with Marc Anthony 'Vivir lo Nuestro'. With obvious joy and passion for her craft, she sang and danced with a smile, infecting everyone with her energy.
Moments later, she received the Pioneer Award from her friend, actress Maripily Rivera.
“First of all, I want to thank God for creating us and music. I want to thank Advertising sign who have always been here by my side since I was very young,” she said with emotion, thanking a number of key figures in her career, including her manager, as well as producer Sergio George and Salsa queen Celia Cruz.
La India performs at the Billboard Latin Women in Music special on June 8, 2024 at the Telemundo Center in Miami.
John Parra/TELEMUNDO
“I know from heaven, she is proud of me. And I dedicate it to her and her 'Little Cotton Head,' my godfather Pedro Knight,” she said, pointing up with a smile. Also, “I would like to thank Gloria Estefan for inspiring us,” he added.
Since the release of her first album, Dicen Que Soy in 1994, La India inspired the beginning of a new era and sound for the salsa genre, representing female empowerment and becoming a voice for Latina women.
In its second annual edition, Billboard Mujeres en la Música also honored Karol G as Woman of the Year, Gloria Estefan as Legend, La India as Pioneer, Ángela Aguilar with the Musical Dynasty Award, Camila Cabello with the Global Award Impact, Kany García as Spirit of Change and Kali Uchis as Rising Star.
Except for the air Telemundo on Sunday at 9 p.m. ET, the ceremony is also available on the Telemundo app and Peacock.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/latin/la-india-billboard-women-in-music-2024-power-award-1235705405/
