Everything You Should Know About the 2015 Billboard Latin Music Awards but Don't

A cheat sheet to the biggest players in the game

By Diana Nguyen Apr 30, 2015 1:48 AMTags
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You know Jennifer Lopez. You know Oscar de la Renta. You may even know a few Spanish-English crossover hits like Enrique Iglesias' "Bailando." But come Thursday's 2015 Billboard Latin Music Awards, how much will you actually recognize about the tunes and talent—and fashion houses that dress them?

If the answer is not too much, do not fret. Here's the ultimate primer, a cheat sheet of sorts, of all the people, music and trends spicing things up in Miami this week.

The People
Romeo Santos is to Latin music as Justin Timberlake is to pop. The American singer, songwriter, producer and actor holds the record for the most Billboard Latin Music Award nominations in a year, with 21 entries in 16 categories. The "Bachata" singer—who is also nominated for a collab with Drake—better watch out though, because Enrique is proving to be stiff competition, with 19 entries in 15 categories.

J Balvin is the new kid on the block, but one to be reckoned with as a 12-time finalist this year. The Colombian heartthrob blew up the Latin charts with his reggaeton hits, including "6 AM" featuring Farruko.

Becky G may be known for her recent chart topper "Shower," but the 18-year-old American singer is being lauded as the next Jennifer Lopez for her vibrant personality, dedicated work ethic and down-to-earth perspective.

The Categories
Latin Rhythm Song of the Year is one of the most competitive categories this year, with two club-favored nominations from J Balvin, Nicky Jam's "Travesuras," and Wisin's dance hit "Adrenalina," featuring J.Lo and Ricky Martin.

Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year, Male is also a tight race, as all finalists—Santos, Balvin, Inglesias and Prince Royce (a clean-cut version of Justin Bieber)—draw in fans with their smooth voices and ridiculously good looks.

Latin Rhythm Songs Artist of the Year, Solo category pegs Wisin and Yandel against each other. The musical artists once formed a super successful Puerto Rican reggaeton duo and have several hits under their belts.

Hot Latin Songs Artist of Year, Female finalist Chiquis is going up against her late mother, Jenni Rivera. The New York Times once labeled Rivera as the most influential woman in the regional Mexican music genre.

The Trends
We've already predicted that attendees will bank on bold everything come the red carpet. But instead of the Hollywood-favored red lip, fuchsia might be the go-to color trend.

Rafael Cennamo may not be a household name like Oscar de la Renta or Carolina Herrera…yet. But it wouldn't be surprising to see the Miami-based designer's use of bold colors and luxe fabrics on the international audience at the awards show.