Cuban talent took center stage at the 2026 Billboard Latin Music Awards, making a historic mark on one of the most prestigious nights in the Latin music industry. The vibrant sounds of Havana's neighborhoods resonated through the venue as Dale Pututi, Nesty, and Erick Brian delivered a performance brimming with Cuban rhythm, dance, and flavor.
The ceremony, held on Thursday, October 22, at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, was broadcast by Telemundo and Peacock. It attracted major Latin music figures and showcased a strong representation of Cuban artists, both on stage and walking the blue carpet.
Dale Pututi, Nesty, and Erick Brian got the audience moving with a medley of "Efímero," their July release, and "El Doctorado," a Cuban spin on Tony Dize's popular hit. Backed by a DJ, a lively troupe of dancers, and a stage set reminiscent of Havana's street sound systems, the artists, clad in denim, infused the gala with the dynamic energy of Cuban genres. Telemundo highlighted this performance as a standout moment for the genre's fans.
Prior to the show, Dale Pututi expressed his excitement on social media, stating, "Cuban kids singing at Billboard for the first time. Reparto at Billboards."
Cuban presence extended beyond the stage. Wow Popy, famous for his hit "Leroley," also attended, strutting down the blue carpet in a black three-piece suit paired with white sneakers. He shared his joy at being part of the event, posting several images on social media with a grateful message: "Thanks to Billboard Latin for the invite; I'm living a dream."
Among the Cuban attendees were Los Titi members, with Antonio Sierra Riera capturing the group's red carpet moments, celebrating the genre's presence at the event with the words: "From Cuba to the world. Reparto at Billboard."
Other notable Cuban figures included Seidy La Niña, Rey Tony, and Helabusador. Seidy La Niña made headlines by approaching award-winner Rosalía, asking if she would sing Cuban reparto.
Eduardo Antonio, known as El Divo de Placetas, made a memorable appearance with his signature extravagant style. He shared photos and videos from the event on Instagram, including a meeting with an artist known as La Reina, @machadooficial on social media. "The Divo with the Queen," he captioned, expressing his admiration with trademark enthusiasm, "You're spectacular, I love you."
This Cuban artistic showcase followed another significant genre event. On October 20, Bebeshito, Wow Popy, DJ Conds, Helabusador, and Rey Tony participated in the "Reparto: Cuba's Modern-Day Soundscape" panel at the Faena Forum in Miami Beach during Billboard Latin Music Week. The panel focused on the international growth and evolution of reparto, a genre increasingly gaining recognition beyond Cuba. Fans of Cuban urban music had eagerly anticipated the Billboard appearances of Dale Pututi, Nesty, and Erick Brian, and their performance did not disappoint.
Key Highlights from the 2026 Billboard Latin Music Awards
Who represented Cuban music at the 2026 Billboard Latin Music Awards?
Dale Pututi, Nesty, and Erick Brian were the main Cuban artists who performed, while others like Wow Popy, Seidy La Niña, Rey Tony, and Helabusador were notable attendees.
What was the significance of the Cuban performance at the awards?
The performance marked a historic moment as it showcased Cuban reparto music on a major international stage, highlighting the genre's growing influence and energy.