The 26th Annual Latin Grammy Ceremony is upon us and this year might prove to be one of the most exciting yet.
There has been a breadth of incredible music this year from across Latin America and Europe, but some of the biggest nominees of the night include Bad Bunny and CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso—who lead with 12 and 10 nominations, respectively—as well as Natalia Lafourcade, Rauw Alejandro, and many more.
Historically, both the Grammys and the Latin Grammys haven’t done the best job of recognizing Black and Afro-Latine artists. While there have been efforts in recent years to introduce award categories for previously overlooked genres such as Reggaeton and Rap/Hip-Hop, it’s fair to say that the Recording Academy often marches to the beat of its own drum, following guidelines and rules that don’t always align with public sentiment. Members of the Recording Academy—the group responsible for selecting the Latin Grammy award winners—are made up of more than 4,000 individuals from 37 countries, each bringing their own perspectives, preferences, and biases.
This can be seen with Bad Bunny—the most dominant figure in Latin music—who still can’t seem to break out of the Urban Music category. In 2023, he lost the Album of the Year award for Un Verano Sin Ti to Karol G’s Mañana Será Bonito. However, there are signs things could shake out differently tonight, following the success of his historic DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS album and residency.
This year, the Recording Academy has drawn the ire of Mexican music fans for snubbing 111xpantia, the acclaimed album by Fuerza Régida, and for, once again, overlooking Mexican hitmaker Xavi. Known for his signature romantic tumbados and unique voice, Xavi is already a decorated new artist with wins including youngest songwriter of the year at 2025 ASCAP Latin Music Awards, Artist of the Year (New) at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards, and chart-topping hits like “La Diabla” and “La Víctima.”
Below are our predictions for the most coveted awards of the 2025 Latin Grammys. But music fans know there is often a misalignment with who the general public hopes will win versus who The Recording Academy chooses for those wins.
The Latin Grammys will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will air live on Univision, UniMás, and Galavisión at 8pm EST on Thursday, November 13th.
Nominees: Maluma, “Cosas Pendientes;” Bad Bunny, “DtMF;” Trueno Feat. Young Miko, “En La City;” Bad Bunny, “LA MuDANZA;” Álvaro Díaz Feat. Nathy Peluso, “Xq Eres Así”
Who Should Win: Álvaro Díaz Feat. Nathy Peluso, “Xq Eres Así”
This track garnered a lot of buzz when it dropped as an alternate ending to SAYONARA, the second installment of Álvaro Díaz’s three-part musical universe that began with his 2021 project Felicilandia. Nathy Peluso was a great choice for a feature not only for her rise to international stardom but is even more impactful considering the recent release of her highly anticipated salsa project MALPORTADA which was produced in Puerto Rico by Manuel Lara (Kali Uchis, Bad Bunny), Servando Primera and Rawayana’s Beto Montenegro.
Her verse brings another perspective to Diaz’s signature heartbroken loverboy storytelling; both hers and his. The collaboration also helps fans from both sides of the fence to find each other and offers musical elements that sound fresh for the award category.
Who Will Win: Bad Bunny, “LA MuDANZA”
In “LA MuDANZA”, Benito subtly revisits his YHLQMDLG era. There’s always something extra special about a track where he shares a bit more of his lore with audiences. Rapping through a narrative flow similar to that of “25/8” Benito recounts his nativity story. Only instead of a booming trap beat he’s accompanied by an uproarious salsa band that lays the foundation for this explosive closing track.
The fact that this (salsa) song is nominated under the Best Urban Song is a bit puzzling but the band’s traditional performance paired with Benito’s licks slightly edges it into the category I suppose, and makes for a truly unique single that deserved a lot more air time.
Nominees: Bad Bunny, DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS; Fariana, Underwater; Nicki Nicole, Naiki; Papatinho, MPC (Música Popular Carioca); Yandel, Elyte
Who Should Win: Bad Bunny, DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS
Needless to say, DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS is demonstrative of an incredible level of skill, sound engineering, creative narrative, cultural and historical storytelling, world-building, political commentary, genre-bending and blending, and so on.
There are plenty of Bad Bunny’s signature musical elements included in this project that would merit the Best Urban Music Album win as he brings forth strongly-developed repertoire of rapping ability, Latin Trap and reggaeton infused with synth pop styles, and his unique mix of melodies and media that makes him a viral, charting sensation every time he drops new music. However, it simply wouldn’t be fair if he took home every single coveted award this year.
Who Will Win: Naiki, Nicki Nicole
Argentine rapper Nicki Nicole has released highly popular projects such as “Parte de Mí” (2021) and “ALMA”(2023) as well as a few hit singles and remixes that have garnered her a rapidly growing following and international recognition.
Despite the fan disappointment with Naiki, the project is very well produced and engineered. Instrumental elements are sharp and the smaller details in each track compound become the highlights of the project. Fluttery synths, the texture of tapping snares, and moments with strong lyrical delivery keep the project interesting.
Bad Bunny will likely have a big night with the top awards. Still, I can see The Recording Academy giving this award to someone like Nicki Nicole for a combination of reasons—acknowledgment of her career as a whole, the heavy hip-hop nature of the project, and her global reach.
Nominees: Marilina Bertoldi, PARA QUIEN TRABAJAS Vol. I; CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, Papota; Judeline, Bodhiria; Latin Mafia, TODOS LOS DÍAS TODO EL DÍA; Rusowsky, DAISY
Who Should Win: Judeline, Bodhiria
All the nominees this year represent the diverse, impactful, and electrifying sounds that can only derive from hungry artists on the rise. This year Judeline, also known as Lara Fernández’, made waves with her critically acclaimed breakout album.
In it, the singer’s hauntingly angelic voice shines as she blends the spiritual inspiration of Andalusian Semana Santacelebrations with flamenco and Spanish and Arab folkloric melodies. Featuring production from some of Spain’s golden boys and her longtime collaborators, Tuiste and Mayo, the project is wholly unique, sounding unlike anything else circulating in the Latine market.
She rose to notoriety after being featured on DATA, the critically acclaimed album from legendary Puerto Rican producer Tainy, but had already drawn attention with popular tracks like “TÚ ET MOI” and “2+1,” which also featured background vocals by Álvaro Díaz.
Who Will Win: CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, Papota
I don’t think there’s any other act this year with quite as explosive a trajectory as Colombian duo CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso. They have been on a meteoric rise the last few years but especially since their viral, and widely beloved NPR Tiny Desk concert which has since garnered 45 million views.
This year alone they’ve opened for Kendrick Lamar’s “Grand National” tour and the duo has played at some of the world’s top festivals including Glastonbury, Coachella, and Lollapalooza. During this award season they are making history as the most nominated Argentine-artist in a single edition of the Latin Grammy Awards and whether they win Best Alternative Music Album or not, they are the one of the most nominated act this year and will absolutely leave Las Vegas with at least one trophy in hand, if not more.
Nominees: Big Soto Featuring Eladio Carrión, “El Favorito De Mami;” Trueno, “Fresh;” Akapellah Featuring Trueno, “Parriba;” J Noa & Vakero, “Sudor Y Tinta;” Arcángel, “Thc”
Who Should Win: J Noa & Vakero, “Sudor Y Tinta”
J Noa is one of the skilled female rappers in Latin hip-hop and though she is still an up and comer without a sizable audience to back her just yet she is relentless about her craft. “Sudor y Tinta” continues to exemplify her powerful pen game and her focus on speaking truth to her past mental health struggles and the realities of institutionalized oppression whether it be poverty, racism, sexism and more. She embodies the spirit of rap’s early aughts, predominantly used as a poetic medium to speak truth to power. Vakero’s smoky vocals and rhythmic flow serves as a perfect pairing to J Noa’s rapid fire storytelling.
Who Will Win: Trueno, “Fresh”
Trueno’s upwards trajectory the last few years is reflective of his ability to thread together a catchy track that injects self-aggrandizing and flirtatious witticisms with rhythms and melodies that keep your head bobbing.
What stands out with “Fresh” is the crisp production and funky, retro-inspired beat. With only three individual albums on his belt (not including EL ÚLTIMO BAILE’s two separate deluxe releases) Trueno seems to have hit his stride and could have created a universally palatable track that would please The Recording Academy.
Nominees: Rauw Alejandro Feat. Alexis & Fido, “Baja Pa’ Acá;” Bad Bunny, “Voy A Llevarte Pa PR;” Nicky Jam, “Dile A Él;” Lenny Tavárez, “Brillar;” Yandel Feat. Tego Calderón, “Reggaeton Malandro”
Who Should Win: Bad Bunny, “Voy A Llevarte Pa PR”
“Voy A Llevarte Pa PR” is one of those tracks that has become an instant classic similar to Benito’s own “Safaera.” Starting with an opening chant that took the world by storm, “acho Pe Erre es otra cosa,” along with a masterful use of the samples “Cazando Voy” by Angel y Khriz, “La Barria” by Wisin & Yandel feat. Héctor “El Father,” and “Me Quiere Besar” by Alex y Fido, it easily transports listeners back to reggaeton’s golden era with Benito’s own special contemporary twists.
Not only does it instantly ignite one’s innermost feral energy but Benito took the title seriously as this song and album did in fact bring people from all over the world to his summer residency in Puerto Rico.
Who Will Win: Rauw Alejandro Feat. Alexis & Fido, “Baja Pa’ Acá”
Rauw Alejandro dropped one of the year’s most popular albums that was ever so slightly overshadowed by his fellow countryman but I think the collaboration with Alexis & Fido is what makes “Baja Pa’ Acá” special.
Rather than being inspired by reggaeton’s golden era this one sounds as though it could have been released in 2005 or 2025 and still would fit perfectly into the cultural zeitgeist. Rauw Alejandro wore his heart on his sleeve this year as well with an album dedicated to his homeland along with the accompanying deluxe project Cosa Nuestra: Capitulo 0. Coupled with his well thought out and beautifully choreographed Broadway-inspired tour, I can see him taking this one home.
Nominees: Alleh, Annasofia, Yerai Cortés, Juliane Gamboa, Camila Guevara, Isadora, Alex Luna, Paloma Morphy, Sued Nunes, Ruzzi
Who Should Win: Sued Nunes
There are strong contenders hailing from Brazil for several awards this year, Nunes being one of them. Her album Segunda-feira is a beautifully produced project highlighting the singers’ ability to bring the traditional ancestral sounds of the region into a contemporary lens. Every track sounds fresh, full-bodied, and in some moments experimental as she combines traditional percussion with dreamy, angelic synths.
Who Will Win: Annasofia
With only one EP and several hit singles, Annasofia’s work demonstrates not only her musical ear but her versatile ability to weave from salsa, to pop rock, and even electronic pop layered with rapid fire rapping. The singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist is also an alum of the The Art House Academy founded by producer Julio Reyes Copello where previous alumni such as Joaquina and Ela Taubert have taken home the coveted award.
Nominees: Bad Bunny, “Baile Inolvidable;” Bad Bunny, “DtMF;” CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, “El Día Del Amigo;” CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, “#Tetas*;” Conociendo Rusia and Jorge Drexler, “Desastres Fabulosos;” Zoe Gotusso, “Lara;” Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido;” Natalia Lafourcade, “Cancionera;” Liniker Feat. Amaro Freitas & Anavitória, “Ao Teu Lado;” Alejandro Sanz, “Palmeras en el jardín”
Who Should Win: Bad Bunny, “DtMF”
“DtMF,” is a touching ode to Benito’s homeland and the romantic minutia of growing up there. The gentle taps of percussion resemble the heartbeat of an artist recollecting moments long past between lovers, friends, and family as well as hopeful desire for his country to retain its independence and local culture.
The track has been everything from a TikTok trend about mourning love ones to the soundtrack of mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s victory party last week—a testament to its versatility. In one setting, it tugs at your heartstrings; in another, it drives listeners to their feet at a dance party.
Who Will Win: Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
The Colombian powerhouse has a massive fanbase and if The Recording Academy strongly values streaming numbers in their judging process, that alone will make a huge impact on decision making as very few artists can pull numbers like her. With its earworm melody, relatable yearnful lover-girl lyrics, and popularity on airwaves this year all coupled with her loyal fanbase, Karol G is the most predictable winner for the category.
Nominees:Bad Bunny, “BAILE INoLVIDABLE;” Andrés Cepeda, “Bogotá;” Natalia Lafourcade, “Cancionera;” Bad Bunny, “DtMF;” CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, “El Día Del Amigo;” Mon Laferte, “Otra Noche De Llorar;” Alejandro Sanz, “Palmeras En El Jardín;” Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido;” CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, “#Tetas;” Liniker, “Veludo Marrom”
Who Should Win: Bad Bunny, “BAILE INOLVIDABLE”
Song of the Year is stacked, so I want to give a special shoutout to the emotional “Veludo Marrom” by Brazilian singer Liniker. The track explodes halfway through with orchestral instrumentals and angelic backup vocals, creating a breathtaking release. It may not be as mainstream as many of the other contenders in this category but “Veludo Marrom” holds its own among the heavy hitters.
Still, it’s hard to top “BAILE INOLVIDABLE.” Salsa is a genre that demands serious musical skill, and for years, few would’ve imagined Benito pulling off a salsa track that could get your abuela on her feet. What makes this song so special is the collaboration: Bad Bunny sings alongside the impeccable instrumental contributions of Los Sobrinos, students trained at the Escuela Libre de Música in San Juan. There are moments where he seems genuinely hypnotized by their performance, taking on the role of bandleader and pushing the students to give more and more.
Who Will Win: Bad Bunny, “BAILE INOLVIDABLE”
If anyone could make it interesting, it would be Natalia Lafourcade’s “Cancionera,” which was recorded live on analog tape in a single take and exemplifies her ability to inject raw musicality into her studio projects. She’s a Latin Grammy darling—the most decorated Latina musical artist in history—and a creative powerhouse known for bridging the gap between modern experimentalism and traditional artistry.
But ultimately, I think this goes to Benito. The song is tightly written and emotionally resonant, touching on the lifelong grief and memories left by the loss of a true love and the brevity of life itself. It’s an ode to the legendary salseros from the island, to the students who brought it to life, to the lovers, and to the beauty of life’s smallest moments.
Nominees: Rauw Alejandro, Cosa Nuestra; Bad Bunny, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS; CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, Papota; Gloria Estefan, Raíces; Vicente García, Puñito De Yocahu; Joaquina, al romper la burbuja; Natalia Lafourcade, Cancionera; Carín León, Palabra de To’s (Seca); Liniker, Caju; Elena Rose, En Las Nubes – Con Mis Panas; Alejandro Sanz, ¿Y Ahora Qué?
Who Should Win: Bad Bunny, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
Bad Bunny unapologetically defined his political and cultural identity using unparalleled creative conception, immersive historical representations, the many thoughtful, cultural-lore defining artistic partnerships, and unique musical collaborations. His decision to skip touring in the United States was both a shock and was met with celebration by the Latino community as inhumane immigration policies continue to threaten the vulnerable immigrant communities within the country.
DtMF can be considered Benito’s career defining project thus far as well as one that will come to be defined as one of the most important projects of the decade. Rather than tap his roster of legendary reggaeton colleagues, Benito opted to source rising, hometown acts to feature in the album. One can’t forget the powerful short film he released just before the album dropped featuring legendary Puerto Rican filmmaker Jacobo Morales and the thumbnails on YouTube packed with historical facts about Puerto Rico written by historian Jorell Meléndez-Badillo. On the heels of his exclusive Puerto Rico residency, where over the course of 30 shows Bad Bunny spotlighted many of Puerto Rico’s musical, political, and artistic legends, the global superstar prepares for his highly anticipated world tour meaning the DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS’ takeover continues to keep the world in Benito’s hands for at least one more calendar year. This level of cultural force du jour and historical archiving can only be rewarded with the Academy’s top prize.
Who Will Win: Gloria Estefan, Raíces
It’s important to note that The Recording Academy faced backlash in 2019 when no reggaeton artists were nominated for awards in major categories despite its resurgence in mainstream popularity. Since then, new categories have been introduced such as “Best Reggaeton Performance” and “Best Rap/Hip-Hop Song” which can sometimes serve to pigeon hole the very same artists it was meant to highlight. There is a possibility that DtMF may not fit perfectly into the guidelines by which The Recording Academy uses to determine the meaning of “traditional” for their most coveted awards.
Estefan, a legend within her own right, has garnered buzz for her latest project Raíces, her first entirely Spanish-language album in 18 years. Inspired by similar themes as those of her acclaimed 1993 project Mi Tierra, Estefan teamed up with her husband and creative partner Emilio Estefan Jr. to create a love letter to Cuba through a contemporary lens. The project has been recognized for its impeccable engineering and based on the 2024 Latin Grammy AOTY winner, Juan Luis Guerra, there could be a chance that The Recording Academy opts to honor a Latin music veteran with a project that is more aligned with what they would interpret as the traditional musical sounds of Cuba.