Elvis Crespo, the Puerto Rican merengue star, will be honored with the Billboard Hall of Fame Award at the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards. The ceremony airs live on Thursday, October 23 on Telemundo and streaming platforms. It marks a milestone in Crespo’s three-decade career.
From “Suavemente” to Global Collaborations
Crespo’s recognition highlights his influence on Latin music. His global hits “Suavemente” and “Tu Sonrisa” topped the charts in 1998. Those songs turned him into a cultural phenomenon. He later bridged genres with crossover tracks like “Azukita” with Steve Aoki, Daddy Yankee, and Play-N-Skillz. He also scored with “Bailar” alongside Deorro. These projects show his ability to evolve while staying true to merengue.
The awards show will feature a special performance by Crespo. He will be joined by Dominican artists Ebenezer Guerra, Toño Rosario, and La Insuperable. Together, they will deliver a tribute to merengue’s enduring power. As Crespo said, “Receiving the Billboard Hall of Fame Award is one of the greatest honors of my career. This award is not only for me, it’s for merengue, for Puerto Rico, and for every fan who has danced and celebrated life with my music. To share this moment on the Billboard Latin Music Awards stage is truly unforgettable.” His words reflect gratitude and pride.
Latin Music Week in Miami
The 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards will also showcase Carlos Vives, Peso Pluma, Ozuna, Laura Pausini, Wisin, and many others. The event coincides with Billboard Latin Music Week, held October 20–24 at The Fillmore Miami Beach. Fans can attend panels, showcases, and exclusive events. Tickets for both the awards and Latin Music Week are available now through Ticketmaster and BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com.
Elvis Crespo’s induction is more than a personal achievement. It is a recognition of merengue’s global legacy. It also shows the genre’s power to unite audiences across generations. On October 23, the spotlight will shine on Crespo’s journey and the vibrant future of Latin music.
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