Rauw Alejandro’s Free Concert in Dominican Republic & More Uplifting Moments in Latin Music

From career milestones to new music releases to major announcements and those little important moments, Billboard editors highlight uplifting moments in Latin music. Here’s what happened in the Latin music world this week.

Rauw Alejandro Offers Free Show in Dominican Republic

The Puerto Rican artist delighted his fans on Dec. 13 with a free concert called Noche Caribeña at Parque Eugenio María de Hostos in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, bringing together over 40,000 attendees to dance to the rhythm of his hits. Following his Cosa Nuestra tour, the event featured guest performances by local stars such as Toño Rosario, Wilfrido Vargas, NTG, Dalvin La Melodía, YK It’s Junaa, J Noa, Jezzy, Jey One and Saso. The night culminated with a surprise appearance by Puerto Rican rapper Clarent. “Thank you Santo Domingo for being with me this past Saturday at our ‘Caribbean Night,’ a gift from the heart for you,” the superstar wrote on Instagram.

Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation Announces 2026 Noel Schajris Scholarship

The Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation announced Argentine singer/songwriter and pianist Noel Schajris will sponsor their next Prodigy Scholarship, also known as the 2026 Noel Schajris Scholarship. It will go towards a bachelor’s degree at Berklee College of Music for the fall semester and will include tuition, housing and wrap-around services valued at up to $250,000.

“As a kid, I dreamed of making a living from music. Life and the public have given me a career and the chance to express my soul through songs, and that enormous blessing translates into the opportunity for music lovers to enjoy that incredible experience,” says Schajris in a statement. “There is nothing more beautiful than learning, nor anything more important than education. I can’t wait to hear all that talent, which I have no doubt will move me and fill my heart.”

Executive director of the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation, Raquel “Rocky” Egusquiza, added, “We continue to be moved by the generosity of the artists and members of our music community and their commitment to the legacy of Latin music and its future creators.” 

Spotify Celebrates Karol G’s Billion-Stream Triumphs

Spotify release its latest episode of Billions Club: The Series, starring global superstar Karol G as she celebrates eight songs surpassing one billion streams. The fan-favorite hits including “Provenza,” “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido,” “China” and “Tusa” with Nicki Minaj. The seven-minute episode offers an intimate look at Karol G as she gets ready in a hair salon. In a lighthearted moment, her stylist asks, “What comes first, hair color or music?” to which the Colombian artist replies with heartfelt simplicity, “I think feeling comes first.” The episode captures Karol G in a relaxed vibe discussing the creative process of making some of her hits. Watch the complete episode here.

Eladio Carrión Tees Off for Puerto Rico’s Future

Eladio Carrión hosted the first-ever Sauce Boyz Country Club Golf Tournament at Coco Beach Golf & Country Club in Río Grande, Puerto Rico on Wednesday (Dec. 17). The event combined sports, philanthropy, and community engagement, aiming to raise funds for social initiatives that support Puerto Rican children and youth. Through Sauce for a Cause and the Rimas Foundation, the proceeds will be allocated to nonprofit organizations actively working on community projects across the island.

“Seeing so many people showing up, supporting, and believing in this vision fills my heart,” said Carrión in a statement. “Thank you to everyone who played, supported, donated, and got involved in this. All of this is done with the kids in mind, to open doors for them and show that when we come together, great things happen.” Among the athletes and celebrities who attended the tournament were Rafa Campos, Javier Vázquez, José Vidro, Oscar Collazo, Erick and Lenny Tavárez.

Fox’s KTVU Highlights Indigenous Artists’ Impact in Latin Music

Fox’s KTVU highlighted Indigenous artists in Latin music on Tuesday (Dec. 16), featuring Mexica hip-hop artist Xiuhtezcatl and Quechua rapper Renata Flores, whom Shawn Mendes invited to the stage during his “On the Road Again” tour — a moment that went viral online. The five-minute segment also featured “Guatemayan” artist Doctor Nativo, Bolivian singer Luzmila Carpio, known as the “Voice of the Andes,” and Oaxaca icon Lila Downs, all mentioned in an interview with Billboard Español‘s Isabela Raygoza as a guest expert. Watch the video interview here.