Doing a live awards show in the midst of a pandemic is almost impossible, but Univision managed to do it and the 2020 Premios Juventud exceeded all expectations.
Live from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., On Thursday night (August 13), are the 17th annual youth awards that use technology and innovation to provide a safe environment for the few talented on-site talent like Karol G, Sebastian Yatra, and El Alfa, to name a few. The audience was completely virtual.
Premios Juventud, which this year paid tribute to many frontline heroes, including volunteers at food banks and health care professionals, began with the pre-show of PJ Takeover which featured performances from Jay Wheeler, Kendo Kaponi, Neto Bernal, Pitizion , Alex Rose and Rafa Pabon.
The awards ceremony began with a PJ-only version of Bob Marley’s “One Love” performed by The Wailers, Cedella and Skip Marley, Pedro Capó, Rauw Alejandro, Farruko, Camilo, and Kany García, who all took to the stage to perform a to send message of love, justice, and inclusion. Pitbull followed with his debut TV appearance of his single “I Believe We Won.”
The top winners of the night included Bad Bunny who received eight prizes, followed by Karol G and J Balvin with five prizes each.
Llane, Natti Natasha, Grupo Firme, and Natanael Cano were some of the artists performing for the limited audience and for spectators at home. Others, such as CNCO, Cristian Castro, and Gloria Trevi, performed excellently. The night packed with a special tribute to Celia Cruz through the concept of Sabana Music Group KYEN? ES ?.
Below, check out some of the biggest highlights of the 2020 Premios Juventud.
Inspirational Moments:
For the most part, Premios Juventud directed and recognized the hapless heroes who have the Coronavirus pandemic. Many artists, such as Rafa Pabon, Ricky Martin, Becky G, and Kany Garcia, used the platform to tackle human rights and elections.
“I’ve always tried to use my platform to talk about effective topics,” Becky G said upon receiving her Agent of Change award and dedicating it to Tamika Mallory and Vanessa Guillen, who inspired her to use her voice . “Their campaigns are more than a hashtag on Instagram. They are life as death. I invite you to take this time to reflect and I ask you to vote with me in November. ”
Agent of Change honoree Ricky Martin also spoke about his mission to promote change during his acceptance speech. “I want to change rejection for acceptance, inequality for equality and injustice for justice,” he said. ‘To all those young people who have passion and strength, I encourage you to be an agent of change in your community. I’m counting on you. You have the key to change. Both Ricky and Becky were present in a holographic version.
Pitbull gets emotional:
On the side at the awards was Pitbull, who was also honored as Agent of Change. The Cuban-American artist discussed the importance of education in his speech, saying it is the true revolution, salvation and solution. Before giving his speech, however, Pitbull was surprised by a video of one of his mentors growing up, Hope Martinez. “You’ve changed the world since I met you,” she said after sharing Pitbull anecdotes as her student.
With tears in his eyes, Mr. 305 said that Hope not only inspired him, but changed his life when no one believed in him. He dedicated his distinction to his teacher, his mother, aunt, grandmother, friends of the sector, and the 10,000 students at his Slam school.
An Unforgettable Selena Tribute:
One of the most anticipated moments of the night was the Selena tribute 25 years of music and legacy. Karol G presented the special, saying that Selena has marked her generation and that is the reason why she has a tattoo of her on her arm. “She keeps shining every day and that’s why she’s forever,” she said.
Danna Paola, Natti Natasha, Ally Brooke and Greeicy all shared stages, dazzled in Selena-inspired outfits, and performed a medley of “Como La Flor,” “Carcacha,” “Techno Cumbia,” “Amor Prohibido,” Baila Esta Cumbia, “En” Photos and Records. “
Karol G then presented AB Quintanilla with two Musical Legacy awards for him and his late sister. ‘I dedicate this distinction to my mother and father,’ he said, expressing that he and his brothers fell in love with music because of it.
J Balvin’s COVID-19 Template:
J Balvin was awarded for video with a purpose for his Colin Tilley-directed “Rojo,” which sends a powerful message of “don’t text and drive.” In a pre-recorded message, Balvin thanked his fans and confirmed that he tested positive for COVID and has recovered. ‘These have been very difficult days, very complicated. “Sometimes we will not think we get it, but I have it and I have it bad,” he said. My message to those who follow me, young fans and people in general is to care. This is not a joke. The virus is real and it is dangerous. “
The heartfelt performance of Gloria Trevi:
Gloria Trevi missed the opportunity to shine at Premios Juventud and also sent a message of hope in these sad times. Before her stunning performance of her single “Demasiado Fragiles,” the Mexican singer said she misses her fans and is on stage. “But the pandemic had other plans,” she said. “What she does not know is that she cannot divorce us and that we will somehow reunite. I invite you to my house and from my house to you and your hearts, I want to send this message. ”
Candylicious achievements of Ozuna:
Ozuna, like all other performances, has really hyped the virtual audience and viewers at home. When the Puerto Rican artist returned to his authentic appearance, and shook his braids, he delivered a spectacular performance of “Caramelo” and “Mamacita.” He was joined by a live band of five, all wearing their face masks and a set of animated dancers on a Candyland-inspired set.
