By Maria Vasallo
Latin music took center stage at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards last Sunday, September 7th at UBS Arena in New York, with J Balvin delivering an electrifying performance and Ricky Martin making history as the first recipient of MTV’s new «Latin Icon Award.»
J Balvin’s High-Energy Return
J Balvin commanded the stage with a genre-bending performance featuring collaborators Justin Quiles, Lenny Tavárez, and DJ Snake. Opening with his reggaeton hit «Zun Zun,» the Colombian superstar transformed the venue into a glowing nightclub with vibrant neon visuals and stunning choreography. The set culminated with «Noventa,» featuring DJ Snake in a high-octane ’90s throwback complete with breakdance circles, pyrotechnics, and J Balvin elevated atop a custom Timbs boot.
Ricky Martin’s Historic Achievement
The night’s emotional peak came when Ricky Martin received the first-ever «Latin Icon Award,» presented by Jessica Simpson. J Balvin introduced the Puerto Rican legend, praising his role as a pioneer: «Ricky Martin didn’t just open the door for Latin music crossover… he helped build it from the ground up.»
Ricky delivered a show-stopping performance of his greatest hits including «Livin’ La Vida Loca,» «María,» and «Cup of Life,» backed by 10 dancers and musicians. Upon receiving the award, he dedicated it to his children and thanked fans worldwide: «Everything we do is to unite countries, break boundaries, and keep music alive.»
The 2025 VMAs highlighted Latin music’s powerful presence on the global stage, celebrating both established legends and rising stars who continue expanding the genre’s worldwide influence. Ricky Martin continues his Live Tour with upcoming dates across Las Vegas, Chile, Australia, and Europe, while J Balvin’s acclaimed project Mixteip remains available on all streaming platforms.
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