Shakira Surprises Cancer Patient & 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.

Feid Launches Sixdo Collection

On Thursday (Jan. 23), Feid hosted the first pop-up for his brand “Sixdo” in Miami. A fan experience, the one-day event featured a room that resembles the artist’s personal closet. Fans also had the opportunity to sit down with Ferxxo for a roundtable discussion, where they could ask him questions. The pop-up showcased the initial development of his clothing brand “Sixdo,” which included a closet with green neon lights and a painting that represented his sold-out shows in Latin America, among other elements. Ferxxo has been hinting at the clothing brand during his concerts, in music videos, and even on album covers (starting with FERXXO Vol. 1 M.O.R.), leading up to the grand reveal this week. The goal is to continue developing this brand throughout 2025.

A Wholesome Moment with Shak

Shakira surprised a young fan named Zoe, who’s currently undergoing cancer treatment. Dance studio Hip Hop Kidz and Sunrise Day Camp shared the wholesome moment on Instagram, capturing the moment the Colombian artist and her sweet fan met for the first time, opened presents, and even did the “Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)” dance together. 

“Despite the tough battle she’s been facing, Zoe’s spirits soared when the international star took time out of her busy schedule to spend time with her,” read the post’s caption. “Shakira, known for her charitable work and deep empathy, shared some quality time with Zoe, encouraging her to stay strong and never give up.”

Billboard’s Latin Artists to Watch 2025

This week, Billboard unveiled its carefully curated Latin Artists to Watch list, highlighting 22 acts who caught our attention in 2024, and who we believe will go on to have a breakout year. The list includes artists who cracked the Billboard charts in 2024, such as Tito Double P, who earned his first No. 1 on Top Latin Albums with his debut set. Artists who’ve been showered with critical acclaim, like Latin Grammy winner Ela Taubert, and those newcomers who first built a fandom on social media before kicking off a music career – like reggaetón mexa pioneer Bellakath, who quickly went from viral sensation to bona fide hitmaker. See the complete list, here.

Celebrating una Reina

A children’s book celebrating Selena’s legacy is officially available this week. Selena: A Little Golden Book Biography, by Maria Correa and illustrated by Paula Zamudio, chronicles the Queen of Tejano’s journey to superstardom and illustrates her timeless impact on music, fashion, and beauty. “Nearly 30 years after her death, Selena’s influence endures, and her accomplishments continue to inspire legions of fans to follow their dreams. This is an inspiring read-aloud for young children and the perfect gift for fans of all ages,” read a press statement. The book can be purchased here, and a Spanish-language version will be published on February 4.