Latin Music Uplifting Moments: Mariachi Dragón, Fuerza Regida & More

From career milestones to new music releases and major community announcements, Billboard editors highlight uplifting moments in Latin music. Here is what happened in the Latin music world this week.

Mariachi Dragón’s Emilio Conde Receives Mexico’s Distinguished Mexican Award

For over a decade, Mariachi Dragón has carried the sound and spirit of Mexico across China — and now Mexico is recognizing the cultural impact of that work. Founded in Guangzhou in 2014 by Mexican singer-songwriter Emilio Conde, the group is described as the “only authentic mariachi ensemble in China.” As part of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations, Conde received the national “Distinguished Mexican” award from the Institute for Mexicans Abroad on Wednesday (Sept. 16).

“Our mission has always been to build a bridge between Mexican culture and Chinese audiences through our music,” Conde said in a statement. “We carry with us the energy, tradition, joy, passion, professionalism and unique pride that come with representing Mexican music abroad.”

Fuerza Regida Receives the Key to San Bernardino

San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran presented the ceremonial keys of San Bernardino to Fuerza Regida during a special hometown celebration on Thursday (Sept. 17). During the ceremony, frontman Jesús Ortiz Paz and the group surprised the audience by announcing plans to help fund and create a new youth-focused community center in San Bernardino for the arts, athletics, and music.

Thalia and Arthur Hanlon Reimagine Juan Gabriel’s “Así Fue”

A beloved Juan Gabriel classic received a new cross-cultural treatment this week. Thalia and pianist Arthur Hanlon released their interpretation of “Así Fue” on Friday (Sept. 18), blending bachata, piano and live mariachi in an Amazon Music exclusive.

Ha*Ash Lights Up the Empire State Building

New York’s skyline took on the colors of Mexico on Tuesday (Sept. 15), when Mexican American duo Ha*Ash joined the Consulate General of Mexico in New York for a lighting ceremony at the Empire State Building. The landmark was illuminated in green, white and red to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day.

Clave Especial Honored With CHIRLA’s Artist in Action Award

At CHIRLA’s 40th Anniversary Immigrant Champion Awards on Thursday (Sept. 17), Clave Especial received the Artist in Action Award at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. The group was honored for its connection to Mexican American communities and the agricultural roots that shaped its story.