The stage was set for a monumental tribute at Premios Juventud 2024, as the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot came alive to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Fania Records. The tribute not only revisited the indelible imprint Fania has left on music but also the enduring influence of its legendary icons like Willie Colón, Celia Cruz, Héctor Lavoe, and Tito Puente.
Kicking off the medley with the seminal “Oye Como Va” by Tito Puente, the legendary Venezuelan Oscar D’León delivered a powerful rendition right from the start, looking snazzy in a yellow metallic suit.
Meanwhile, salsa producer/keyboardist Sergio George and Peruvian-American percussionist Tony Succa, and Tito Puente Jr. accompanied him, and eventually the rest of the singers who took front stage.
The set continued to dazzle as Anitta, in a sparkly mustard dress, delivered a passionate rendition of La Lupe’s “Fiebre.” Tener fiebre no es de ahora, hace mucho tiempo que empezó. ¡Ayyy!,” she belted, surrounded by men in black lace shirts.
A peak moment occurred when La India — a powerhouse who has famously reimagined Celia Cruz’s transcendental hits — not only sang “Quimbara” but sang the hell out of the salsa smasher. “Le canto a la reina de la salsa, Celia Cruz, a la estrella de la Fania,” she wailed.
Then, Puerto Rican singer Luis Figueroa took the stage, wearing a dark glimmering suite, to deliver Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe’s “Aguanile”. Ivy Queen, with her long blonde hair, sang “Mi Gente” by Héctor Lavoe.
“Not only did Fania All-Stars made musical history, but it united people of different cultures and origins, and through the power of salsa, they made history,” said host/superstar Wisin prior to the star-studded tribute.
As new and old fans alike were reminded of Fania’s radical origins and its role in propelling Latin music on the global stage, the tribute at the award show underscored the timeless appeal and cultural significance of the fabled label.
The 2024 Premios Juventud is hosted by Lele Pons, Clarissa Molina and Wisin. See the list of this year’s winners here.