Ivy Queen delivered a masterclass in female Latin urban power as she kicked off the Billboard Latin Women in Music 2026 special, airing live on Thursday (April 23) on Telemundo.
Accompanied by a dozen male dancers, the legendary Puerto Rican artist dazzled with a powerful medley of her classics, showcasing her commanding presence in a black coat over a red bra, silver boots, and long blond braids that reached her waist. Moments later, she received the Pioneer Award from Colombian urban music star Feid.
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“For me, it is a source of pride to be able to travel the world with a repertoire that validates my flow, my character, and my essence — and, above all, to be able to put food on the table for my daughter Naiovy, who is watching me, through the music I fell in love with and which has been my companion for so long,” Ivy said upon accepting the award.
After emphasizing that behind great artists are incredible women in the music industry, such as managers, publicists and others, she added: “Women, being underestimated is the beginning of everything. … Don’t forget, on this journey, to present yourself in a way that shows others how you want to be treated. Everything begins with you.”
Lastly, she said, “Let’s remember that an authentic path takes longer, but the impact is legendary because it lasts forever. Naiovy, I’m going home with this for you.”
Honored for helping transform the music industry by breaking barriers, paving new paths and inspiring future generations, Ivy Queen — who was previously recognized as an Icon at the 2023 Billboard Women In Music Awards — has held the crown as the Queen of Reggaetón for more than three decades. She began her career in the early 1990s, when the genre was an underground movement dominated by men.
On the Billboard charts, she made her first entry in 1999 with “In the Zone” alongside Wyclef Jean, which debuted at No. 38 on Rhythmic Airplay. Since then, she has appeared consistently on the charts, achieving 20 entries on Latin Rhythm Airplay and nine on Top Latin Albums — including three in the top 10 — as well as 11 solo entries on the Latin Rhythm Albums chart, including eight top 10s and two No. 1s.
Her most iconic song to date, “Quiero Bailar” — in which she sings about how arousal and flirting do not equate to consent — reached No. 6 on the Tropical Airplay chart and debuted on Hot Latin Songs and Latin Airplay in 2005.
Hosted by Chiquis, the fourth edition of Billboard Latin Women in Music also honors Rosalía as Woman of the Year, as well as Gloria Trevi (Lifetime Achievement Award), Julieta Venegas (Artistic Excellence), Becky G (Global Impact), Young Miko (Unstoppable Artist), Joy (Agent of Change) and Lola Indigo (Artistic Evolution).
