Ryan Castro performs a tribute to Héctor Lavoe at the Latin AMAs 2024

Colombian singer/rapper Ryan Castro stole the show at the 2024 Latin American Music Awards with his heartfelt rendition of Héctor Lavoe’s classic salsa song “El Cantante,” reimagined as “El Cantante del Ghetto.” Sporting a striking red suit, bold glasses, and cornrows, the Medellín native captivated the audience with his vocal prowess on this heartbreak tribute.

“Loves like yours can’t be bought, they can’t be compared, they can’t be known,” crooned Castro against a backdrop of blaring horns and a festive rhythm section, captivating both the live audience and viewers at home. The performance was a standout moment of the night, showcasing Castro’s talent and charisma.

The song, which is the first single from his upcoming album set for release on May 9th, struck a chord with the audience, especially considering the original 1978 classic’s recent induction into the National Recording Registry. The song holds a special place in the history of salsa music, making Castro’s rendition even more poignant.

The 2024 Latin American Music Awards, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and broadcasted live on Univision, saw hitmakers Feid and Peso Pluma leading the nominations with 12 nods each. The star-studded event featured performances from top artists and marked a milestone with a bilingual broadcast, showcasing the diversity and talent of the Latin music industry.