Las Vegas is experiencing a surge in Latin cultural influence, and Marc Anthony’s highly anticipated residency at the Fontainebleau hotel is the latest, and perhaps most prominent, example. The salsa icon’s debut performance on Friday night wasn’t just a concert; it was a celebration of a legacy that has paved the way for artists like Bad Bunny to take center stage on a global scale. This moment, many believe, signifies a broader shift in American culture, where Latin voices and contributions are increasingly recognized and celebrated.

Anthony’s “Vegas… My Way” residency marks a milestone, joining a select group of Latin artists – including Los Bukis and Pitbull, with Carín León soon to follow – who have secured long-term performance engagements in Las Vegas. The opening night at the Fontainebleau, described as one of the city’s more elegant venues, was nearly sold out, drawing a predominantly Latinx audience eager to connect with the music and heritage that has shaped generations. The residency includes shows on February 14, 15, 20, 21, 24, 25, 29, 31, and August 1, 2026.

Born Marco Antonio Muñiz in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Anthony’s career spans decades, encompassing 12 million records sold, four Grammy Awards, and nine Latin Grammy Awards. He was honored as Person of the Year in 2016 by the Latin Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite his extensive accolades, Anthony confessed to feeling nervous before taking the stage, humbly apologizing for pushing boundaries and blending genres. “I perceive very honored. We’re going to strive something different. Get on your feet, dance, have a good time,” he encouraged the crowd, seamlessly switching between English and Spanish.

The concert was a journey through Anthony’s extensive catalog, from his early salsa hits to more recent collaborations. He performed songs like “Valió la pena,” “Y cómo es él,” and a rendition of Juan Gabriel’s “Hasta que te conocí,” all although maintaining the vibrant energy of salsa at its core. Screens displayed images of collaborators like Maluma, La India, and Daddy Yankee, highlighting the interconnectedness of the Latin music scene.

Anthony’s performance resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom traveled from across the country to witness the historic event. Andrea and Omi, a couple who met at a previous Anthony concert ten years ago, shared their emotional connection to his music. “I grew up with his music,” said Andrea, a millennial who immigrated from El Salvador at age seven. Omi, a Mexican trans man, added, “It’s not easy being Latino and trans in this country. But here we are. Dancing.” Their story underscores the power of music to create inclusive spaces and celebrate diverse identities.

A Legacy Built on Salsa and Collaboration

Anthony emphasized the importance of salsa as a cultural identity, stating, “Growing up in Spanish Harlem in the seventies, born in New York, raised Puerto Rican, salsa wasn’t just music, it was an identity.” He framed his Las Vegas residency not as a destination, but as a new chapter in the ongoing story of Latin legacy. This legacy was further highlighted through collaborations showcased during the concert, including a visual tribute to his hit “Felices los cuatro” with Maluma, “La gozadera,” and the ballad “Vivir lo nuestro” featuring La India.

The concert culminated with a powerful performance of “Vivir mi vida,” Anthony’s most successful song, boasting over 800 million streams on Spotify and 1.3 billion views on YouTube. The song, which earned him a Latin Grammy for Best Recording of the Year, filled the venue with energy as the audience waved flags from across Latin America. A dozen musicians – trombones, trumpets, bass, guitars, keyboards, and percussion – along with three backing vocalists, created a vibrant soundscape that celebrated the richness of Latin music.

The success of artists like Marc Anthony and Bad Bunny, who recently captivated audiences at the Super Bowl, reflects a growing recognition of the cultural and economic power of the Latin community. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, activists distributed 15,000 rally towels with a message supporting immigrants at Super Bowl LX, demonstrating a visible display of political activism alongside entertainment. Read more about the Super Bowl protest here.

Looking ahead, Marc Anthony’s residency promises to be a significant cultural event, continuing to amplify Latin voices and celebrate the enduring power of music. The residency’s success will likely pave the way for even greater representation of Latin artists in Las Vegas and beyond. What will be interesting to watch is how this momentum translates into broader opportunities for Latin creatives across the entertainment industry.

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