Tito Nieves Accepts the Legacy Award from Nelson Albareda | Latin Music Power Players 2026

The "Salsa Revival: Bridging Generations" panel, held during the inaugural day of Billboard Latin Music Week 2026, brought together two generations of salsa artists: veteran Tito Nieves and rising star Luis Figueroa. Moderator Bryant Pino of AARP facilitated the discussion, which took place at the Faena Theater in Miami Beach.

Nieves, who has enjoyed commercial success since the 1970s, spoke about the importance of supporting the younger generation. "Young people inspire me," he said. "I already have my legacy, but they’re coming up strong, and I want to support the younger generation."

Figueroa, who was born in Philadelphia but grew up immersed in salsa, noted the contrast between past and present. "Unfortunately, we don’t have that today," he said. "That’s how they built their audience back then. We have platforms now, but it isn’t as personal as having places where you can sing for people and feel their feedback."

Both artists agreed that salsa would continue to thrive, even as the music scene evolved. "Salsa is international," Nieves explained. "It can be made in any language; the rhythm itself conveys emotion." Figueroa added that the genre's emotional honesty in its lyrics, often focused on love, would remain a defining characteristic.

The panelists encouraged young salsa singers to pursue their dreams, even as radio and other traditional venues for exposure dwindled. Nieves urged them to work hard and enjoy the process, while Figueroa emphasized the need for discipline and awareness of the music business realities. "They’ve spent 30 years doing what they love," he said of the genre’s icons. "Now it’s our turn to fight to keep it going."