Don Omar Leads Billboard Latin Music Finalists
MIAMI — Rapper and reggaeton star Don Omar leads the pack of finalists for the 2012 Billboard Latin Music Awards, Telemundo announced Tuesday.
The Puerto Rican artist is named 16 times in 14 categories. He is named twice in two of the categories. Closely following is Miami's native son, rapper Pitbull. Prince Royce and the more seasoned Romeo Santos of the group Aventura, whose R&B-tinged bachata has captivated audiences, also made the top of the list.
Long established acts like Mexican export and world rock phenomenon Mana did well, competing in 11 categories. Shakira was named in 10 categories. Other finalists include Wisin y Yandel, Jennifer Lopez, Juanes, Daddy Yankee and Enrique Iglesias.
Katy Perry and Rihanna are both named for crossover artist of the year.
The annual show is presented by State Farm. Telemundo will air the program live April 26 from the BankUnited Center in the Miami suburb of Coral Gables. Winners are determined by sales and radio play. Daddy Yankee and Juanes are among the artists slated to perform.
The show caps off the Billboard Latin Music Conference, April 23 through 26, at the JW Marriot Marquis in Miami. The conference brings together top Latin music artists and industry players for panel discussions, music showcases and networking.
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LAURA WIDES-MUNOZ 02/28/12 11:25 AM ET Associated Press