For the first time in Spanish-language television history, rival networks Univision and Telemundo -- plus NBC -- joined forces to simultaneously broadcast Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez’s telethon concert to raise funds for hurricane victims in the southern United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and other Caribbean nations.
Millions from around the world tuned in Saturday evening (Oct. 14) to witness the historic event in honor of victims of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, which together wreaked havoc on Houston, South Florida, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and many other neighboring islands. Somos also aired across other English-language networks like VH1 and MTV, and even streamed live on social media platforms like Facebook.
The three-hour-long program collected monetary donations via phone calls and text messages (Jamie Foxx, Zoe Saldana, Ciara and Ellen DeGeneres, among other celebs were on hand with phone operations), offered an abundance of performances from various artists across all genres, many of whom have roots in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, or are related to people directly affected by the tragedies. The likes of Sean “Diddy" Combs, Vin Diesel and Derek Jeter appeared between sets to publicly share their support for the cause.
While Lopez performed live from the NBC soundstage in Los Angeles, Anthony carried out his set from the Marlins stadium in Miami.
“There’s not an artist who said no to us, not one company turned us down,” Anthony told Billboard. “The hardest part about putting all this together were the logistics. But the people, the artists -- they all showed up.”
Bruno Mars, J Balvin, Mary J. Blige, Chayanne, Bad Bunny, DJ Khaled, Nicky Jam, Kany Garcia, Prince Royce, Maroon 5, Daddy Yankee, Stevie Wonder and Demi Lovato are just a few of the names who lent their voices for the cause and performed pro bono.
Here are six standout moments from Saturday’s special celebration.
Here are six standout moments from Saturday’s special celebration.
Here are six standout moments from Saturday’s special celebration.
1. Bad Bunny, known for his wildly eccentric wardrobe, made a different kind of fashion statement tonight, and instead sent a political message to Donald Trump. “Tu Eres Twitero O Presidente?” read the rapper’s T-shirt, which literally translates to “Are you a twitterer or President?”
2. Bruno Mars, who has Puerto Rican roots, performed “Just The Way You Are” in Spanish for the first time, driving home a message of love and solidarity to the people of his father’s homeland.
3. Kany Garcia and Pedro Capo executed a joint rendition of “Mi Dueña,” a timely reminder that Puerto Ricans are also U.S. citizens.
4. DJ Khaled brought the house down when he emerged on stage with a slew of hip-hop luminaries, bringing out Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes and T.I., alongside Mac Miller.
5. Soul singer Andra Day offered a rousing (and equally timely) performance of her Grammy-nominated single “Rise Up,” which visibly resonated with audience members in attendance.
6. Marc Anthony fittingly closed out with a powerful and swoon-worthy performance of “Preciosa,” an ode to his native Puerto Rico.
Photos: Getty Images