You can always count on Los Tigres del Norte to tell it how it is, both onstage and off the stage.
On Thursday (July 25), the legendary Mexican group attended, for the first time ever, the Premios Juventud awards show, where they were honored with an Agent of Change Award for being La Voz del Pueblo. For decades, the band has used its platform to fight for social justice and amplify marginalized voices while advocating for immigration policies.
“It’s a great satisfaction but at the same time very big because Agent of Change means many things,” Hernan Hernández told Billboard on the red carpet, just ahead of the awards ceremony. “But especially the people who help without expecting anything in return, help the community. Our music has helped many things, but outside of music, it helps people who need it; that gives us great satisfaction, to be able to do something with those who have given you so much. That is the distinction.”
The band also shared a few words about the landscape of the 2024 presidential election in the United States. As artists who have encouraged the Latino vote, the band’s leader, Jorge Hernández, expressed, “We were a little nervous, but now that Mr. President has decided to leave a path for Kamala, well, I think that now we can realize the dream that we all want, and that she will be elected on this occasion, for various reasons.” Adding, “We invite you to vote, those who can vote, and make their own decision. We will be fighting at any time to continue communicating to the whole nation the great importance of voting.”
During the show, Los Tigres del Norte gave a powerful performance of their latest hit “Aquí Mando Yo,” and later thanked their families and fans for the support.
The 2024 Premios Juventud — a fan-voted awards show — is taking place at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan and hosted by Lele Pons, Clarissa Molina and Wisin. For its 21st annual ceremony, Carin León, Maluma, Peso Pluma, Karol G and Shakira are among the most nominated acts. Meanwhile, Anitta, Los Tigres del Norte and Lele Pons each received an Agent of Change Award, which “recognizes and celebrates” young entrepreneurs and prominent stars who “selflessly contribute to creating a better world,” according to the awards show. See the list of this year’s winners here.
—Additional reporting by Jessica Roiz