Entertainers announced for Billboard Bash

Billboard— the world’s most trusted source of music, video and digital entertainment news, charts, reviews and analysis—announced that Fonseca, Franco El Gorilla, Jeremias, Mariano Barba, Michael Stuart, and Tony Dize will perform at the much anticipated 5th annual Billboard Bash. Sponsored by Verizon, the Billboard Bash will be held on Wednesday, April 25th at The Fifth in South Beach. This pre-awards party will include performances by an elite group of Billboard Latin Music Award finalists who represent a diverse range of popular genres from the Latin music scene.

The Billboard Bash will begin with red carpet arrivals by hot performers, presenters, hosts, and special celebrity guests, followed by exciting performances and special presentations to some of this year’s Billboard Latin Music Award winners.

“We’re thrilled to honor the exceptional and diverse talent that the 2007 Billboard Latin Music Award finalists bring to the industry,” says Leila Cobo, Billboard’s Executive Director of Content and Programming for Latin Music and Entertainment. “The success of these musicians has further reinforced the strength and popularity of the Latin music.”

"At Verizon, we're very excited to be a part of the Billboard Bash,” says Joe Paz, group manager Hispanic marketing for Verizon. “We’re also proud to celebrate Latino music through a partnership with VH1 Save The Music Foundation, which will help public school children to have access to a quality music education programs.”

The 2007 Billboard Latin Music Award finalists performing at the bash include:

Fonseca – Fonseca dazzled audiences with his self-titled debut album FONSECA, released in 2002. Since that time, Fonseca’s catchy combination of energetic rhythms and awe-inspiring lyrics has made him one of the biggest stars in today’s Latin music industry.

Franco El Gorilla—This innovative musician is making headway as part of the new wave of reggaetón artists. With the recent launch of the WY Record, The Cattlemen – featuring Tony Dize, The Uncle and Gadiel–El Gorilla showcases his talents on six different tracks.

Jeremias—In his new album, Ese Que Va Por Ahi, the singer-songwriter underscores his genuine talent with acoustic guitar rifts and self-composed lyrics. The artist’s fusion of musical styles landed him a spot as the only Latino in Billboard’s up-and-coming talent list, Hot in 2006.

Mariano Barba—Mariano Barba has sold over 50,000 records in Mexico and has won a number of awards, including Song of the Year for “Una Noche Mas Contigo.” Barba is currently the most programmed new artist in Hispanic radio throughout the United States Mexico.

Michael Stuart—Heralded by a number of international and Latino accolades, Michael Stuart exudes all the charisma and creativity that has earned him the undisputed title as one of the true “salseros” of this generation.

Tony Dize—In his first solo project, The Melody of the Street, Dize reaffirms his passion for all things reggaetón. Inspired by his affinity to the church, his lyrics aim to set an example for religious youth.

Billboard Bash red carpet and performance highlights will air on the Telemundo specials, “Reventon Billboard VIP” and “MUN2 All Access,” as well as on “Billboard Latino,” which is produced by 13th Floor Television and airs on Azteca America.

The Billboard Bash is part of the Billboard Latin Music Conference & Awards, presented by Heineken and in association with Target and Dodge, taking place on April 23–26 at the InterContinental in Miami. Now in its 18th year, the Billboard Latin Music Conference will feature live performances by over 20 artists, panel discussions on key industry topics, and an exclusive interview with Colombian rock superstar Juanes. The week culminates with the Billboard Latin Music Awards produced and broadcast live on Telemundo on Thursday, April 26 at 7pm Eastern Time.

For details about the Billboard Bash and the Billboard Latin Music Conference, visit www.billboardevents.com.