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By Astrid Rivera

Go anywhere on a weekend in Miami and chances are you're likely to hear DJ Mr. Pauer aka Toto Gonzalez. A founding father of Miami's alternative Latin music scene, Gonzalez is no stranger to risk. Ten years ago Latin rock group Soniko found themselves not being able to afford their rehearsal space in Wynwood and Toto decided that hosting weekly parties could provide them with some much needed cash.

The problem was they couldn't find a DJ who could supply the perfect mix of alternative and Latin music that Miami's young Hispanic crowd craved. Fast Forward a decade later and Mr. Pauer's risk paid off, his first debut album Soundtrack, has been nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Alternative Album.

Gonzalez, 36, raved to the Miami Herald,

"I'm already celebrating, since the day I got nominated. That's a big, big deal for me. Do I want to win? Hell yeah. But I think it's a celebration for all the nominees."

Mr. Pauer set himself apart from the very beginning, mixing the tropical sounds of Miami with electronica beats. Even his name, Mr. Pauer, which is a play on words for the Spanish pronunciation of "power", placed him apart from the types of DJ's Miami was accustomed to having. The truth is that Mr. Pauer has worked non-stop to create the musician that he is today and he proved that to the Las Vegas crowd Wednesday night before the 2011 Latin Grammys. Unlike many other artists in this industry, Gonzalez is his own promoter, distributor, producer and the list goes on.

A Venezuelan native, he was always involved in the alternative music scene while studying graphic design in Miami. This gave him the ability to begin branding himself and even start a company called Fabrika, which promotes Latin and U.S. alternative music in Miami for Latinos who have a dual sense of culture. It is his ability to create truly unique sounds that has landed him gigs with Calle 13 and Manu Chao.

Besides promoting his music, website and company, Mr. Pauer has one thing very close to his heart and that's sharing Miami's music scene with the world. He says,

"I really want to take music from Miami and promote it outside."

Although Mr. Pauer didn't take home the gold on Thursday night, this is just one of many recognitions that are sure to come. It is great to know that the Latin Recording Academy is recognizing one of our own, let's all keep up the support and check out Mr. Pauer's Grammy nominated album Soundtrack.

Tags Astrid Rivera, Calle 13, Fabrika, Latin Grammys, Manu Chao, Música, Miami Herald, Mr. Pauer, Toto Gonzalez

By Ikam Acosta

Award shows are the time to let your original style shine through. La Santa Cecilia was beat out by Calle 13 in their category for Best Tropical Song, but were still looking fun and festive on the green carpet. They always look lively and radiant.

Shows like the Grammys are also a time for looking your best. Erik Estrada made an appearance on the green carpet, looking quite sharp in his black tuxedo, reminiscing about his Poncharello days.

If you're anything like me, you love tuning in to award shows to see what outrageous outfits artists wore on the red carpet. The more ridiculous, the better. Much to my surprise, the crazy costume-like clothing started pouring in early during the 12th annual Latin Grammys, and a few couldn't help but catch my eye.

Venezuela's La Vida Bohème could probably win a prize for the most bizarrely dressed band, when they came strolling onto the green carpet splattered in paint.

Los Huracanes Del Norte came in wearing matching bedazzled black suits with white rhinestones. They glittered on the green carpet as they talked about their nominations. Meanwhile, Aaron Nicholas entered wearing a black and white custom-made "hand embroidered suit" with his name on the back, looking like a mariachi. That was original.

Marco Antonio Solís had a beautiful performance. His voice was phenomenal, and the peacock-like-stage performers added an ethereal quality to the show. I was, however, distracted by his red and black lion-tamer-style outfit. He looked like a circus performer, or, at the very best, someone welcoming me to the big top.

The award for worst dressed female presenter goes to Sandra Echeverría. She was wearing a shimmery pink cocktail dress, which I personally thought looked awful and was way too puffy. She strolled in looking like something from an 80's prom. Too much shine and way too short. It looked comical, not sexy. Like a little girl playing dress-up with her big sister's clothes. No me gustó.

Who do you think wore the most outrageous outfits at he Latin Grammys this year?

Tags Aaron Nicholas, Award Shows, Blogger: Ikam Acosta, Calle 13, Celebrities, Chisme, Eric Estrada, Fashion, La Santa Cecilia, La Vida Bohème, Latin Grammys, Los Huracanes del Norte, Marco Antonio Solis, Sandra Echeverria, Style, Television

By Michael Lopez

Just remember, we warned you about following our Latin Grammy predictions. Yes, most of our picks didn't come true. But that doesn't mean that every winner of the night didn't deserve their statuettes. Far to the contrary, particularly in the case of Calle 13. The Puerto Rican duo put out an incredible album last year and it's clear the Latin Grammy voters were listening.

Believe it or not, Calle 13 took home nine awards at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Thursday night, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Best Tropical Song, and Best Urban Album. And though the guys had previously won big in 2008, they seemed quite humbled when taking the stage.

Residente, in particular, made a point to thank the group's devoted fans and promised that Calle would never stray from their Latin hip hop roots.

"It's very difficult for us navigating against the current," he stated. "I know that we're those who are heard not on the radio, but in the heart of the people."

And in between all of the Calle acceptance speeches, there were still plenty of dominant forces on the Latin Grammy stage. Shakira performed three songs during the night (including "Loca") and got huge cheers when she accepted her Person of the Year award. She also happened to take home Best Female Pop Album for Sale El Sol.

As you may have remembered, we were rooting hard for Alex, Jorge y Lena in the Best Album category. Though they didn't win, the talented trio still nabbed the Best Pop Album by a Group award. And, for the record, our Best New Artist prediction did come true! Tr3s fave Sie7e happily accepted the award and definitely proved himself to be an artist to watch in 2012.

In regards to the live performances, the Latin Grammys did not disappoint! Usher had great onstage chemistry with Romeo as they belted out the popular "Promise" track from Formula Vol. 1. And Pitbull brought out a pretty famous duet partner too. Newly-single Marc Anthony poured his heart out with a live rendition of their new single "Rain Over Me." Even Demi Lovato flexed her Spanish tongue with a riveting performance of "Solamente Tú."

But we're sure the live song that will be getting the most buzz was Calle 13's show opener, "Latinoamérica." The newly-crowned Song of the Year was performed alongside the Venezuelan Symphony Orchestra. Not only that, guest conductor Gustavo Dudamel used his baton to give it an even more bombastic touch.

Of course, the show was just half of the fun. Seeing how the event took place in Vegas, you can bet that many of the stars are probably still celebrating at this very moment!

What did you think of this year's Latin Grammys? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alex Jorge Y Lena, Award Shows, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Calle 13, Celebrities, Demi Lovato, Gustavo Dudamel, Hot Stuff, Latin Grammys, Marc Anthony, Música, Paulina Rubio, Pitbull, popnews, Promise, Romeo, Shakira, Sie7e, sofia vergara, Usher

By Ikam Acosta

My favorite category in the Latin Grammys is usually best video, where you can truly see your favorite artist's vision of their work in action. Every year we are blown away by some particularly wonderful videos, whatever your criteria may be. Here's my pick for this year.

Shakira's 'Loca' makes me want to just get up and dance. It also makes me want to go to the beach. It's an upbeat, sexy video that is fun to watch and listen to. I like videos that do that: make you want to just go out and do some random thing. Also, seeing Shakira shake it like a Polaroid picture makes me want to go hit the gym.

One of my favorite videos this year would have to be 'Calma Pueblo,' by Calle 13. It's bizarre visuals, like, for starters, nuns playing guitar and a naked person mosh pit, are definitely something that will make you say, "What?" It also has a nice message of unity. Just don't get distracted by the naked guy playing guitar on the roof.

I feel I should give an honorable mention to Ricky Martin's 'Lo Mejor De Mi Vida Eres Tú.' This effervescent and care-free video makes your worries melt away just watching it. The bright vivid scenes paired with Ricky's melodious voice are harmony to my ears and eyes. I also feel it has a bit of a retro feel, taking me back to the 1990's. I dig it.

What music videos will you be rooting for this year?

Tags Blogger: Ikam Acosta, Calle 13, Latin Grammys, music videos, Ricky Martin, Shakira

By Michael Lopez

Here we are, just hours away from the 12th annual Latin Grammy awards. And seeing how the event is taking place in the gambling capital of the world (aka Las Vegas), we thought it would be fun to place some bets on which artists we're hoping will take home statuettes.

Now, of course, we love all of this year's honorees. But as we peruse the nomination lists, there are definitely a few Tr3s faves that stand out.

Let's start with Shakira. Now it's already confirmed that she'll be getting this year's Person of the Year award and she already has seven Latin Grammys sitting at home. So perhaps the Academy may decide the spread the love and not give her Album of the Year.

Instead, we're actually rooting for the underdogs Alex, Jorge y Lena. We've loved this trio right from the start and were thrilled when they made the cut in the Album category. Granted, they're up against Calle 13, Enrique, Shaki, and Franco De Vita, but they've got just enough momentum to nab the win.

Moving on to Record of the Year, our vote is going for Los Tigres del Norte. Their "Golpes en el Corazon" track is gorgeous (and happens to feature Paulina Rubio on guest vocals). It was also the highlight of their recent Unplugged special, which got a huge response when it aired on Tr3s. Can you tell we're a little biased?

In the Best New Artist category, we're rooting for Sie7e. His "Tengo Tu Love" was the laid-back Latin anthem of the summer and it's clear he's truly connected with the viral universe. Sie7e's gotten millions of YouTube hits, showcased an endless array of talent, and genuinely seems like a nice guy. Let's hope he takes this one down.

As far as the Best Urban Music Album goes, our money's with Calle 13. It's clear the Latin Grammy voters love them (ten nominations this year!) and this is definitely their category. Plus, how awesome and original was their Entren Los Que Quieran record? Truly a gem and a deserving winner.

For Best Rock Album we're going with the underdogs again. Sure Maná is the easy choice (their Drama y Luz record was a massive hit), but Don Tetto feels like they've worked harder to earn this prize. Their Miénteme album is fresh, original, and sounded great live when we saw them at the House of Blues!

In the Alternative category, we're playing favorites again. Zoé did an incredible job with their MTV Unplugged special and it's clear they're overflowing with talent. Plus, they've been around for over two decades and more than deserve some Latin Grammy gold at this point.

Now there are zillions of more categories to make predictions for, but those are the ones we feel the most confident about. Keep in mind, we may be totally off (so DON'T bet your hard earned money on our predictions), but it sure is fun to speculate.

And stay tuned for our complete Latin Grammy coverage tomorrow morning!

Who are you rooting for at the Latin Grammys? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alex Jorge Y Lena, Award Shows, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Calle 13, Don Tetto, Hot Stuff, Latin Grammys, Los Tigres Del Norte, Mana, Música, Paulina Rubio, popnews, Shakira, Sie7e, Zoe

By Ikam Acosta

Every year people tune into the Latin Grammys to scope out how their latest favorite music video did, or to see which songs made it to the top of their class. With all this hot talent in the room, some viewers are surely wondering which artists will get all the attention this year.

I'm willing to bet the sexiness of Mana's 'Lluvia Al Corazon' video was a big factor in getting them the nomination for Mejor Video Musical. Mana has also been given kudos for their album Drama Y Luz. We know you'll be looking your best when you walk across that stage

When people think "sexy," most usually think Ricky Martin. This year he is nominated for his video 'Lo Mejor De Mi Vida Eres Tú.' With an upbeat and happy video, combined with his cuteness and voice, Ricky is sure to do well in the sex appeal department.

Calle 13 has been getting lots of attention lately as well. The sexy stepbrothers are sure to bring the sexy to one of Latin music's hottest events. Why shouldn't they be proud? After scoring 10 Latin Grammy nominations, this duo will be sizzling. Caliente!

Shakira always inspires a sexy vibe. Her video Loca features her, in all her hotness, shimmying around the beach and rollerblading through the city streets. The sexy songstress can always bring the beats and the hot dance moves. Her latest album Sale El Sol is full of Latin beats. Shakira never disappoints.

Which Latin Grammy hotties will you be rooting for this year?

Tags Blogger: Ikam Acosta, Calle 13, Celebrities, Latin Grammy Nominees, Latin Grammys, Mana, Música, popnews, Ricky Martin, Shakira, Television

By Michael Lopez

Usually bands like earning tons of cash for their concerts, but not Calle 13. In what was actually a pretty noble move, the group's frontman Residente abruptly cancelled an Argentine show because he believed the ticket prices were too high.

Set to take place in the southern city of Comodoro Rivadavia, the Calle concert was charging as much as $500 pesos a seat. That seemed to be too steep for Rez, who informed fans via Twitter that he was postponing the show indefinitely.

"Due to the high Price of tickets for the Comodoro show without our consent, we decided to postpone the date until the prices are lowered," he said. "We travelled to Argentina by land so that the ash from the Chilean volcano didn't have the chance of causing the show to be cancelled. We were 16 hours into the journey when we found out how expensive the tickets were."

Interestingly, Residente's statement may provide some insight into how little bands profit at their own shows. More than likely it was the promoters, ticket brokers, and venue owners that caused the costs to get beefed up. Hopefully, they'll get the message and help Calle put on a concert that everyone can afford.

Do you think concert prices are getting too high? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Argentina, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Calle 13, Chisme, Concerts, Música, popnews, Residente, Ticket Prices

By Larry Yepez Jr.

This year's Latin GRAMMY Awards just got a little more exciting! Turns out that Colombian superstar Shakira has just announced that she'll be performing @ the biggest Latin music awards show in the world!

Seven-time Latin GRAMMY winner, two-time GRAMMY winner and the 2011 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year Shakira has three nominations: Album Of The Year and Best Female Pop Album for Sale El Sol and Best Short Form Music Video for Loca.The awards, will take place on Nov. 7 in Las Vegas and will air live on Univision, and will be hosted by Lucero.

Are you excited to see Shakira? What do you think of the Shakira enhanced Latin GRAMMY Awards?

Tags Antes De Las Seis, Blogger: Larry Yepez Jr, Calle 13, Franco de Vita, Latin Grammy Awards, Loca, Lucero, Marco Antonio Solis, Rabiosa, Shakira, univision

By Larry Yepez Jr.

Shakira closed her World Tour "Sale El Sol'" with a Bang! After almost a year shaking her hips around the world and performing her biggest hits to sold out venues, Shakira ends her big tour in Puerto Rico, with a concert that is sure to go down in the pages of music history.

The Rabiosa Colombiana had already forewarned the Puerto Ricans that she had a few surprises up her sleeve for the closing shows in the "Enchanted island". Shaki presented on stage her friend René Pérez, lead Singer of Calle 13, and sang Gordita, a collaboration on her latest album.

The notoriously  controversial René painted a hot message to the Colombian Beauty on his back: "Hoy soy tu Piqué"  (Today I'm your Pique).

Gerard Piqué's girl seemed very happy with the surprise that René shared on stage  culminating her concert with a heartfelt ovation by the Puerto Rican public.

René later tweeted:

"Bonito presentarme con la "goldita" en Puerto Rico. Cuando me tumben la censura los veo con toda la banda en concierto en SJ!"

René was the perfect ingredient to close this very special night for Shakira. The tour Sale el Sol started in Canada and hit about 40 countries, including, Russia, Spain, Portugal, France, The United Arab Emirates and the US.

Now that the tour is over, Shakira will certainly have some more time to spend with her sweetheart, the real Pique.

What do you think about Calle 13's René, calling himself Shakira's other Piqué?

Tags Blogger: Larry Yepez Jr, Calle 13, Gerard Piqué, gordita, popnews, Puerto Rico, Rene Perez, Sale El Sol, Shakira

By Larry Yepez jr.

Calle 13's newest music video "Latinoamérica", is out. The Puerto Rican reggaeton duo has created a beautiful blend of salsa, cumbia, and tango, but of course it wouldn't be a Calle 13 song without socially conscious lyrics.

The music video, features footage filmed throughout Latin America - it's actually part of the same footage that the co-director stepbrothers Jorge Carmona and Milovan Radovic shot, while filming their documentary Sin Mapa. It was released  on DVD and iTunes on July and follows Calle 13 as they traveled throughout several Latin American countries on their tour.

Calle 13 was nominated for 10 Latin Grammys this year, two of which are for "Latinoamérica". René Pérez (Residente) y Eduardo José Cabra (Visitante) released their 4th album about a year ago, "Entren los que quieran".

This musical production is the most mature of all Calle 13's albums due to the strong eclectic rhythms and mix of different Latin-american genres, a style that the group has been developing, cultivating and perfecting in the 5 year span of its career.

After the launch of the controversial video for "Muerte en Hawaii", Calle 13 comes out with a stunning visual collage, a true representation of what Latin America really is!

What do you think of Calle 13's 'Latinoamérica'?

Tags Blogger: Larry Yepez Jr, Calle 13, Eduardo José Cabra, Entren Los Que Quieran, Jorge Carmona, Latinoamérica, Milovan Radovic e, popnews, Rene Perez, sin mapa