"This year almost broke me," said Ángela Aguilar this weekend upon receiving recognition from Billboard, the main organization that tracks and maintains the music industry's popularity charts. It came from her heart, and no one doubts it's true. The previous 12 months were a mixed blessing for Pepe Aguilar 's daughter.
However, the so-called Princess of Regional Mexican also moved the audience at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, with her powerful words about the reality of migrants in the United States and her decision to bring children from the Latino community in the Los Angeles area on stage with her.
Angela received the Breakthrough Award at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music Awards. This annual ceremony recognizes the contributions of outstanding women in the music industry. With the award, this Mexican-American artist continues to solidify her position as one of the most influential artists of the moment and is fulfilling her promise to use her work to cover up the gossip surrounding her controversial relationship with her now-husband, Christian Nodal .
Ángela took the stage visibly moved. Upon accepting the award, she gave a powerful speech that resonated with everyone present. "This Breakthrough Award means a lot to me, because this year it almost broke me," she confessed, clearly referring to the constant avalanche of criticism she received for beginning a relationship with Nodal when he had just announced the end of his romance with the Argentine artist Cazzu , the mother of his only daughter, Inti.
"I have had to cry the weights of judgement and speculation of a story that I have not even told," Aguilar said. "And yet, here I am. I'm still singing, I'm still standing. Because music is who I am," she said.
The artist took advantage of the platform to dedicate the award to immigrant women, highlighting their sacrifice and resilience. "I want to take this moment to raise my voice for women whose voices don't always have a platform," Ángela expressed, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting those who, despite adversity, continue to move forward with hope and determination.
The Billboard Women in Music 2025
The evening was filled with memorable moments and recognition for other female figures in music. Doechii was named 2025 Woman of the Year, joining a list of distinguished artists who have received this honor in the past. BLACKPINK member Jennie received the Global Strength Award, while Gracie Abrams was recognized as Songwriter of the Year. Additionally, the legendary Erykah Badu was honored with the Icon Award, celebrating her lasting impact on the music industry.
Ángela Aguilar performed the classic "Cielito Lindo" accompanied by the Harmony Project of Los Angeles , a community choir made up of immigrant adults and children. This emotional performance was one of the most moving moments of the evening, reflecting Ángela's deep connection to her roots and her commitment to the immigrant community.
The ceremony, hosted by Laverne Cox, brought together a constellation of stars who walked the red carpet, sporting attention-grabbing outfits. Tyla, Doechii, Jennie Kim, and other artists stood out not only for their musical achievements, but also for their style and presence at the event.
Angela's family also had their moment in the spotlight. Her mother and manager, Aneliz Álvarez Alcalá, was recognized by Billboard for her contributions to the industry as the head of the independent label Machin Records. This recognition underscores the importance of family support in Angela's career and highlights the pivotal role women play behind the scenes in music.
Billboard Women in Music 2025 not only celebrated the achievements of women in music but also served as a platform for messages of empowerment and solidarity. Ángela Aguilar, with her speech and performance, encapsulated the spirit of the evening: a celebration of strength, resilience, and female talent that continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations.
