Pass the (Mini) Mic Interview: Leila Cobo, VP Latin Industry Lead at Billboard

While LatinX Hertigae month has ended, we continue our celebration throughout the audio industry with Billboard's Latin Music Week in the latest edition of Pandora’s Pass the Mic series. Tune in with the pioneer of Billboard's Latin divison, with Leila Cobo, VP of Latin Industry at Billboard. Born in Cali, Columbia, Leila is a native Spanish speaker whose work has been integral in highlighting Latinx voices in the United States. From launching both Billboard and Billboard En Espanol’s websites, Leila oversees the brand's coverage and development of Latin music across all its platforms.

A musician herself, and having studied at Manhattan School of Music, Leila has both the ear for music and the refined skills of a seasoned journalist. As an expert in Latin music, Leila has been a panelist in numerous conferences including BAFIM in Buenos Aires, Vina del Mar in Chile, LAMC, and Bogota Music Market. Additionally, Leila has released four novels with her fifth, Decoding Despacito: An Oral History of Latin Music, set to release in Spring 2021.

Tune in to learn more about Leila’s:

• Evolution from contributing writer to VP at Billboard
• Taking advantage of “open doors” and presented opportunities
• The value of mentorship and being an ally for other Latina's

Billboard’s annual Latin Music Week celebrates 30 years of LatinX artists and musicians from October 20 - 23. You can also pre-order Leila’s book, Decoding Despacito: An Oral History of Latin Music, from Penguin Random House.

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