The first stop of Dua Lipa’s “Radical Optimism Tour” in Miami was marked by a very special moment. When the first chords of “Conga” began to sound at the Kaseya Center, the audience wasn’t just listening to a song, but rather immersed in a vibrant tribute to Latin culture and one of its most influential figures: Gloria Estefan.
The beginning of the show wasn’t just a simple cover; it was a tribute laden with symbolism, an act of recognition for Estefan and her legacy as a bridge between Cuban music and the English-speaking world. In a concert generally filled with her own hits and electronic fusions, Dua Lipa decided to take a break to pay tribute to someone whose music has left an indelible mark on the industry.
The audience responded with a standing ovation, while videos of the emotional moment began to circulate on social media, reflecting the emotion of the audience. Gloria Estefan, with her “Conga,” has been instrumental in paving the way for Latin artists in the U.S., turning the song into a symbol of Latin pride, nostalgia, and power. By choosing it as one of the surprises of her show, Dua Lipa sent a clear message: music transcends borders, and recognizing one’s roots is part of belonging.
Beyond the cultural symbolism, this tribute was an explosion of energy that united artist and audience in a moment of communion, filled with applause, shouts, and collective choruses. With this gesture, Dua Lipa demonstrated her ability to build bridges between genres, cultures, and generations, celebrating not only her own success but also those who paved the way for Latin rhythms to reach global audiences.
