Manuel Turizo Takes Us Backstage at His First AMAs

Colombian hitmaker Manuel Turizo has officially entered his awards show era — and he did it in style. For his first-ever American Music Awards appearance, the Latin GRAMMY-nominated, the U.S. Platinum-certified artist took the stage alongside Becky G to debut their fiery new collab “Que Haces,” a steamy tropical track that’s already climbing the charts and racking up streams.

But before the spotlight hit, Turizo let PAPER in on the behind-the-scenes moments that made the night: last-minute rehearsals, tailored Dzochen suiting and even a pit stop at the gym (priorities). He kept things personal, sporting a custom “201” chain — a tribute to his apartment in Montería and the title of his latest genre-hopping album and upcoming tour.

At just 25, Turizo’s been dubbed GQ México’s Musician of the Year, landed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30, and collaborated with the likes of Shakira, Marshmello and Grupo Frontera. But the AMAs marked something new — a stateside crossover moment that felt both massive and unmistakably him.

Scroll through for exclusive photos and commentary from Turizo himself, including his favorite pre-show rituals and that AMIRI performance look that sealed the deal.

We’ve made it to perform at my very first American Music Awards! Off the plane and to rehearsals we go.

Anyone recognize the car from the music video?

Leave it to Becky to have us arriving in style.