CENTRAL PARK, NEW YORK, NY- The sun was slowly rising over the trees in Central Park. Excitement began to build up as the crew from Good Morning America prepared the stage. The popular morning show was preparing for one of their biggest music events of the summer—Enrique Iglesias!
My friend Natalia had invited me to attend this morning concert VIP style. Although I am not a morning person, I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to see Enrique Iglesias front row at a free event. I have been his fan since I was a little girl. He has always done good shows whether he performs in English or Spanish. I was grateful for this and the struggle out of bed was worth it.
The GMA crew was hard at work when we arrived. Cameras were calibrated and checked, mics tested, and the lighting panels were set. There was a light breeze in Central Park, so it didn’t feel muggy. While Enrique was preparing backstage, the “hype man” for GMA got the crowd ready. He asked for volunteers to get on stage and sing. Natalia was hesitant at first, but her courage soon blossomed, and she went for it. Luckily, she was picked! Nat got on stage and sang “Hero”. She fought through her nerves and received a huge applause from the audience.
Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for arrived. The band played and Enrique Iglesias came out for rehearsals. The crowd went wild. He was in comfortable clothing and handled the audio problems like the pro he is. Enrique jumped down from the stage to greet his fans.
Once the rehearsal was over, Enrique went backstage to change, and then the real show began. To our surprise, Sean Paul and Descemer Bueno joined him to perform “Bailando”. My body swayed along to the beat. Enrique also went into fan favorite, “Hero”. Nat smiled with pride.
After the performance, Enrique was interviewed by one of the GMA hosts. He was chill throughout the whole thing. Seeing the hosts interview him made me happy I got into broadcast journalism. The only difference is I rather do interviews on the radio. I feel more comfortable behind a mic than in front of a camera. Being able to interview one of my favorite artists is a goal.
Nat and I had an amazing time at the concert. Seeing one of our favorites performers up close was something special. Balloons were bounced all over the place for his final performance, “I’m a Freak”. Moments like today is what inspire me to keep pushing towards my broadcast dreams.
Photos and Videos: Rosa Elena Burgos
Last Updated: September 26, 2021