Marc Anthony’s Maestro Cares Foundation Gala Celebrates a Decade of Charity

Just like Marc Anthony‘s “Vivir Mi Vida” celebrated one decade this year, so too, did Maestro Cares Foundation, a non-profit organization co-founded by the salsa superstar and Henry Cárdenas, CEO of CMN.

Hosted at the luxurious Cipriani Wall Street on Tuesday (Dec. 5), the 10th annual Maestro Cares Foundation Gala boasted an atmosphere of opulence: fine dining, lavish gowns and dapper tuxes, and a sweeping jazz ensemble. 

The evening unfolded with a high-roller auction, featuring an autographed Bad Bunny guitar, a Luis Miguel NYE getaway concert in Cancun, Anthony’s complete line of Bulova watches and more. The highlight was Anthony’s spontaneous gesture of adding his personal wristwatch to the auction, further elevating the stakes for bidders.

Renowned Latin music icon Ana Gabriel was also in attendance, and donated a “Piece of Music History” rosa mexicano outfit from her personal collection. She even volunteered to take a picture with the highest bidder. All proceeds go toward children and communities in need across Latin America and the U.S.

As for Anthony’s highly anticipated performance, the Boricua superstar took the stage for the grand finale at about 11 p.m. ET. Accompanied by 15 musicians, the New York-bred hitmaker ran through a handful of hits, beginning with the energetic “Pa’lla Voy.” The 2021 single, a reimagining of Senegalese band Africando’s “Yay Boy,” exhilarated the crowd. 

Throughout his 40-minute set, the charismatic artist engaged the audience, expressing playful banter and blowing occasional kisses. “It’s funny how my wife asks for this song. I don’t get it. It’s an oldie,” he said before kicking off 2004’s horn-blaring “Tu Amor Me Hace Bien.” He never seemed to miss a note, his whirling wails intoxicating the crowd, leading them into a salsa dance frenzy. With so many glittering sequined gowns, the view, bedecked with a huge chandelier, sparkled. 

He surprised the elated crowed with a rendition of The Eagles’ “Hotel California,” which was delivered supremely, and featured all the electric guitar solo riffs as well. The singer closed off with none other than “Vivir Mi Vida,” the timeless salsa banger that was released in 2013. (The song made it on Billboard’s 50 Best Latin Pop Songs of the 21st Century list.) It inspired a massive singalong. “You guys made my night,” noted the performer. 

Earlier in the evening, awards were granted to the beloved Mexican comedian Eugenio Derbez with the Voice of Change; rapper and actress Queen Latifah with the Courage to Care award; and Sam Nazarian, chairman and CEO of SBE Entertainment Group, with the Corporate Social Responsibility award for the company’s philanthropic work.

The celebration continues on Wednesday (Dec. 6), as Anthony will take part in the ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the opening of the Citizen Watch America Group Multi-Brand Store on Fifth Avenue in New York. The store will display his exclusive Bulova x Marc Anthony timepiece collection and personal awards statues through the end of the month.