Leila Cobo

She also an acclaimed author and novelist who has published five books, including two novels and most recently, a history of Latin music, "Decoding Despacito," which was selected as a New York Times Summer Read pick.

Also known for her lifestyle writing, Cobo also served as director of content for Nexos, American Airlines' Spanish and Portuguese in-flight magazine.

She currently hosts "In Tune with Leila Cobo," an in-depth interview show with leading Latin artists that is seen on Reach TV in all U.S. airports.

[1] Her father, doctor Alex Cobo, was a philanthropist and surgeon who founded the school of surgery at Universidad del Valle in Cali.

She was also featured multiple times in Biblioteca Luis Angel Arango's concert series, performing as a soloist and in chamber groups.

[2] Cobo also helped launch billboardenespanol.com, the brand's Spanish-language site and has been instrumental in expanding Billboard's coverage of Latin music which now includes an extensive digital component as well as videos and podcasts.

[3] Cobo has also written liner notes for major album releases, including for artists such as Shakira, Chayanne, Ricky Martin and Julio Iglesias.

Cobo's second novel titled, "The Second Time We Met," was released Feb. 29, 2012, also on Grand Central, receiving favorable reviews from AP and Reuter's among others.

On April 16, 2014, Cobo will release "Apunta a Las Estrellas" (Aim For the Stars), an inspirational guide for people seeking a career in music.

[3] Cobo is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, which allowed her to obtain her master's degree from the University of Southern California's Annenberg School of Communication.

She's also been named one of 12 South Florida Hispanic Women of Distinction (2012) and in 2008 she was recognized as one of the Most Influential People in Latin music by magazines like Gatopardo, and Revista Fuchsia.