Pitbull Brings Down the House at Hard Rock Live In Hollywood, Florida

By Joanie Cox Henry

Photo By Larry Marano

Pitbull's May 1st show at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, kicked off with Miami radio legend DJ Laz warming up the crowd, spinning classic old school Power 96-style jams including Laz's hit "Esa Morena" and Debbie Deb's infectious bop, "When I Hear Music" that set the perfect nostalgic tone for the evening.

The main event opened with Pitbull's badass band playing the opening riffs of Metallica's "Enter Sandman" before heading into the chorus of Beastie Boys' "Fight For Your Right To Party," and eventually, "Mr. Worldwide" took the stage with "Don't Stop the Party." The crowd erupted into a massive dance party—particularly noticeable were the "baldies," dedicated fans sporting Pitbull's signature look with shaved heads, sunglasses, and sharp suits who had come out in force to support their idol.

"It always feels good, it's always an honor, and it's always a blessing to be able to represent all the way from the 561 to the 954 to the 305," Pitbull said. "So, everyone from South Florida, I appreciate all the love for so many years."

Speaking in English, Spanish, and even a bit of Spanglish, Pitbull then welcomed everyone who wasn't from South Florida and said, "Welcome to the crib!" And trust me, this legendary local means it!

In true Pitbull fashion, he then fired up the crowd to stick with his mission of partying and having a good time. "With that being said, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas," Pitbull shouted as the crowd cheered. "But what happens in Miami never f%^$#*! happened!"

It was a definite mic drop moment and once again, Mr. 305 turned Mr. Worldwide is accurate.

The setlist featured fan favorites including "Hotel Room Service," "Fireball," a cover of Daddy Yankee's "Gasolina," segments of Jennifer Lopez's "On the Floor," Usher's "DJ Got Us Fallin' in Love," "Timber," and closed with the emotional high point of "Give Me Everything."

Between high-energy performances, Pitbull paused to express heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in making the show possible, from his record producers down to the cooks and janitors in the building, demonstrating the genuine humility that has endeared him to fans throughout his career.

Beyond his musical performance, Pitbull's philanthropic efforts were evident. He also co-founded the SLAM (Sports Leadership and Management) Foundation, a non-profit educational organization supporting tuition-free public charter schools, with the first opening in Miami's Little Havana in 2012. His partnership with motivational speaker Tony Robbins has further extended his positive impact beyond entertainment.

The "baldies" and other devoted fans left satisfied after witnessing both the entertainer and humanitarian sides of the artist, who has successfully maintained his global appeal while staying connected to his roots.

All images by Larry Marano:

Here are some videos I captured at the show!