Contributor

The Billboard Latin Music Conference opened Tuesday with several panels that took a long look at the state of the industry in today’s tough economic times. But even when discussing the challenges of a changing industry, music insiders were optimistic about label strategies, touring opportunities and the future of Latin music.

More than a dozen music artists, including Sheenah, Aiko and Chapin -- kicked off the pre-Billboard Latin Music Conference with the poolside artist showcase, “Mas y Mas Música,” at the Eden Roc Renaissance in Miami Beach.