Molotov, Natalia Lafourcade lead winners at MTV Latin awards

<br>MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP) _ Mexican rockers Molotov and talented newcomer Natalia Lafourcade were the big winners Thursday at MTV Latin's second annual music awards show. <br><br>Molotov, a rap-metal

Friday, October 24th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP) _ Mexican rockers Molotov and talented newcomer Natalia Lafourcade were the big winners Thursday at MTV Latin's second annual music awards show.

Molotov, a rap-metal group whose lyrics are usually driven by blistering social commentary, won four of the five awards they were nominated for: video of the year, best group or duo, alternative artist and best Mexican artist.

Singer-songwriter Lafourcade won three statues for best solo artist, pop artist of the year and best new Mexican act.

Colombian singer Juanes, who won five Latin Grammys this year, won artist of the year and best rock artist.

Two English-language acts were honored: singer Avril Lavigne for best new international artist, and the group Coldplay for best international rock artist.

The awards show was held at the Jackie Gleason Theatre in Miami Beach.

La Ley and Cafe Tacuba, both nominated for five awards, were shut out, as was Argentinean musician Gustavo Cerati, who had four nominations.

Singer Vicentico took home the award for best new artist from Argentina and Bersuit Vergarabat won best artist from Argentina.

The show began as Juanes, Vicentico, Ricky Martin and others played ``Matadores'' by the Fabulosos Cadillacs, among other songs.

``I feel really good, happy, and it gives me the chance to keep working and making music,'' said Vicentico, who was with the Fabulosos Cadillacs for 12 years before embarking on a solo career.

Molotov's video ``Frijolero,'' which won a Latin Grammy this year, criticizes the racism suffered by Mexican immigrants in the United States. The video features animated caricatures of President Bush, Vice President Dick Cheney and Mexican President Vicente Fox.

The show was hosted by actor Diego Luna, who appeared in the films ``Frida'' and ``Y Tu Mama Tambien.'' The show was broadcast live on MTV Latin and MTV2.

Nominees in 17 categories for the MTV Video Music Awards Latin America were chosen by a committee which included MTV personalities and industry professionals.

The winners were selected by the fans through Internet voting from Sept. 11 to Oct. 8.

Other winners were: Evanescence, New international artist; Libido, Best artist, Central; TK, New artist, Central; Hermanos Brothers, Independent artists.