Starting Sunday, November 10, Miami has become the heart of Latin music as the 2024 Latin Grammy Week began. The celebration started with a tribute to some of the most iconic Spanish-language artists.
In a special ceremony, artists such as Albita, Lolita Flores, Alejandro Lerner, Los Ángeles Azules, and Draco Rosa were honored with the prestigious Award for Musical Excellence, recognizing their artistic contributions that have left an indelible mark on Latin music.
The event also featured the Board of Directors Award presentation, honoring individuals who have played a crucial role in advancing Latin music without necessarily being performers. This year's recipients included Puerto Rican composer Ángel 'Cucco' Peña and renowned Mexican guitarist Chucho Rincón. The ceremony at Miami's Arsh Center marked the beginning of a week-long celebration set to culminate with the main gala.
The diversity of genres among the honorees was highlighted, each bringing a unique style that has enriched the music scene. Lolita Flores, an icon of flamenco; Albita in salsa; Alejandro Lerner in Latin rock; Los Ángeles Azules with Mexican cumbia; and Draco Rosa's distinct indie pop are all artists who have crossed borders and connected with audiences of various generations and cultures.
According to the Latin Recording Academy, the Award for Musical Excellence is given to performers who have made "outstanding creative contributions of artistic value to Latin music and its communities." Meanwhile, the Board of Directors Award is presented to individuals who have made "important contributions to Latin music in its various forms," carefully chosen by the Academy's Board of Directors.
Latin Grammy Week: A Continuous Celebration in Miami
The Latin Grammy festivities continue with events celebrating Latin music excellence and emerging talent all week. On Monday, the focus will be on the Leading Ladies of Entertainment program, honoring influential figures such as Mexican singer-songwriters Julieta Venegas and Vivir Quintana, along with executives Ana Rosa Santiago from Puerto Rico and Diana Rodríguez from Colombia.
On Tuesday, a gala will spotlight the nominees in the New Artist category, providing a glimpse of Latin music's rising stars. Wednesday will feature one of the week's most anticipated events, "Person of the Year," celebrating Colombian artist Carlos Vives, whose legacy has profoundly impacted Latin music worldwide.
Latin Grammy Night 2024
On Thursday, Latin Grammy Week will culminate with a double ceremony. In the afternoon, awards will be presented across categories at the Miami Beach Convention Center, including religious, classical, pop, urban, and Mexican music. The main Latin Grammy gala will occur at the Kaseya Center at 8:00 p.m. EST, where the top artists and productions of the past year's Latin music will be celebrated.
This year, the Latin Grammys honor present-day artists and productions and pay tribute to those who have paved the way for future generations of Latin musicians. With each recognition, the Latin Recording Academy reaffirms its commitment to celebrating the rich diversity and unparalleled talent defining Latin music. It solidifies Miami as the annual stage where this genre's passion and artistry shine at their brightest.
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