Search Results for: Latin Tribute

Ayumi “Azucar” Suzuki, she plays Latin percussion, Classic percussion, Marimba & Vibraphone

Ayumi was born in Japan She graduated from the Faculty of Percussion, Tokyo College of Music.

Ayumi was born in Japan. She plays Latin percussion, Classic percussion, Marimba & Vibraphone.

At the college; she began to study percussion in earnest mainly with classic music and gained experience of ensemble in orchestras, brass bands, musicals, operas, etc.

Ayumi “Azucar” Suzuki She plays Latin percussion.

At the same time, she started to organize concerts and participate as percussionist, keyboard percussionist or drummer.

She has been also teaching eurythmics at a nursery school.

In 2015, she started her own band, “Ayumania” that features mostly her original compositions and arrangements, where she fuses Japanese atmosphere into Latin rhythm.

Inviting both Japanese and foreign guests, she has been organizing live concerts in various places in Tokyo.

In July 2017, she released her first album “Oukagekka” in Japan. It has been promoted in overseas radio programs in Colombia, Puerto Rico and New York.

He plays Latin percussion At the same time, he began to organize concerts and to participate as a percussionist, keyboard percussionist or drummer. — She graduated from the Faculty of Percussion, Tokyo College of Music

The Japanese vibraphonist, timbalera, composer and arranger Ayumi Suzuki launches her Ayumania debut, a musical production recorded between Tokyo and Los Angeles that includes 7 original numbers – composed and arranged by Suzuki herself – and two covers: Maria Cervantes de Noro Morales and Mi Amore by Naoya Matzuoka. In this album, Ayumi’s speech establishes a bridge between classical and contemporary Cuban music, with different rhythmic touches and influences that have marked his background as an instrumentalist.

Sakura, a beautiful instrumental melody composed by Suzuki herself, highlights Chiho “Isabel” Saito on the violin, as well as Hiromishi “Yan” Tsugaki on the keyboards, and of course, Suzuki on the marimba and the vibraphone.

Ring Loop is a cadenciosa are montuno with outstanding participation of Takashi Nakazato in the congas; La Lluvia, vocalized by the Cuban Julian “El Pillo” Tapia, presents the solos of Mitsuru Tanaka and Ayumi on the trumpet and vibraphone, respectively.

Knock Knock Knock is a festive cut that builds bridges with Caribbean music, particularly calypso, and salsa and in which Ayumi herself punches the timpani and a mind-blowing one in the marimba.

Saredo Danzon, as the name implies, is a danzon that opens with a solo by Hiromichi Tsugaki on the piano while Umihotaru, with vocals by Julian “El Pillo” Tapia, is an afro rhythm in 6/8 with the intervention of Hiromichi Tsugaki (fender rhodes) and Ludwig Esteban Nuñez (drums).

Suzuki offers a tribute to Noro Morales in his legendary composition of Maria Cervantes. In this piece we hear the participation of Jimmy Branly in the drums and an overwhelming solo of Ayumi in his vibraphone, with that way of playing that only she has.

Branly himself performs the drums in the last two pieces;Suzuki achieves a premium opera that honors her at the rumberos school.

With sophisticaded arrangements. with the elegance and the street necessary to position it is as one of the most

outstanding salseras of the international level. It wil surely be one of the best productions of this 2017.

Ayumania

Sakura emerges with a flow of wind sounds with minor percussions that set the mood for an eclectic and harmonious journey. — Ayumania A material consisting of 7 original songs, two covers and all under the baton of Ayumi.

A modern and contemporary material, original and unusual, is the one that establishes this Japanese multi-instrumentalist Ayumi Suzuki, establishing different arrangements and touches to each theme, this Japanese vibraphonist, timbalera player, composer and arranger establishes a thin line between Cuban music and modern, going through bold and effective rhythmic domains.

A material that consists of 7 original songs, two covers and all under the baton of Ayumi.

Sakura emerges with a flow of wind sounds with minor percussions that make the environment conducive to an eclectic and harmonious journey, one of the fundamental pieces to understand the musical transculturation of this talented woman, the violin solo by Chiho “Isabel” Saito and the keyboards by Hiromishi “Yan” Tsugaki and the marimba and vibraphone by the emblematic Ayumi stand out.

A son montuno can not be missing in this material, Anillo De Lazo where a congas solo by Takashi Nakazato stands out, La Lluvia, a song that already rolls through the wide world of the networks in which the voice of Julián Tapia can be appreciated, the trumpet of Mitsuru Tanaka and the vibraphone of the great Ayumi, undoubtedly a 5 star material, a musical base and instrumentalist of first line that give the incomparable recognition to the musical talent of this great artist and in conjunction with the band.

Latin Music Revolution in United States: Record labels that bet on producing Latino Artists

North America / United States

Record labels that bet on the first Latin singers in the United States

Currently, visiting a nightclub in the US and listening to a bachata or merengue song is totally normal. The assistants, regardless of their nationality, will end up dancing and chanting the melodies. However, a few years ago it was not this way. Find out which labels made this a reality.

Latin music came to the United States around 1930 thanks to the bolero. Its growth continued to rise within its borders passing through salsa, chachachá and merengue; until genres such as bachata and Latin jazz became popular in order to position themselves as they are today. To a large extent, social networks have contributed to the projection of today’s artists. For the most part, they create strategies that increase their reach by improving their sales and reproductions. In 2019, on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, which measures the most popular songs in the United States, there were more Latin songs than ever. A true historical record!

Record Labels in Latin Music — Record Labels of Latin Music

These data were revealed by Leila Cobo, Billboard’s vice president for the Latin market.

In 2018, Latin music rose to the fifth place with the highest demand in the United States, according to the music statistics firm BuzzAngle, in charge of rankings for Rolling Stone magazine.

For many, it is a cause for astonishment and they cannot imagine what the previous story is. The first Latin singers had to go a long way, being rejected in some opportunities but, finally, achieving success on American soil. There is a long list of characters who paved the way for other Latin musicians such as: Héctor Lavoe, Celia Cruz, Rubén Blades, among others.

Another curious fact worthy of consideration corresponds to the companies that were behind these releases: the record companies. Those record labels that dared to try a foreigner with a proposal in a language other than the United States; They trusted and believed in his talent. Part of this musical revolution, it is thanks to them and their directors.

Record labels that bet on the first Latin singers in the United States

Fania Records

In 1964 this project was born in New York City. It was founded by the American businessman, producer and promoter, Jerry Masucci and the Dominican musician Johnny Pacheco.

Pacheco is one of the most influential figures in Caribbean and Latin music. He is a composer, director, arranger; he specializes in Cuban and Caribbean music such as salsa. This singer also had to go step by step within the US market, train in its streets and go after recognition. In 1960 Pacheco y su Charanga was created, a band that reached more than 100,000 copies on its first album. Alegre Records was the label they signed with. His fame led him to visit countless countries. His experience in the industry made his wish he could help others. After creating Fania Records, he was recognized for promoting the careers of many young artists.

The name of Fania Records was taken from a Cuban song by Reinaldo Bolaño. In part, their great popularity was due to their promotion of salsa. The label supported the greats of the show such as: Rubén Blandes, Willie Colón, Tito Puente, Bobby Valentin, Ray Barretto and Héctor Lavoe, among others.

Alegre Records

It was founded in 1956 by Al Santiago, the owner of a record store in the Bronx. It specialized in products born in the 1950s.

Alegre Records represented, for the most part, Latin music singers. In addition, opening its doors to greats such as Tito Puentes, Johnny Pacheco, founder of Fania Records, Eddie Palmieri. In 1975 it was acquired by Fania Records.

Capitol Records (EMI Latin)

It is an American record company that opened its doors in 1942. Its founders were Johnny Mercer and Buddy DeSyIva, American singers. Today it is owned by Universal Music Group, one of the world’s leading record labels. In most cases, it focused on genres typical of its borders. However, they gave their support to the American with Mexican roots, Selena and the Dominican Juan Luis Guerra.

Discos CBS International

CBS Record Label — Record Label of Latin Music

At first it was located in Coral Globes and then it was transferred to the city of Miami. Discos CBS supported bands like Miami Sound Machine, in which the renowned singer and songwriter Emilio Estefan participated. In 1991, it was acquired by Sony. It is one of the best known for being part of the CBS television network (Columbia Broadcasting System, Inc). It was founded in 1962 by Harvey Schein. Discos CBS is active despite the number of years since its inception. He is dedicated to different genres, without neglecting music in Spanish.

Warner Music Latina (WEA Latina)

It is a label belonging to Warner Music Group, one of the world powers in the field. Warner Music Latina emerged in 1987 and focused on Latin productions, giving the opportunity to artists such as the Puerto Rican, Olga Tañón. It was the label that gave her her first opportunity as a solo artist with the album Sola (1992), making her a Platinum Record recipient. At present, it has branches in different countries of the world. It has production and publication of music, recorded music and services for artists.

RMM Records

It was an independent record company that operated in New York City until the late 1990s. It focused on salsa, merengue, and Latin jazz productions. He worked with artists such as Marc Anthony, Tito Puente, Cheo Feliciano, Tito Nieves, Celia Cruz, Óscar D´León, among others. RMM Records went bankrupt due to legal problems with artists and a millionaire lawsuit filed by singer Glenn Monroig. In 2001 Universal Music acquired the RMM records catalog. A lot of

Over the years, the American music industry was increasingly influenced by songs in Spanish. Those who do not speak the language have commented that they are attracted to the catchy rhythm and do not hesitate to dance them non-stop. The US public has become less skeptical of Latin rhythms. Recording industry experts say it is due to the rhythms and their proximity to the songs in English.

The creation of platforms such as YouTube and the appearance of streaming platforms has given greater openness to the market. More and more Latinos are succeeding in the US and record companies are deciding to finance their projects.

Merlin, a specialized agency, has been in charge of bringing together different independent record companies and managing the collection of income derived from streaming platforms. Half of the record labels associated with Merlin are American. On the other hand, the number of clicks and visits obtained by Latin songs on video platforms such as YouTube and Vevo are increasing, especially in the case of audiences in the US The number of new immigrants and young people must also be considered. Born to Latino or Latin American parents.

The market continues to bet on Latin music. In fact, in the United States there are a large number of stations focused on this type of music. Users can request the songs of their choice and enjoy them at any time of the day.

What will be the next step for songs in Spanish within the United States?

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6 artists who helped make Latin Music successful in the United States

The success of Latin Music in the United States

Some artists have taken Latin music to another level. They fell in love with the public on American borders and helped shape the market as we know it today. We will tell you more details!

Latino immigrants who made their way into the United States gave way to Hispanic music as it is known today.

The Argentine tango, for example, was a success in the US in 1930 and is considered the first Latin genre to have participation on American soil. As you can imagine, from then on a movement was born that is here to stay. At the end of the 90s, this musical boom finished exploding. The numbers were increasing and more and more artists were honoring their Latin roots.

Currently, the industry numbers give prominence to Latin artists, having a greater incidence when they present their songs in Spanish. Also, there are a large number of versions that have been translated into English and are heard in renowned venues. In fact, it is enough to go to a nightclub or a Latin concert in iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, located in New York or American Airlines Arena in Miami to check acceptance by the public. How much ground have they gained to have a leading role in the most powerful country in the world?

La Guarachera del Mundo - Latin America — Celia Cruz is well known all around the latin world

The road has not been easy, it has been marked by countless artists who, little by little, were making known the rhythms of Caribbean countries. Salsa, for example, was one of the most popular rhythms at the time. Starting in 1960, it was catapulted into the United States, paving the way for Latina artists who are now considered legends of the genre. Celia Cruz, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Rubén Blades, Johnny Pacheco, among others, marked a before and after in the industry.

Today we want to talk about some famous singers who set the tone and promoted the careers of other Hispanics.

6 Latino artists who paved the way for new generations

Emilio Estefan, Cuba

The Cuban was born in 1953 and arrived in the United States at the end of 1960, from Spain. Estefan always had musical interests. Although, in principle he had to work in other areas. He formed the band “Miami Latin Boys”, which would later be called “Miami Sound Machine”. Thanks to his different presentations, he met Gloria Fajardo, today known as Gloria Estefan, who accompanied them as vocal reinforcement. No one imagined that this singer would become their life partner.

Despite the success of the group, it is other achievements of the artist that place him in this category. Emilio Estefan soon established himself as a producer for Latin American artists and contributed to Gloria Estefan’s success as a soloist. He quickly became known within the industry, working with artists such as Charliee Zaa, Cristian Castro, and Carlos Vives.

In 2002, Estefan became a producer for the Latin Grammy Awards, an annual event that awards artistic excellence for productions in Spanish, Portuguese or other languages of Hispanic countries.

Emilio Estefan and his wife have been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom from the United States, the highest honor in the country, due to their work in the training of artists and projection of Latin music in the world.

Celia Cruz, Cuba

Celia Cruz, began her career in her native Cuba. She excelled in tropical music and was known as “The queen of salsa.” During her first years of career, she stood out in her country, and later ventured into Mexico and the United States. She moved to the US and at the end of the 70s she joined the Fania All-Stars, along with other artists, fully joining salsa. In 1987, her star was debuted on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Cruz is part of a legacy that will continue throughout history. Her songs remain current and are part of the heritage of Latin America. She was nominated for two Grammys and three Latin Grammys.

The Postal Service of the United States included it in a selected group of five stamps, destined to the greats of Latin music; together with Selena, Tito Puente, Carmen Miranda and Carlos Gardel.

Selena, Mexico

The singer was born in the United States and was of Mexican descent. Her genre leaned toward ranchera, Mexican cumbia, and ballads. Selena is known as “the queen of Latin music” and has exceeded 70 million records worldwide.

In the 1990s, the US Billboard magazine named her “the most influential and best-selling Latin artist.” In addition, she is credited with catapulting Latin music in the United States and the world. Selena featured five albums ranked on the Billboard 200 at the same time. Her album Live (1993) won a Grammy for best Mexican-American music album, leaving behind the paradigms of those who considered the Tejano musical style as exclusive to men.

Selena was murdered in 1995. A great loss to show business. Her fans still regret her departure and imagine what she could achieve thanks to your talent. However, it leaves a very broad legacy for Latinos. After her death, she continues to be an example and inspiration for those who want to enter the market.

Juan Luis Guerra, Dominican Republic

The Billboard Winner Juan Luis Guerra — An Artist who help the genre in USA

Juan Luis Guerra is one of the most recognized Latin artists in the world. In the United States, he has been the recipient of 24 Latin Grammys, three Latin Billboard Awards and two American Grammys. He has recorded in Portuguese, English and, of course, in Spanish.

She trained at the largest private music college in the world, Berklee College of Music, in Boston. Earning a degree in jazz composition.

Guerra has made different tours of the US obtaining a box office record. He is a recognized exponent in the genre of merengue and bachata. In 2015, he collaborated with the financing of the Juan Luis Guerra Scholarship, presented by the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation for a low-income student.

The singer is of Dominican origin and today he works as a composer, arranger, musician and producer.

Héctor Lavoe, Puerto Rico

Considered one of the best salseros of all time. He is credited with helping to bring about the genre’s golden age in New York. In addition, to expand the popularity of salsa in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s.

In New York City, he takes his first steps as a bolero vocalist to make his way in what would be a great musical career. The Puerto Rican’s success kept on rising, he sang with the famous Willie Colón and together they toured different stages. Lavoe was also part of the Fania All Stars, a salsa and Latin music group. The Singer, as he was also baptized, died on June 29, 1993. He left an unforgettable musical legacy in the United States and the world; his songs and style are inspiration for many salsa performers today.

Marc Anthony, United States

For many, it could come as a great surprise that an American artist has such a marked and extraordinary Latin musical rhythm. However, his parents are Puerto Rican and he grew up with part of this culture. Marc Anthony is a singer of ballads, pop, salsa and bolero; ambassador of Latin music and culture.

When he began his career, many doubted whether he would be successful in Latin music.

“My career was not easy at first, because I neither looked nor sounded like the ‘typical salsero’. My sound was not considered usual for purists, ”he told The Associated Press.

The singer and actor has sponsored young talents such as Luis Figueroa, a Latino who was just beginning his career in the artistic medium. In addition, it has sold more than 30 million records around the world. Received 2 Grammys and 7 Latin Grammys. Marc Anthony has many fans worldwide. However, Latinos have a very special appreciation for him. In 2012, he started the Maestro Cares Foundation, to raise funds to build orphanages in Latin America.

If we wanted to mention those musicians to whom the expansion of Latin music is due, the list would be endless. Infinity of people who overcame cultural barriers to carry the name of their country, its rhythms and culture high. Currently, the city of Miami is considered as the starting point. The first contact of the young musicians, before venturing to the rest of the country. In addition, the same experts call it “the epicenter of the Latin industry.” This is due to the number of media, producers, multinationals and locals that are willing to open their doors to them and boost their talent.

Latin music represents an industry that does not stop, is profitable and is taking more and more space in the United States. Therefore, a decline is not expected in the coming years.

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The Five Most Influential Latin Artists of 2020

These are the top latin names of this year

The times are changing, influencers and new talents are gaining ground within the industry. Meet some of the most influential latin artists of 2020!

Latin America has been the birthplace of singers, songwriters, producers, and artists that have taken their talent to the USA and the rest of the world. With their flags held high and their nationalism deep rooted, they have been the ones that impulse their culture in North America and Canada, that way they have opened many opportunities to the next generations.

2020 was a year of challenges and so many changes, however some personalities from the media industry didn’t give up. Many of them took advantage to work on projects that they had in mind, and surprised their fans. While others were dedicated to remember their biggest hits, and used digital platforms to perform remote concerts. For this reason, we want to mention and give recognition to five latin artists that keep afloat during this year; they were revelations, and got a larger scope that anyone could have imagined.

Five Most Influential Latin Artists of 2020

Manny Cruz

The Dominican with Cuban origins has been one of the exposures of his genre, that has known how to take advantage of his fame to position himself within the media. He was the Dominican artist with more nominations on the Latin Grammy.

“The Lord loves so much and I feel so grateful with these two nominations. And very happy of how the people had embraced my music, and to be able to contribute a little to our merengue history”, expressed the artist.

Manny Cruz one of the most influential Latin Artists of 2020 — Manny Cruz

Cruz ‘s career has been on the rise, because it doesn’t leave space to anybody. During this year he had made collabs with Ilegales, Miriam Cruz, and a tribute to Juan Luis Guerra. He also has shared projects with the merenguero Eddy Herrera.

After being part of several groups, he decided to try a solo career without knowing what his destiny, and talent had prepared for him: he obtained the award for Solo Singer of The Year in the “Premios Soberanos”. In 2017 he was the winner of a Latin Grammy, thanks to writing together with his brother Daniel Santacruz, the single “Deja Vu” for Prince Royce and Shakira. In 2018 he got three awards at “Premios Soberanos”.

Manny has specialized in merengue and pop-ballad, he is a singer and songwriter. “Santo Domingo” is his latest music video, which has gained more than 2 million of views on YouTube. More and more are the singers that want to share their works with him, and of course have the opportunity to count on him as a songwriter. He is one the young musicians that are here to stay, and he is now well placed among the american audience, and spanish speakers.

Nathy Peluso

Another singer that has broken barriers, and has gained a position within the industry is Nathalia Dora, better known as Nathy Peluso. Even when she is only 25 years old, she is already a trendsetter in different musical genres. She is acclaimed for her fusions with rap, hip-hop, jazz, and salsa, a combination that is only possible for a woman like her. She was born in Argentina, and she was one of the honor guests invited to this year Latin Grammy.

She is a singer, songwriter, and started her career from very young. She studied theater with teachers from Dominican Republic, Cuba and Colombia. That way she took their accents, and it can be noted on the majority of her singles. She is inclined for blues and jazz styles.

Even when she is living in Spain, it has surprised the acceptance of her music in Latin America and the USA. 2020 has been her year, she released her first single of her next album: Business Woman, with which she wants to continue showing her strong side, and consolidate her place within the industry. Plus, she got her very first nomination to the Gardel Awards, and two nominations to the Latin Grammy in Best New Artist and Best Alternative Song categories.

Peluso has become one of the most important latin artists of the musical scene. She sings about feminism, sex, and even politics.

“Women let me know that I am an inspiration to them”, expressed the artist.

Prince Royce

Prince has been another musician that hasn’t stopped this year. He has topped the first places on Billboard, and was nominated to the Latin Grammy 2020 as Best Contemporary Album / Tropical Fusion. Alter Ego is the double album that makes him stay on everybody’s minds. Many important talents participated in this album, around 60 songwriters, 21 musicians, 23 songs, 18 musical producers, and it has obtained different golden and platinum records around the world. Beside that, it was the only album to debut on the number one of the latin Billboard list of 2020.

The Latin Music Academy considered him as one of the most consistent artists that has been kept loyal to his fans and his origins. The bachata singer has evolved over his career, and he keeps showing his versatility on the market. Geoffrey Royce Rojas de León is an American singer, songwriter, and music producer with Dominican origins.

Tonny Succar

Antonio Guillermo Succar better known as Tonny Succar is a Peruvian-American songwriter, arranger, percussionist, band leader, and producer. In 2019, he received the Latin Grammy for Best Salsa Album, and a second award as the Producer of the Year. As a young boy, he auditioned for a latin jazz ensemble in his school, and of course he got his desired position. Then, he went on to assume the family band’s Musical Director position, which was named Mixtura. After graduation he continued as an artist, and teaching other music students.

His talent went beyond borders, and had the opportunity to work with renowned artists such as: La India, Tito Nieves, Michael Stuart, Jon Secada, Obie Bermúdez, and Kevin Ceballo. He was also the crucial piece in a tribute to Michael Jackson, this project was a great chance for him to be close to artists that he admired. Succar is still forming, and is planning to be part of a musical legacy that goes beyond borders.

“If you don’t take the opportunity when it has to be, the train will leave” he commented after getting the Latin Grammy.

Tito Puente Jr.

He always knew that his career would be compared to his father’s, and he was very clear that it won’t be easy to reach that level. For that reason he decided to make his own name with his own identity. From very young he participated in different bands including a rock one. That way Tito Jr. formed his own trajectory and now is well known within the industry.

However he is continuing his father’s legacy at performing several of his most famous songs. He also has never doubted making tributes to his father, with different events for youngs and children where they learn to play different instruments. Tito was born in New York on June 2nd,1971, he is 49 years old, and has several albums of his own. He is very proud of his origins, but at the same time he has created his own name.

“I have my father ‘s spirit”, he said proudly.

This new generation is promising to hold their countries’ names high with passion, enthusiasm, and so much commitment.

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That’s how the Latin Grammys were

The 21st edition of the Latin Grammy

As expected, due to the global pandemic situation that hit us this year, the awarding of the 21st edition of the Latin Grammy was held online. In this way, neither the public nor the red carpet had participation this year. Some creatives recreated them in their homes and took the opportunity to take their respective photography.

The gala was held in the city of Miami with headquarters in other cities in Latin America. Several of the artists’ participations were also carried out under this modality.

The musical presentations were opened by the J Balvin show, one of the great favorites of the night. Who also broke a Guinness record for more nominations, surpassing the title obtained by Calle 13 in 2011. To receive his gramophone, he was dressed in black and then appeared in white. He interpreted the song “Rojo” and dedicated it to those who have had to fight against the COVID-19 virus. Balvin has recognized that this situation has affected him seriously and he has been immersed in depressive pictures.

“My heart is crying,” Balvin commented.

To the surprise of many, his heart actually turned the color of blood. His suit was dyed through some internal mechanism but leaving a large red stain on Balvin’s suit. Really, it seemed like his chest was bleeding incessantly.

J Balvin bled in the stage of the Latin Grammys

“Music humanizes us” was the theme of this year’s meeting. With the singer’s presentation, many were stunned and very sensitive. What did you think of his form of expression?
Natalia Jiménez paid tribute to Julio Iglesias, while the great Hector Lavoe also received recognition. Ricardo Montaner, Ivy Queen and Rauw Alejandro led the tribute.

Jesús Navarro, Ricardo Montaner, Victor Manuelle, Ivy Queen and Rauw Alejandro gave life to the song ‘El Cantante”’ in homage to Héctor Lavoe. Each of the interpreters, from their respective rhythms, created a perfect harmony and joined in a very emotional show. They quickly went viral and comments on social media grew by leaps and bounds. The spectators were pleased by a presentation that moved fibers.

Winners of the night

Natalia Lafourcade, Alejandro Sanz, René Residente, Mike Bahía, Ricky Martín, Caminlo, Rosalía, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Ozuna, Carlos Vives, Grupo Niche, Eddy Herrera and Daniel Santacruz were the winners of the night. The winners’ social networks were filled with videos of celebration and appreciation. A different night but full of many emotions!

In the Mejor Canción Tropical category, singer-songwriter Carlos Vives shone with his song “Canción para Rubén Blades”, in which Blades participated as a composer. Vives was excited, he did not hesitate to thank Rubén Blades for his support.
“This award with Rubén, congratulations to all the nominees, all the participants, Kany a very big kiss, thank you Sony, thank my entire team, our producers, the artists, Andrés Leal, thank you,” he said in the middle of happiness.

In his social networks he also wanted to dedicate his award to La Academia, his country, his people, each of his followers, his wife and his entire production team. He was also shown celebrating from home, together with family and friends.

In the Mejor Álbum de Salsa category, Grupo Niche shone. Album 40 is a tribute to the group’s musical trajectory. It is the first Latin Grammy that Colombian salseros receive, after having been nominated twice, in 2001 and in 2016.

“We have won the @LatinGRAMMYs for best salsa album for ’40’ our most recent musical production. With great emotion we say to you: Salseros and Nichistas of the world, infinite Thanks! Long live Latin music, salsa, long live the teacher # JairoVarela and long live Colombia!”, They expressed on their Twitter account.

The winning album was recorded for almost a year in studios in Miami, Cali and Puerto Rico. They wanted to maintain the musical guidelines of Jairo Varela and thus remember his roots, without losing his essence.

As Mejor álbum de Merengue/Bachata we have two winners, two Dominicans. A historical event that both celebrate with great fury. Eddy Herrera and Daniel Santacruz were the lucky ones. They tied in one of the closest categories!

Two Dominican Winners — Both Dominicans won the Latin Grammy in the same category

Eddy Herrera has a long history in the genre, known as “El Galán del Merengue”. The followers of his career also celebrated this achievement, being the singer’s first Latin Grammy. “Eddy Herrera Ahora” contains some of his most recent songs.

“It is an immense joy that I also want to share with all my followers and lovers of my performances. Thank you for supporting me throughout these years where you have been faithful to my musical productions ”, he expressed.

The Dominican did not hide his happiness and dedicated himself to thanking those who have supported him during so many years of journey.

“I am extremely grateful to the entire production team, as well as my fans, who are always the impetus to keep going. To achieve this magnificent product, we had, as in other opportunities, the dedication of one hundred percent of our great team, who gave themselves with the charisma, vocation and professionalism of always, an essential symbol of our artistic productions ”, said Eddy Herrera.

For his part, Daniel Santacruz will fondly remember the day that “Larimar” made him the recipient of his first Academy Award. After several nominations, his long-awaited moment finally arrived. In fact, his brother Manny Cruz was also among the nominees.

Even though he was born in the United States, he is of Dominican descent and grew up on its streets. He learned about its culture, its influences and is very proud of its roots.
“Grateful to God, to the Recording Academy and to all those responsible for participating in this important production that represents the sacrifice of many years of career and effort,” expressed the artist.

Santacruz was also part of the singers who entertained the meeting. He appeared from Boca Chica, Dominican Republic to the rhythm of “Larimar”, the promotional song for his album.
The young Dominican posted a video on his Instagram account where he is very happy. He thanked his family, wife, mother and his brother Manny Cruz. To its engineers, musicians, fans and manager. As well as his country, the people who listen and dance bachata, merengue and all his followers. Long live the Dominican Republic!

The event was one of total innovation and, surely, it will become a starting point for other awards. Of course, the dedication and effort on the part of the organization cannot be denied; as well as the artists involved, all left their hearts on stage and showed that better times are to come. So be it!