Gloria Estefan, the Cuban-American singer and longtime Miami Beach resident, was honored Sunday night during A Grammy Celebration of Latin Music, a two-hour television special presented by the Recording Academy and broadcast on CBS. The program, filmed in Miami, focused on the historical and cultural influence of Latin music in the United States and recognized Estefan for a five-decade career that helped bring Latin pop into the American mainstream. The honor was presented by acclaimed actress Rita Moreno, underscoring the intergenerational significance of Estefan’s contributions to music and culture.
During the ceremony, Estefan reflected on the idea that music transcends geographic and cultural boundaries and expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, according to the broadcast. Over the years, she has earned multiple Grammy Awards and has been widely credited with expanding opportunities for Latino artists in the U.S. music industry. Her early success with Miami Sound Machine, the band formed with her husband Emilio Estefan, played a central role in introducing bilingual and Latin-influenced pop music to a global audience.
A Grammy Celebration of Latin Music Highlights Legacy, Performances, and Cultural Influence
The television special featured a wide range of performances spanning genres and generations. Estefan returned to the stage to perform “Conga,” one of her most recognizable hits, while other performers included Angela Aguilar, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublé, Billy Idol, Luis Fonsi, Laura Pausini, Prince Royce, and Maren Morris. The program also paid tribute to foundational figures in Latin music history, including Desi Arnaz, Ritchie Valens, Selena, and Celia Cruz, reinforcing the genre’s lasting influence on American culture.
Hosted by Wilmer Valderrama and Roselyn Sánchez, the celebration blended live performances with tributes and interviews featuring prominent voices such as Carlos Santana, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Daddy Yankee. According to the Recording Academy, the special was designed to spotlight how Latin music has shaped popular culture across decades. A Grammy Celebration of Latin Music aired on Sunday, December 28, on CBS and is available for streaming on Paramount+ following its initial broadcast, ensuring continued access to the event’s performances and reflections on Latin music’s enduring legacy.
