Milo J and Rosalía Lead Awards at Latin Grammys in Las Vegas

Milo J won four awards at the 27th annual Latin Grammy ceremony held in Las Vegas on November 12. The 20-year-old Argentine singer took home the trophy for Record of the Year for his single Niño. He also won for Best Folk Album for La Vida Era Más Corta, Best Urban/Urban Fusion performance, and Best Recording Package. His wins stand out in an industry often dominated by reggaeton and polished pop productions.

Spanish vocalist Rosalía secured the most high-profile categories. She won Album of the Year and Best Alternative Album for her record LUX. She also took home Song of the Year, Best Pop Song, and Best Short Form Music Video. Rosalía opened the show with a medley of tracks from the album, featuring elaborate dancing and stage design.

Daddy Yankee received the Academy's Person of the Year award. Janet Jackson appeared unannounced to present the prize to the Puerto Rican vocalist and producer. In his acceptance speech, Daddy Yankee noted that the Puerto Rican government once tried to criminalize reggaeton musicians. He said officials called the artists criminals with no future during the genre's earliest days. He closed the night with a choreographed medley of his hit songs, referencing the music's history as a mix tape phenomenon.

Colombian singer Karol G won two trophies, including Best Urban Music Album and Best Reggaeton Performance. Tejano musician Bobby Pulido won his third Latin Grammy for Best Tejano Album. Pulido won the race for Texas' 15th congressional district on November 3. He is one of the few newly elected U.S. congressmen to receive the award.

The ceremony featured performances from various regions of the Spanish-speaking world. Milo J performed with members of a Uruguayan theatrical ensemble who wore colorful costumes. A tribute to Mexican composer José Alfredo Jiménez included mariachi and a rock band. Nathy Peluso, Luis Figueroa, and Miguel Colon honored salsa pioneer Willie Colón with a posthumous celebration. Colón's original 13-piece salsa band backed the performers.

The event highlighted the diversity of current music trends. Folk music gained substantial ground with Milo J's multiple victories. The night concluded with a mix of established stars and newer artists showcasing their craft. The awards recognized work from across the globe, from Argentina to Puerto Rico and Colombia.