The 2018 La Musa Awards ceremony was one for the books, honoring, as tradition holds, the world’s greatest Latin music creators and their memorable songs.
This year, the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame inducted five songwriters: Chucho Valdes, Gloria Trevi, Fernando Osorio, Carlos Rubira Infante, and KC Porter. The honorees were officially inducted at the sixth annual ceremony and gala that took place Thursday night (Oct. 18) at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Fla.
Chucho Valdes delivered a heartfelt speech
Before the Cuban pianist, composer and arranger took the stage to delight the audience with his Afro-Cuban piano melodies, Chucho accepted his inductee award. During his heartfelt speech, he dedicated his award to his late mother, who would’ve been celebrating her 100-year-old birthday on Oct. 18.Raphael took it way back with his performance
From Spain to Miami, 75-year-old Raphael made everyone nostalgic as he transported everyone to the past with his great hit “Mi Gran Noche.” The Spanish crooner, whose had a music trajectory for almost six decades, was honored with the Living Legend Award during the ceremony.
Gente de Zona and Karol G got the party started
Another fun highlight was when urban acts such as Gente de Zona and Karol Gtook to the stage. The Cuban duo, who were awarded the Triumph Award, sang their latest single “Te Duele,” and Karol G sang a live version of her sensual “Pineapple.” The Colombian singer also received an award at the 2018 gala.
Victor Manuelle received the Icon Award
This year’s Icon Award went to salsa singer Victor Manuelle. Emilio Estefan, who presented Manuelle with the steel statue, said Victor is a true icon because he represents humility and is the best representation of Latinos. After receiving his award, Manuelle had everyone tapping their feet and shaking their shoulders to his performance.
But Gloria Trevi stole the show
The most memorable moment, hands down, was when Gloria Trevi took the stage. Despite having some obstacles and turmoils in her career, the Mexican singer reclaimed her crown as an artist and composer and is unstoppable. After receiving her award, Trevi delivered a nearly 10-minute performance of some of her greatest hits.
Other artists who left their mark at the 2018 La Musa Awards included Leonel Garcia, Descemer Bueno, Erika Ender, and Silvestre Dangond.
