Gloria Estefan, Lenny Tavárez, Ángela Aguilar, and more celebrated the creators shaping the sound of Latin music
The 12th anniversary of LA MUSA AWARDS, presented by the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame (LSHOF), lit up Miami last night with an evening filled with powerful performances, emotional tributes, and heartfelt moments that paid homage to the songwriters and composers whose music continues to define generations.
The ceremony, hosted by actor and singer Jason Canela, took place at the Flamingo Theater Ballroom at The Four Ambassadors and brought together an extraordinary mix of musical legends, rising stars, and industry leaders—all united by one purpose: to celebrate the art of the Latin song.
The evening opened with a deeply emotional moment as José Alfredo Jiménez Medel accepted the posthumous induction of his late father, the legendary José Alfredo Jiménez, one of Mexico’s most cherished songwriters. His timeless compositions—beloved across generations—set the tone for a night dedicated to honoring the enduring legacy of Latin music creators.
Rock legend Enrique Bunbury followed, marking a milestone moment that connected generations of Latin rock fans to the songwriting tradition LA MUSA continues to celebrate. Alex González, drummer of the iconic Mexican band Maná, took the stage to present Bunbury’s award, emphasizing the mutual admiration between two of the most influential figures in Latin rock.
Among the ceremony’s highlights was Gloria Estefan presenting the La Musa Founders Award to Mike O’Neill, President & CEO of BMI, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to protecting and uplifting the rights of songwriters. Estefan delivered a heartfelt introduction underscoring O’Neill’s transformative impact on the music industry, while her husband Emilio Estefan, also in attendance, looked on proudly from the audience.
Lenny Tavárez, recipient of the La Musa Triunfador Award, took the stage after being presented by acclaimed producer Sergio George, highlighting the evolving bridge between urban Latin sounds and traditional songwriting excellence.
Meanwhile, Julio Reyes Copello—who could not attend in person—sent a heartfelt video message celebrating Mónica Vélez, whom he inducted into the Hall of Fame and praised for her poetic voice and profound impact on Latin pop. Jorge Mejia did the same for Andrés Castro, honoring his extraordinary career as a songwriter and producer behind some of the biggest Latin hits.
