In a spectacular celebration of Latin music and talent, the 2023 Latin Grammys unfolded in Seville, Spain, on Thursday night, and it was the women who stole the spotlight. Colombian powerhouses Karol G and Shakira, along with Mexico’s Natalia Lafourcade, emerged as the big winners, each clinching three major awards.
Karol G’s historic album, “Mañana Será Bonito,” not only secured the coveted Album of the Year accolade but also made history by becoming the first album by a Latin woman to top the Billboard 200. This triumph was complemented by the Best Urban Album award, solidifying Karol G’s position as a trailblazer in the Latin music scene. Her collaboration with Shakira on “TQG” earned them the Best Urban/Fusion Performance award.
Expressing her elation, Karol G, during the acceptance of the Best Urban Album award, remarked, “How cool is it for a woman to win this?” As the night progressed and she secured Album of the Year, tears of joy flowed. “This album changed my life, and it’s incredible that it’s changed the life of so many people,” she emotionally shared, expressing gratitude to her former label, Universal Music.
Shakira, equally triumphant, took home Song of the Year and Best Pop Song awards for her collaboration with Argentine DJ Bizarrap on “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53.” Notably, Shakira’s emotional journey was highlighted, having left Spain in the spring after parting ways with her longtime partner, Gerard Piqué. Her dedication of the award to her sons, Milan and Sasha, emphasized a commitment to future happiness.
Meanwhile, Mexican singer/songwriter Natalia Lafourcade, a seasoned winner at the Latin Grammys, clinched Best Singer/Songwriter Album for “De Todas Las Flores” and Best Singer/Songwriter Song for the track of the same name. Despite not being present to collect her Record of the Year award for “De Todas Las Flores,” her presence was felt through her producer.
The Best New Artist award went to Joaquina, a young Venezuelan singer/songwriter, who tearfully expressed her gratitude, debunking early skepticism about recording her own songs. Edgar Barrera, the lead nominee, made his mark by winning three awards for Producer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Best Regional Song for “un X100to.”
The 2023 Latin Grammys, held outside the United States for the first time, embraced Spanish culture with performances leaning towards the country’s musical roots. Notable performances included Rosalía’s tribute to Rocío Jurado and Alejandro Sanz’s rendition of “Corazón Partío.” The evening also honored actor Antonio Banderas, who owns a musical theater in Southern Spain, adding a touch of cinematic flair to the musical celebration.
