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The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) celebrated the luminaries of the music industry, policymakers, and artists whose influence has resonated throughout American music, culture, and society.
The 2023 RIAA Honors, a night to remember, took center stage with a special focus on the vibrant world of Latin music. The evening kicked off with a dynamic performance by members of the Broadway cast of “On Your Feet!” The Tony-nominated musical celebrates the lives of the evening’s honorees, the iconic Gloria and Emilio Estefan.
© Jim SaahRIAA Chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier and SVP State Policy & Latin Music Rafael Fernandez Jr. welcomed the enthusiastic crowd. Fernandez shared his heartfelt story of growing up in Miami, where Latin music served as the backdrop to his childhood and ignited his lifelong passion for the genre.
Emilio Estefan, a true trailblazer in the industry, was the first honoree of the evening. Numerous accolades have punctuated his impressive career, and this night was no different. Acclaimed actor Andy García, a dear friend of Emilio’s, surprised the audience with a special video message, describing Emilio as the embodiment of the term “trailblazer.” Emilio expressed his gratitude and emphasized his and Gloria’s commitment to sharing their music and culture, leaving a legacy of pride for their children and community.
© Jim SaahNext up, RIAA Chief Policy Officer Morna Willens presented the Policymaker of the Year awards to Congresswomen María Elvira Salazar and Veronica Escobar. Congresswomen spoke of the powerful connection between communities and their culture, with Congresswoman Salazar fondly reminiscing about the Estefans‘ profound impact on Hispanic people in the United States.
Congresswoman Escobar echoed her sentiments, expressing her deep appreciation for the honor and dedication to improving her border community. Returning to the stage, Rafael Fernandez Jr. celebrated Maria Fernandez, Executive Vice President & COO of Latin Iberia at Sony Music Entertainment, as the Executive of the Year. Maria Fernandez has been a trailblazer, mentoring the next generation and advocating for her peers in the music industry. She thanked Sony Music for their unwavering support in promoting Latin music globally.
© Jim SaahRIAA COO Michele Ballantyne presented the Artist of the Year award to Sebastián Yatra, who received video tributes from John Legend and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Yatra’s outstanding accomplishments were highlighted as he treated the audience to a captivating performance of his RIAA-certified singles. The singer expressed his belief in the transformative power of music and his gratitude for the opportunities it has given him.
© Jim SaahThe grand finale of the evening was the presentation of the Icon title to Gloria Estefan. In a heartfelt video message, Andy García praised Gloria’s extraordinary influence and inspiration in music and as a cultural ambassador. Gloria expressed her pride in using music to bring about positive change and recognized the incredible achievements of Latin artists, particularly women.
