Raphael named Person of the Year at the Latin Grammys

Spanish singer Raphael will be recognized next November in the United States as Person of the Year at the Latin Grammy Awards . The Latin Recording Academy thus pays tribute to his career spanning more than six decades, "which have made him a true ambassador for Latin music worldwide," the organization said in a statement. The award will be presented at a gala and concert on November 12 in Las Vegas, during Latin Grammy Week.

"I feel deeply grateful to the Latin Recording Academy for this recognition, which I have dreamed of receiving for many years," Raphael says in the statement released by the organization of the major Latin music awards. "Being named Person of the Year excites me immensely; it's the best way to celebrate so many years of dedication and love for music," adds the artist, who overcame brain lymphoma late last year.

This 2025 marks his return to the stage with Raphaelísimo , a new tour that will take him through Spain and Latin America.

Manuel Abud , CEO of The Latin Recording Academy, emphasizes the Spanish singer's "unmistakable" style. "His resilience and constant reinvention have kept him relevant throughout the decades, making him a source of inspiration for new generations of Latin music creators," says Abud. "We are very proud to pay this well-deserved tribute to Raphael for an exemplary artistic career that has transcended borders and languages."

A life dedicated to music

From an early age, Raphael showed a penchant for singing. At four, he discovered his calling, and at nine, he was awarded the Best Children's Voice in Europe prize at the Salzburg Festival.

In 1966 and 1967, she represented Spain at the Eurovision Song Contest with the songs "Yo soy aquel" and "Hablemos del amor ," which boosted her international fame. In 1970, she performed on the American program "The Ed Sullivan Show ."

Throughout his career, Raphael has performed an extensive musical oeuvre, largely written by composers such as Manuel Alejandro and José Luis Perales . His most recognized songs include "Digan lo que digan , " "Qué sabe nadie, " and " Escándalo ."

His career also includes notable film performances in films such as As the Sun Goes Down (1967), The Gulf (1969) and My Big Night (2015).

"Thank you to the fans who have always been by my side, to my dear colleagues, and to the entire music industry," adds the 82-year-old artist. "It's an honor I will always hold in my heart. I look forward to reuniting with everyone in November to celebrate together and return so much love in the form of songs. A huge hug and my most sincere gratitude."

Singers such as Julio Iglesias , Joan Manuel Serrat , Shakira , Miguel Bosé and Juan Gabriel , among many others, have also received the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year award, which recognizes both the artistic career and humanitarian work of the honorees.