Description: (1: L-R Desmond Child, Gloria Estefan, Mike O’Neill, Emilio Estefan and Enrique Bunbury; 2: L-R Lenny Tavárez and Angela Aguilar)
Miami, FL. (October 17, 2025) — 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.
A standout musical moment of the evening came when Jorge Luis Piloto took the stage with the LA MUSA band, performing a powerful rendition of his classic hit “Yo No Sé Mañana.” The performance captivated the audience and underscored Piloto’s legacy as one of the most influential songwriters in Latin music history.
The Desi Arnaz Pioneer Award was presented to the multi-award-winning composer Charles Fox, whose career has left an indelible mark on television, film, and Latin music.
Marti Cuevas presented the Ralph S. Peer Publishers Award to industry pioneers Juan Hidalgo and Nelson Estévez of J&N Publishing, honoring their instrumental role in discovering and developing Latin music talent over the past decades.
The La Musa Elena Casals Award was presented by Delia Orjuela to Ángela Aguilar, celebrating her as a new-generation artist carrying forward the torch of musical tradition with grace and authenticity.
The evening also featured appearances by Rudy Pérez and Desmond Child, co-founders of the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, who shared heartfelt words on the organization’s mission to preserve and honor the creators behind the world’s most beloved Latin songs.
Adding to the star-studded atmosphere, special guests including Howie Dorough of the Backstreet Boys, Pascal, and other notable figures from across the music and entertainment industry graced the black carpet, joining the celebration of Latin music’s most influential creators.
Old Parr Whisky, proud sponsor of the 12th annual LA MUSA AWARDS, joined the celebration to honor the creators and visionaries shaping the rich cultural tapestry of Latin music. In alignment with this year’s theme, “Hometown Sounds,” Old Parr paid tribute to the stories and roots that inspire each artist and guest, elevating the evening with its signature cocktails and a toast to creativity, success, and community—inviting everyone to savor the unforgettable Golden Moments that make LA MUSA a timeless celebration of music and storytelling.
As the evening drew to a close, emotions ran high among artists, presenters, and guests, who rose for a standing ovation celebrating the timeless power of songwriting to transcend borders, genres, and generations. The night reached its emotional peak with an unforgettable on-stage performance featuring Charlie Fox, Emilio Estefan, and Sergio George, who joined forces in a spectacular musical moment led by the incomparable Marlow Rosado and his band. Their impromptu collaboration filled the room with joy, unity, and admiration — a perfect finale to a night honoring the creators behind the songs that define Latin music history.
For more information about the LA MUSA AWARDS and the Latin Songwriters Hall Of Fame, visit www.LatinSongHall.org.
