Awarded Chucho Valdés with Grammy Latino to Excellence

With the gratitude to his father and the certainty that he has a lot of work and emotions to live, received the exceptional Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés, the Award for Musical Excellence presented by the Academy, in the framework of the 19th edition of the Latin Grammys.

The first statuette was for the musical genius who came to a halt in their work commitments in London. The recognition came from another of the greats of Cuban music, Omara Portuondo, who attended the event to join the tribute to his compatriot.

The ceremony held in Las Vegas, two nights after the official opening, also recognized the talent and dedication to Latin music of Dyango, Erasmo Carlos, Andy Montañez, Wilfrido Vargas, José María Napoleón and Yuri. The artists, visibly moved, "come out more full of affection and respect" after "a simple but profound homage" according to Gabriel Abaroa Jr., president of the institution.

Also characterized this event, held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas, the recognition of the diversity of Latin music represented by world-class jazz players such as Chucho Valdés to Andy Montañés, who has brought salsa from Puerto Rico to the most demanding music lover and he dedicated the prize to his daughter, wife and mother.

Between applause and many emotions passed the delivery of the Musical Excellence Awards that according to its organizers "have become the anchor of this great ship that is our Academy".