The recipients of the Special Merit Awards presented by the Latin Recording Academy truly represents the global influence of Latin music and artists. Award winners range from North and South America, Europe, and island nations in the Caribbean.
The list of Special Merit honourees is fitting since the 2023 Latin Grammy Awards are being presented from Spain; the first time the awards have been held outside of the United States.
Carmen Linares, Mijares, Arturo Sandoval, Simone, Soda Stereo, and Ana Torroja are all being presented Lifetime Achievement Awards as a part of the Latin Grammy Week festivities.
Alex Acuna, Gustavo Santaolalla, and Wison Torres will all be receiving Trustees Awards.
Latin Recording Academy CEO Manuel Abud spoke on the awards saying, “we are extremely honored for the opportunity to recognize these great figures of Ibero-America, whose musical legacy continues to inspire new generations. We look forward to celebrating their virtuoso careers during Latin Grammy Week in Seville this coming November.”
The Lifetime Achievement is presented to an artist for work of excellence in Latin music; while the Trustee Award is presented for tremendous contributions to Latin music.
Along with a new international flavour, the Latin Grammy Awards has added several new categories this year including a songwriting award.