Colombian singer, songwriter, actor, entrepreneur and one of the biggest influences in the Latin music industry, Carlos Vives, received last night the Billboard Hall of Fame Award. He received the honor in celebration of his artistic career and his incredible influence in multiple fields. In addition to receiving the prestigious award, Vives took over the stage at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida delighting his fans from around the world with a medley of his greatest hits. The award ceremony took place last night at 8 pm/7c and was broadcast on the Telemundo network.
The award was presented by Emilio Estefan, who has been a key piece in Vives career and who opened the doors of his studio when the Colmbian star first arrived in Miami. When presenting him with the award, Estefan let Carlos know how proud and honored he feels to have been part of this special moment. Vives received the award with much excitement after his explosive presentation: “Almost 30 years ago, I decided to make my music in an original way, without copying the genres of that time. I searched for my own pop and rock sounds of my town apart from the traditional music of Colombia, hence a new sound was born. At that time, much of the industry did not see it but the public did ... Today, I thank Billboard for recognizing it tonight, and I want to share it with the entire Vives Team; with my record label Sony; Gaira Música Local; my manager Walter Kolm, because he always believed in me; my wife Claudia, my children and my country Colombia. And a message to the new generations, each of you are unique and original. Be the same with your music. Thank you Billboard.”
The influential artist received this award for his successful singing career, outstanding performance as an actor, television host, judge of “La Voz” (The Voice) and owner of restaurant and music club Gaira. Moreover, he is the founder of “Tras la Perla,” (Behind the Pearl), an initiative to improve people s quality of life in his native Santa Marta and its surroundings, with educational and environmental programs. And to top it off, he is also the founder of the Rio Grande music school in Bogotá, where children develop artistic skills.
In addition to receiving the award, Carlos Vives blew the house away with a medley of his greatest hits, “Cumbiana”, “La Bicicleta”, “Gota Fría” and “Pa Mayte”. With a spectacular live performance, the artist filled the stage with great energy, culture and vibrant colors. The performance featured a series of images, taking viewers on a musical journey through various stages, and included a recreation of the colorful buildings from Vives hometown meanwhile dancers dressed in traditional Colombian Vallenato clothing joined him throughout the performance. Without a doubt, Carlos Vives is a worthy representative of his culture and carries it highly wherever he performs.
