Karol G Wins Two Major Honors at the 2026 American Music Awards

Karol G had a major night at the 2026 American Music Awards, taking home two big honors and delivering an emotional speech that celebrated her music, her fans, and the global rise of Latin culture.

The Colombian superstar received the International Artist Award of Excellence during the ceremony on Monday, May 25. Music legend John Legend presented the award, praising Karol for her worldwide influence and success.

Accepting the honor, Karol G became emotional as she reflected on her journey.

“Wow. What an honor,” she said. “This career has given me the most important thing in my life: purpose.”

The singer explained that music helped her find meaning and connect deeply with fans around the world. She said her songs have become “a healing place” and “a safe place” for many people.

Karol also thanked her supporters in Spanish, telling fans around the world that she loves them and appreciates them deeply.

Moments after her speech, the surprises continued. John Legend returned to the microphone to announce that Karol had also won Best Latin Album for her latest project, Tropicoqueta. The singer screamed with excitement as the crowd cheered.

Earlier in the night, Karol performed “Ivonny Bonita,” one of the songs from the award-winning album.

The International Artist Award of Excellence is one of the AMAs’ rarest honors. The award recognizes artists whose music and cultural impact reach audiences around the world. Before Karol G, the last artist to receive it was Whitney Houston in 2009. Other past recipients include Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, and the Bee Gees.

In a statement released before the show, AMA executive producers Barry Adelman and Alexi Mazareas praised Karol’s influence on music and culture.

“Karol G has redefined what it means to be a global artist,” they said. “Through her authenticity and connection with fans, she has helped bring Latin music to unprecedented heights.”

The award comes during a historic period in Karol G’s career. Earlier this year, she became the first Latina woman to headline Coachella in the festival’s 27-year history.

During her Coachella performance, Karol proudly represented her roots.

“I am Carolina from Medellín, Colombia, and today I am the first Latina woman to headline Coachella,” she told the crowd. “This is not just about me, this is about my Latino community.”

Karol G has continued breaking barriers in recent years. Her 2023 album MAÑANA SERÁ BONITO became the first Spanish-language album by a woman to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album later earned her a Grammy for Best Música Urbana Album.

Looking back on that era, Karol previously shared that the music was created during one of the most difficult times in her life.

“I was just doing music, trying to heal my heart,” she said.

Now, with two more major awards added to her growing list of achievements, Karol G continues proving that her voice and influence reach far beyond music.