AceShowbiz - Rosalía was celebrated as the Woman of the Year at the 2026 Billboard Latin Women in Music gala held on Thursday, April 23. Although the Barcelona-born artist could not attend the event in person due to her ongoing LUX Tour, she expressed her heartfelt appreciation through a video message shared during the ceremony.

Rosalía has been recognized as one of the most influential voices of her generation, earning praise for her groundbreaking fusion of traditional Spanish-language music with contemporary innovation. A statement from the organizers highlighted her role as a cultural trailblazer, noting, "Rosalía has consistently pushed the boundaries of Spanish-language music, blending tradition with bold innovation and captivating audiences worldwide." Her recent album, LUX, was cited as a defining work that cements her status as a leading creative force and sparks conversations globally.

The Woman of the Year award has previously honored prominent Latin music figures such as Shakira, Karol G, and Selena Gomez, underscoring its prestige within the industry.

During the televised gala, which was hosted by Chiquis and broadcast by Telemundo, Rosalía shared a dynamic performance of her song "Focu'ranni," filmed earlier in Madrid as part of her LUX Tour. The visually striking presentation featured her dressed as a white swan, her hair flowing dramatically, surrounded by a troupe of about a dozen dancers, creating a powerful artistic statement.

The event also recognized other major Latin music talents with awards honoring various achievements: Gloria Trevi received the Lifetime Achievement award, Julieta Venegas was honored for Artistic Excellence, Becky G for Global Impact, Ivy Queen as a Pioneer, Young Miko as an Unstoppable Artist, Joy for Spirit of Change, and Lola Indigo for Artistic Evolution.

Below is the full text of Rosalía’s acceptance speech, delivered via video:

Hello Billboard! I hope the gala is going wonderfully. I'm currently on tour, which is why it's been impossible for me to be there in person, but thank you so much for this recognition. It's an incredible honor to receive it. I wouldn't be who I am without all the women I've read about, listened to, and met. So, I'd like to remain open to the world and continue learning from the people I care about.

I want to thank my mother Pilar for giving me life. Pili for living it with me. Loli for simply existing. Alexa and Carlota, who always make me laugh and are always there. Thank you to Jodi, Sam, Jen, and Vivienne for always supporting me. Thank you to Rebeca for believing in me. And thank you to my entire team made up of women. Thank you to Caroline and Angélica for being part of LUX. To Pat (Patti Smith) and Björk for always inspiring me. And to so many others - I could go on endlessly with this speech.

Alexander McQueen once said: "I want people to be afraid of the women I dress." And perhaps that would be one of my greatest wishes. I would love for people to be afraid the women who listen to my songs. I hope they can always feel free and unstoppable, because they are.

And thank you so much, Billboard, for continuing to celebrate women. I hope we see each other very soon, and sending lots of love to everyone at the gala. I hope you keep enjoying it to the fullest. A big kiss.

The annual Latin Women in Music gala continues to be a vital platform for honoring the achievements and influence of women in the Latin music industry, celebrating their impact on culture and the global music scene. Through its recognition of artists like Rosalía, the ceremony reinforces the importance of female leadership and creativity in shaping the future of music.

As Rosalía tours the world with LUX, her innovative approach to music and her dedication to empowering women remain at the forefront of her artistic mission. This award not only acknowledges her accomplishments but also highlights her role as an inspiration to countless fans and fellow artists worldwide.

With her powerful speech and compelling performance, Rosalía has once again demonstrated why she is regarded as a leading figure in Latin music and culture today.