Ricardo Montaner accepts Legacy Award at Latin AMAs 2024, delivers riveting mix of his classics

Ricardo Montaner is synonymous with romance, performing some of the best love songs in Latin music. For this and his many decades in music, the Venezuelan singer-songwriter was honored with a special award for outstanding artistic legacy at the 2024 Latin AMAs on Thursday (April 25).

Before taking the stage for a riveting performance, and perhaps one of the best of the night, Montaner gave a heartfelt speech, which had a special message for the up-and-comers. “First of all, I thank my Lord Jesus for fulfilling my promises, every one of them,” Montaner began. “Obviously to my beloved wife who has been with me since the beginning of my career, to each of my children who always push me. Tonight, I want to give a message to all my colleagues that I see here tonight, especially those who are just starting out. It's worth it to keep working hard, it's worth celebrating 45 years of career and going on.”

He then took the stage for an epic medley, which began with Sergio George on piano and Manuel Medrano singing 'Yo Que Te Amé'. Then, to get everyone on their feet, he segued into a salsa version of “La Cima del Cielo” and to end on a high note, he sang the 90's classic “Vamos Pa' La Conga” featuring Silvestre Dangond and DJ Adoni. joining the party.

The 2024 Latin American Music Awards took place Thursday live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Univision. Hitmakers Feid and Peso Pluma lead this year's nominations list with 12 nods each. The Colombian singer and Mexican star, who are nominated for the coveted artist of the year and album of the year awards, are followed by top contenders Bad Bunny (11), Grupo Frontera (11), Karol G (9), Shakira (9 ), Eslabon Armado (8) and Fuerza Regida (8).

Thalia, Becky G, Alejandra Espinoza and Carlos Ponce took part in the awards ceremony which was presented in a mix of English and Spanish, marking the first time any major US awards show had a bilingual broadcast.