Raphael Named Person of the Year

The Latin Recording Academy announced on Tuesday that the Spanish singer and actor Raphael will be honored as the 2025 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year at the Latin Grammys.

The 82-year-old artist, known for a robust voice and a theatrical performance style, boasts a six-decade musical career. Born Rafael Martos in Linares, Spain, in 1943, Raphael was raised in Madrid and showed his singing abilities at a young age. (He won the Best Child Voice in Europe award at the Salzburg Festival when he was nine.) He released his self-titled debut album in 1965 and, as a teenager, he competed in Eurovision and gained a following of fans after placing fifth and sixth in 1966 and 1967. The song he performed, “Yo Soy Aquél,” gained him a following of fans. Later, he continued his career with famed ballads such as “Que Tal Te Va Sin Mi,” “Estar Enamorado,” and “Estuve Enamorado.”

He has also worked as an actor throughout his career, appearing in films such as 1967’s Al Ponerse El Sol, 1969’s El Golfo, and 2015’s Mi Gran Noche. He was also the subject of the 2022 docu-series Raphaelismo, which looked at his life and music. In 2024, Raphael released his latest album Ayer…Aún and announced the tour Raphaelísimo, which will take place this year and comes after he overcame a brain lymphoma he was diagnosed with in 2024.

“I feel deeply grateful to the Latin Recording Academy for this recognition that I have dreamed of receiving for many years. Being named Person of the Year thrills me immensely; it’s the best way to celebrate so many years of dedication and love for music,” the singer said in a statement. “Thank you to the audiences that have always stood by my side, to my dear colleagues, and the entire music industry. It’s an honor I will always carry in my heart.”

A gala will take place on Nov. 12 to celebrate Raphael, with a tribute concert that will include his songs performed by other artists, collaborators, and friends. “I look forward to reuniting with everyone in November to celebrate together and give back all that affection through songs. A huge hug and my most sincere gratitude,” Raphael said.

“We feel tremendously proud to pay this well-deserved tribute to Raphael for an exemplary artistic career that has transcended borders and languages,” said Manuel Abud, CEO of the Latin Recording Academy. “His unmistakable style, resilience, and constant reinvention have kept him relevant throughout the decades, making him a source of inspiration for new generations of Latin music creators.”

Past Person of the Year honorees include Carlos Vives, Juanes, Shakira, Carlos Santana, and Gilberto Gil, among others. This year’s Latin Grammys will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Nov. 13.