Gloria Estefan didn’t just take home a Grammy on Sunday—she used the moment to speak out on a cause close to her heart.
After winning the Best Tropical Latin Album at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, the Cuban-born singer addressed the ongoing ICE raids affecting immigrants in the United States.
“I hope that our government listens to our plea for humanity, which is the main thing we need in this world,” the 68-year-old said during her press appearance at Crypto.com Arena, alongside her husband and longtime manager, Emilio Estefan.
Gloria, who became a U.S. citizen in 1974, emphasized that the country must remain true to its democratic principles, calling them “the reason why everyone wants to be here.”
Raíces Brings a Long-Awaited Triumph
Her Grammy win for Raíces, her first Spanish-language album in 18 years, marked Gloria’s sixth American Grammy.
She triumphed over other Latin music heavyweights including Grupo Niche, Rubén Blades, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Alain Pérez, and Roberto Delgado & Orquesta.
The album’s 13 tracks were largely written and produced by Emilio, reflecting the couple’s close personal and professional partnership.
One standout song, Mi Niño Bello (Para Sasha), is a heartfelt dedication to their 13-year-old grandson, Sasha, whom Gloria described as having a “very beautiful and close relationship” with her.
Family, Music, and Stage Collaborations
The Estefans were joined on the red carpet by their youngest daughter, Emily Estefan, 31, who also co-wrote music and lyrics with her mother for Michael Greif’s upcoming musical Basura, set to run at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre this May through July.
Amid the awards, the family shared a warm reunion with Sharon Osbourne, marking her first public appearance since the passing of her husband, Ozzy Osbourne, last July.
“You look wonderful! It’s good to see you!” the 73-year-old widow beamed, receiving condolences from Gloria in return.
From Miami Sound Machine to Iconic Legacy
Gloria and Emilio’s love story began in 1976 while performing together in the Miami Sound Machine, and their musical impact has only grown since.
Gloria has scored 29 Billboard Hot 100 hits, including classics like Conga, Rhythm is Gonna Get You, and Get On Your Feet.
She also achieved three No. 1 hits with Anything For You, Don’t Wanna Lose You, and Coming Out of the Dark.
With over 100 million records sold worldwide, the Grammy-winning singer continues to captivate audiences, drawing 5.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Her accolades include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Kennedy Center Honors, Gershwin Award, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Full Grammy Awards 2026 Winners
Gloria’s win was just one highlight in a night full of musical achievements across genres:
- Record of the Year: Kendrick Lamar with SZA – luther
- Song of the Year: Billie Eilish – WILDFLOWER
- Best Pop Solo Performance: Lola Young – Messy
- Best Pop Vocal Album: Lady Gaga – MAYHEM
- Best Dance/Electronic Album: FKA twigs – EUSEXUA
- Best Rock Album: Turnstile – NEVER ENOUGH
- Best Alternative Music Album: The Cure – Songs of a Lost World
- Best R&B Song: Kehlani – Folded
- Best Rap Album: Kendrick Lamar – GNX
- Best Latin Pop Album: Natalia Lafourcade – Cancionera
- Best Tropical Latin Album: Gloria Estefan – Raíces
- Best Global Music Album: Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia – Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo
The list continues with winners in jazz, gospel, classical, country, and contemporary Christian music, reflecting the wide range of talent celebrated at this year’s Grammys.
Advocacy and Music: A Legacy in Harmony
For Gloria, the night was more than a personal milestone—it was a platform to speak on humanity and justice while celebrating decades of artistic achievement.
With family by her side, a new musical project on the horizon, and a Grammy trophy in hand, she proved that music and advocacy can shine together on the world’s biggest stage.
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