Karol G to Receive International Artist Award of Excellence at 2026 AMAs

Karol G is set to receive the prestigious International Artist Award of Excellence at the 52nd American Music Awards, where she will also take the stage as a performer.

The honor, announced by CBS and Dick Clark Productions, recognizes artists whose music and cultural impact have resonated globally. The award has not been presented since Whitney Houston received it in 2009, placing Karol G among an elite list of past recipients that includes Aerosmith, Bee Gees, Beyoncé, Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson and Rod Stewart.

In a joint statement, executive producers Barry Adelman and Alexi Mazareas praised Karol G for redefining what it means to be a global artist, highlighting her authenticity, groundbreaking achievements and role in bringing Latin music to unprecedented international heights.

The recognition arrives during another milestone year for the Colombian superstar. Earlier this year, Karol G became the first Latina artist to headline Coachella, further cementing her place as one of the most influential artists in the world.

Her upcoming Viajando Por El Mundo Tropitour has already become one of the year’s biggest live events, selling 2 million tickets in just four days. Originally planned as a 39 date run, the stadium tour has expanded to 63 shows worldwide due to overwhelming demand.

The tour supports her 2025 album Tropicoqueta, which debuted at No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart and earned her three AMA nominations this year, including best Latin album.

Karol G’s commercial impact continues to grow at a historic level. She has amassed more than 128 billion career streams and over 310 RIAA Platinum certifications in the United States. Her 2023 album Mañana Será Bonito made history as the first Spanish language album by a woman to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

The 2026 American Music Awards will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 25, with Queen Latifah serving as host. The show will also feature performances from Hootie & the Blowfish, KATSEYE, Keith Urban and Maluma, among others.

Meanwhile, Taylor Swift leads this year’s nominations with eight nods, followed by Morgan Wallen, Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter and sombr with seven each.