Cuban singer Omara Portuondo expressed her delight this Wednesday over the nomination of her album Eternamente Omara for the 27th Annual Latin Grammy Awards in the category of Best Traditional Tropical Album. At 95, she stands as one of the most senior figures vying for this prestigious Latin music award.
"I'm extremely happy and thrilled that at 95, my album Eternamente Omara, a project I worked on with music producer Roberto Fonseca, has been nominated for the Latin Grammys," the singer shared on her social media. She appeared smiling, holding the album's vinyl.
The album, produced by Fonseca and released in September 2025 under the Warner Music Spain label, features collaborations with Nathy Peluso, Pablo López, Angélique Kidjo, and Silvio Rodríguez.
Gratitude and Family Ties
Portuondo used the occasion to express gratitude to the artists who collaborated on the album and those who made the project possible. She offered a special acknowledgment "to the Latin Recording Academy, which has treated me with such love and respect over the years, and to all its members."
She also dedicated a heartfelt message to her family — Ariel, Rossio, and Yodelys — and warmly welcomed her newly born great-granddaughter.
"Thanks to my family... and my new, lovely, and beautiful great-granddaughter, Tokyo. Welcome to life," Omara said.
Reflecting on a Legacy
When asked about the possibility of winning, the artist was candid: "If this album were to win, it would mean feeling deeply satisfied with so many years of work, dedication, and love for music."
Portuondo's accolades at the Latin Grammys include three awards: in 2009, she won for Gracias in the Best Contemporary Tropical Album category; in 2019, she received the honorary Lifetime Achievement Award; and in 2023, she secured another Grammy for Vida, which was named Best Traditional Tropical Album. At 93, she became the oldest artist to win a Latin Grammy for an album in the history of the Latin Recording Academy.
Historic Parallels
At 95, Portuondo matches the age of another Cuban, Ángela Álvarez, who made history at the Latin Grammys. In 2022, Álvarez was nominated and won the award for Best New Artist, becoming the oldest nominee for these awards. She passed away in December 2024.
Portuondo's nomination comes during a year of strong Cuban representation at the 2026 Latin Grammys: eight artists from the island are competing in various categories, including Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Leoni Torres, Alex Cuba, Tania León, and Yeisy Rojas.
In the same category as Portuondo — Best Traditional Tropical Album — fellow Cubans Dayhan Díaz and Leoni Torres are also contenders, alongside Los Tri-O and Gilberto Santa Rosa.
The ceremony will take place on November 12, 2026, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be broadcast by Univision. A few days earlier, on November 9, singer-songwriter Francisco "Pancho" Céspedes will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award during Latin Grammy Week, joining the extensive list of this year's top favorites.
Omara Portuondo and the Latin Grammy Awards
Who is Omara Portuondo?
Omara Portuondo is a celebrated Cuban singer known for her contributions to traditional tropical music. At 95, she continues to make waves in the music industry with her recent Latin Grammy nomination.
What is the significance of Omara Portuondo's nomination?
Her nomination is significant as it highlights her enduring impact on Latin music and recognizes her as one of the oldest artists to compete for this prestigious award.
Who collaborated with Omara on her nominated album?
Her album Eternamente Omara includes collaborations with prominent artists such as Nathy Peluso, Pablo López, Angélique Kidjo, and Silvio Rodríguez.