Karol G Wins Her First Grammy: ‘I Hope This Is the First of Many’

Karol G’s first Grammy victory at the 66th annual Grammy Awards (Feb. 4) marks a pivotal moment in her booming career.

Adorned in a light greyish blue gown — her signature long pink hair complementing her ensemble — the celebrated superstar was visibly elated to earn the Grammy for best música urbana album with her groundbreaking 2023 release, Mañana Será Bonito. “Que viva Colombia,” shouted Maluma, her fellow genre peer from Medellín, after Christina Aguilera presented Karol G as the winner.

Already a recipient of five Latin Grammy Awards and four Billboard Music Awards, this Grammy win adds a significant accolade to her collection. Her acceptance speech was a heartfelt reflection of her journey, expressing overwhelming happiness, nervousness and excitement about standing amongst the musical legends she has long admired.

“Hi everybody, my name is Karol G. I am from Medellín, Colombia. This is my first time at the Grammys, and this is my first time holding my own Grammy,” said Karol during her acceptance speech. “I’m super happy, I’m super nervous, I’m super excited to be in front of so many legends that I admire and respect. This is such a beautiful thing. My album has given me the best memories in my life, my whole life!

“My fans that came and enjoyed my album, and got motivation and inspiration with me, and heal with me. Thank you so much, I promise to give you my best, always, and I hope this is the first of many. So thank you everybody,” she said before shouting out Tainy and Rauw Alejandro, who were up against her in the category.

Regarded as one of this generation’s most influential figures in Latin music, Karol G’s Grammy testifies her profound impact on the music industry. Beyond her numerous awards, she has been honored with the Rulebreaker Award at the Billboard Women in Music and the Spirit of Hope Award at the Billboard Latin Music Awards. She has also broken five Guinness World Records.

Isabela Raygoza

Billboard