Marco Antonio Solis speaks onstage at the 2011 Latin GRAMMYs
Photo: John Shearer/WireImage
Marco Antonio Solís Announced As The 2022 Latin Recording Academy Person Of The Year
The Latin Recording Academy has announced Marco Antonio Solís as the 2022 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year.
Solís, a five-time Latin GRAMMY winner and six-time GRAMMY nominee, composer, arranger, producer, musician, and artistic director, will be honored for his extensive career, which spans more than four decades, as a multifaceted performer and one of Mexico's most successful artists of all time. His dedication to his musical roots has made him a true ambassador of Latin music around the world, endearing him to the legions of fans who have been moved by his songs. Solís is one of the most respected musicians of his generation — generous with his talents by composing and producing for other performers — as well as an ardent supporter of up-and-coming talent.
"Marco Antonio Solís is a living legend and one of the most emblematic figures in Latin music," Latin Recording Academy CEO Manuel Abud said. "He continues to break down generational barriers through his poignant lyrics, which move millions of people and inspire greater acceptance and understanding. For this we are honored to bestow him with the 2022 Latin Academy Person of the Year distinction."
"I am very moved and grateful to The Latin Recording Academy for this special distinction that means so much to me professionally and personally," Solís said. "I would like to share this sentiment with everyone who has inspired me, and with those who I may have inspired as well to be able to occupy this place that the public has made me deserving of through this blessing called music. Thank you to everyone who has been witnesses to my journey, from my beginnings to the present day, and who are in some way also part of this important achievement. Thank you to The Latin Academy for undertaking the task of following my career and considering me among the greats that have left a mark in the world of music. Thank you to my family for the motivation that they ignite in me to always continue to excel, and thank you to the support of my loyal audiences for making this reality possible, which fills my heart with pride, love and joy. Thank you to God the Father for always being present within me."
"El Buki" was born in Ario de Rosales, Michoacán, Mexico, and his love of music was sparked at an early age when he would watch his father sing and play the guitar. He began performing with his cousin, Joel Solís, as Dueto Solís, and got his big break in the mid-1970s when they formed Los Bukis, which would establish Marco Antonio Solís as a unique singer/songwriter within the group. During the next two decades, Solís also became known within the industry for his work as a composer, arranger and producer, collaborating with prominent artists such as Rocío Dúrcal, Raphael and Lucero.
In 1996, Solís launched his solo career, releasing more than 16 albums since then, which have broken sales records and reached Top 10 lists in Latin America, the United States and Spain, spanning successful world tours with Marc Anthony, Laura Pausini and Alejandro Fernández, among others. Solís is a prolific performer who delights audiences on stage and inspires his peers. His musical legacy transcends genres and continues to influence other musicians; many of his popular songs have been performed by more than 120 artists including Juan Luis Guerra, Maná, Mon Laferte and Luis Fonsi.
Beyond the stage, his hit song "Si No Te Hubieras Ido" was featured on the soundtrack to the Oscar-nominated film Y tu mamá también, and he voiced the character of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Spanish-language version of the Disney/Pixar film Coco. His business endeavors have also generated new jobs and growth for thousands of families. Solís is currently the subject of a career-spanning exhibit, Y Para Siempre… Marco Antonio Solís, at the GRAMMY Museum's permanent Latin Music Gallery.
Solís will be celebrated at a special, star-studded gala featuring a heartfelt tribute concert, including renditions of his renowned repertoire performed by an impressive array of notable artists and friends. Details of the coveted event and the 2022 Latin GRAMMYs, officially known as the 23rd Latin GRAMMY Awards, will be announced at a later date.
The Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year recognizes musicians of Ibero-American heritage and honors their artistic achievements in the Latin music industry as well as their humanitarian efforts.
The past honorees are Rubén Blades (2021), Juanes (2019), Maná (2018), Alejandro Sanz (2017), Marc Anthony (2016), Roberto Carlos (2015), Joan Manuel Serrat (2014), Miguel Bosé (2013), Caetano Veloso (2012), Shakira (2011), Plácido Domingo (2010), Juan Gabriel (2009), Gloria Estefan (2008), Juan Luis Guerra (2007), Ricky Martin (2006), José José (2005), Carlos Santana (2004), Gilberto Gil (2003), Vicente Fernández (2002), Julio Iglesias (2001), and Emilio Estefan (2000).
Net proceeds from the Latin Academy Person of the Year gala will go toward the charitable work of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation.
