The Colombian star was honored with the International Artist Award of Excellence following her set

May 25, 2026

Karol G made the most of her first-ever performance at the American Music Awards. The Colombian superstar took the stage to deliver “Ivonny Bonita” from Tropicoqueta, plus received the special International Artist Award of Excellence and Best Latin Album for Tropicoqueta.

Karol G looked ethereal as she performed on a circular stage, veiled by a sheer curtain. As she sang “Ivonny Bonita,” she utilized the drapery and small setup with titillating choreography, keeping the audience captivated with complex floorwork and her vocals.

Immediately following her set, John Legend presented the superstar with the International Artist Award of Excellence for her outsized global impact on music and culture at large. The accolade was last received by Whitney Houston in 2009. “Like millions of fans everywhere, I think the world of Karol G,” Legend remarked. “There are artists who make hits, and then there are artists who make history.”

Karol riffed that she was honored to receive the accolade from Legend because this is a “legend moment in my career.” She also noted how her music gave her life new purpose. “The most important thing in my life is purpose. I found purpose through my music,” she told the audience. “I’m just happy that I can perform … and I can say things in my songs and become a voice for a lot of people, a healing place, a safe place.”

She continued: “I just think that my life is meaningful because of my music, and to help others through it.” Legend then returned to the stage to surprise Karol by revealing she also received the AMA for Best Latin Album, to her delight.

“Ivonny Bonita” was produced by Pharrell, and the singer has called it “probably the most important song on Tropicoqueta.” “The song truly expresses what I would like women to feel about themselves when they listen to each song on the album,” Karol told Rolling Stone last year. “I want them to feel confident.”

“Karol G has redefined what it means to be a global artist. Through her authenticity, groundbreaking achievements, and powerful connection with fans around the world, she has helped bring Latin music to unprecedented heights,” executive producers Barry Adelman, EVP, Television, and Alexi Mazareas, SVP, Programming & Development, Dick Clark Productions said in a statement about the International Artist Award of Excellence.

The Colombian superstar is a nine-time American Music Awards nominee and is being recognized for her Tropicoqueta album at this year’s ceremony. Besides her win for Best Latin Album, she’s also nominated in two categories, including Best Latin Song for “Latina Foreva” and Best Female Latin Artist.

Karol G’s dominance at the American Music Awards coincides with an exciting time for the superstar. In April, she made history with her headlining Coachella performance, becoming the first Latina to do so. She subsequently announced the Viajando Por El Mundo Tropitour, a global stadium trek that kicks off this summer.