Phoenix 24
Two music legends celebrate reggaeton’s extraordinary global journey.
LAS VEGAS, Nevada. Janet Jackson delivered one of the most memorable moments of the 2026 Latin Grammy Awards when she unexpectedly appeared onstage to honor Puerto Rican superstar Daddy Yankee, recognizing his influence on contemporary Latin music and his role in transforming reggaeton into a global cultural phenomenon.
The surprise unfolded on November 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, where Jackson presented the Latin Recording Academy’s Person of the Year recognition to the artist born Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez. Daddy Yankee appeared visibly moved as the American singer celebrated his nearly three decades of musical innovation.
Jackson emphasized the determination required to transform an emerging musical movement into an internationally recognized genre. She praised Daddy Yankee for opening opportunities for younger Latin artists and acknowledged the influence his recordings have had across generations.
Their relationship extends beyond mutual admiration. In 2018, the musicians collaborated on Jackson’s single “Made for Now,” combining pop, dance music and Caribbean influences.
During his acceptance speech, Daddy Yankee expressed gratitude for Jackson’s presence, describing her as an important inspiration throughout his career. He also reflected on reggaeton’s beginnings in Puerto Rico, when underground recordings circulated through neighborhood networks and the genre faced social prejudice and institutional resistance.
What began as a largely marginalized musical expression eventually became one of the most commercially influential forces in international entertainment.
Daddy Yankee recalled his childhood ambition to become a professional baseball player before discovering a different path through music. He also thanked his family, fellow artists, producers, dancers and supporters who contributed to his journey.
The ceremony featured a performance celebrating his musical legacy. Wearing a cape displaying the Puerto Rican flag, he appeared alongside Argentine producer Bizarrap before revisiting songs including “Con Calma,” “Dura,” “Rompe” and “Despacito.”
Additional appearances by Bad Gyal, Feid and Indian singer Diljit Dosanjh highlighted the international reach of his collaborations. The performance concluded with “Gasolina,” the 2004 recording that helped introduce reggaeton to mainstream audiences around the world.
The recognition followed a separate Person of the Year tribute gala organized by the Latin Recording Academy on November 11.
Beyond the celebration, Jackson’s appearance represented a meeting between two influential musical traditions. Her career helped shape contemporary pop and rhythm and blues, while Daddy Yankee contributed to bringing Puerto Rican urban music into the international mainstream.
Their shared moment illustrated how musical innovation can cross linguistic, cultural and geographical boundaries, creating opportunities for successive generations of performers.
Behind Every Achievement, a Deeper Story.