Rosalía to Receive Hall of Fame Award, U2 Dedicates Song; Anthony Ramos in NYC

Rosalía has reason to celebrate twice over: not only is she set to receive the prestigious Hall of Fame Award at the 2026 Billboard Latin Music Awards, a recognition of her career and the global impact of her music, but she also received an unexpected dedication from the legendary band U2. The Spanish artist shared her astonishment in a recent television interview, while other talents like Anthony Ramos are preparing their own returns to the stage with intimate events in New York, marking an active week in the Latin music world.

A Year of Milestones and Accolades for Rosalía

Rosalía’s career continues its remarkable trajectory, solidifying her as one of the most influential figures in global music. This past year has been filled with significant milestones. Last November, her acclaimed album “LUX” not only captivated critics but also debuted at number one on five different Billboard charts, showcasing its broad appeal. Adding to this, she was honored as Woman of the Year at the 2026 Billboard Latin Women in Music event, an accolade that underscores her power and relevance in the industry, as Billboard reported. Now, the Spanish superstar will add another major recognition by receiving the coveted Hall of Fame Award at the upcoming Billboard Latin Music Awards, a distinction that places her among music’s greatest legends.

U2's Unexpected Dedication and a Creative Suggestion

Perhaps the moment that left her most speechless and highlights the significance of her art was U2's dedication. On the popular “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on October 7, Rosalía recounted her genuine surprise and emotion upon learning that the iconic Irish band had dedicated the song “The Mirror Maker (Rosalía)” to her on their upcoming album, “Carnaval De Luz.” With a mix of disbelief and admiration, the artist reverently repeated the name of Bono, the band's charismatic frontman, as if still processing the news.

Although she doesn't know Bono personally, Rosalía revealed that he messaged her to consult about some words he wanted to use for the song's lyrics. She recalled one particular word, “marmolay,” which struck her as strange and unfamiliar. After researching it and finding it didn't exist in standard Spanish, she gave Bono a bold piece of advice: “Feel free to invent your own language.” The artist confessed that the dedication felt “insane” and “mind-blowing,” especially because she, like many, grew up listening to U2’s unforgettable songs. She even burst into a snippet of the band's 1987 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit “With Or Without You” for the audience and Fallon, demonstrating the profound impact U2’s music had on her formative years.

During her lively appearance on the show, Rosalía also discussed her upcoming gig on “Saturday Night Live,” one of the most important stages in American television. Additionally, she shared an amusing personal anecdote: she had wanted to visit the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem one Sunday, prepared meticulously, choosing her outfit and “church heels,” but upon arrival, a man at the door told her the church was full and she couldn't get in. “God said ‘no,’ but my outfit said ‘yes,’” she quipped about her experience, which ended up with a shopping spree, an unexpected turn for her Sunday plan.

Anthony Ramos: From Broadway to "Noches de Familia" at an Iconic Club

While Rosalía celebrates her global achievements, another Latin talent is gearing up to connect closely with his fans in a more intimate setting. Actor, singer, and producer Anthony Ramos, a figure known for his versatility, from his acclaimed work in Broadway musicals like “Hamilton” and “In the Heights” to his prominent roles in film and television, will bring his energy to the Nublu stage in New York with his “Noches de Familia” concert series. This event, exclusively announced by Billboard, will offer fans three unique opportunities to see him live, on consecutive Wednesdays: November 25, December 2, and December 9.

Ramos, who was born and raised in Brooklyn and proudly carries his Puerto Rican roots, is a well-rounded artist who has proven his worth on multiple fronts. In addition to his successful acting career, which includes productions like FX’s “The Beauty,” Kathryn Bigelow’s Netflix film “A House of Dynamite,” and Universal’s blockbuster “Twisters,” he is a Grammy-winning recording artist. He has released tracks that reflect his musical heritage, such as “New York City” and “I Was the One,” produced by legendary salsa artist Sergio George, as well as “Vicariously” and “Se Fue,” which highlight his deep connection to Latin music.

His latest single, “Wasn’t Even Lookin’,” was released on September 25 via Ramos Music/The Orchard, and was also produced by Sergio George. This track continues his unique style of English-language homage to the rhythms and culture of salsa music, always infused with his distinctive personal touch. Ramos, who was crowned King of the 69th National Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York, is also set to take on a dual role in an ambitious project: producing and starring in a new animated “Bob the Builder” feature film alongside Mattel Films and Jennifer Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions, showcasing his continuous growth as an artist and producer.

Nublu, the chosen venue for his concerts, is no ordinary space. It is an iconic live music club in Manhattan’s vibrant East Village, founded in 2002. Known for its intimate atmosphere and for being a hub for both emerging talents and established artists, it provides the perfect setting for Ramos to share his music in a personal and close way.

Why it matters

These recent announcements reflect the vitality, dynamism, and diversity of Latin music on the global stage and in the United States. From Rosalía’s career recognition for her cultural impact with a Hall of Fame Award and the unexpected musical blessing from an influential band like U2, to Anthony Ramos’s intimate and multifaceted offering for his fans, we see how Latin artists continue to make noise, break artistic barriers, and share their rich culture with the world. Their achievements not only celebrate individual talent but also inspire new generations of creators, solidifying the Latin presence in the entertainment industry.