The list of nominees for the 27th Annual Latin Grammy Awards, released by the Latin Recording Academy on Wednesday, includes eight Cuban artists. The awards ceremony will take place on November 12, 2026, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be broadcast live on Univision.
Cuban talent is recognized across a wide array of categories, including Best Traditional Tropical Album, Best Contemporary Tropical Album, Best Tropical Song, Latin Jazz, Instrumental Music, and Classical Composition.
Cuban Legends and Rising Stars
Ninety-five-year-old Omara Portuondo returns to the spotlight, competing once more for Best Traditional Tropical Album with "Eternally Omara," proving that the iconic voice of Buena Vista Social Club remains influential. Joining her in this category are fellow Cubans Dayhan Díaz, with "Something New from Yesterday," and Leoni Torres, with "Anyone Can Fall in Love." Other nominees include Los Tri-O and Gilberto Santa Rosa.
Diverse Cuban Representation
Pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba boasts dual nominations: Best Latin Jazz/Jazz Album for "Gonzalo Plays Pino" and Best Instrumental Album with "A Tribute To Benny Moré And Nat King Cole," a project by the Gonzalo Rubalcaba Trio. In this latter category, he shares the stage with Joey Calveiro and Cuban saxophonist Yainer Horta, marking their presence among this year's nominees.
Noteworthy Nominations
Adding to the Cuban representation, Yeisy Rojas is in the running for Best Tropical Song with "Latino," while composer Tania León competes for Best Classical Work/Composition with "Raíces (Origins) - Live." Meanwhile, singer-songwriter Alex Cuba aims for the Best Contemporary Tropical Album award with "Índole."
Special Honors and Historical Success
Beyond the competitive categories, Francisco "Pancho" Céspedes will be honored with the 2026 Award for Musical Excellence, a special recognition announced by the Academy in late June. He will receive this accolade on November 9 during Latin Grammy Week in Las Vegas, alongside Alaska, Omar Alfanno, Lila Downs, Daniela Mercury, and Chichí Peralta. Born in Santa Clara, Céspedes is acknowledged as one of the greats of his generation.
Cuba's recent history at the Latin Grammys is strong: Omara Portuondo took home the 2023 Latin Grammy for Best Traditional Tropical Album with "Vida," and in previous editions, artists like Gloria Estefan and Chucho Valdés have also shone brightly. The ceremony on November 12 will reveal how many of these eight Cuban nominees will claim the coveted golden gramophone.
Latin Grammy 2026 Cuban Nominees: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Omara Portuondo?
Omara Portuondo is a legendary Cuban singer known for her work with Buena Vista Social Club. At 95, she continues to be a prominent figure in music.
What categories have Cuban artists been nominated in for the Latin Grammy 2026?
Cuban artists have been nominated in categories such as Best Traditional Tropical Album, Best Contemporary Tropical Album, Best Tropical Song, Latin Jazz, Instrumental Music, and Classical Composition.
When will the 2026 Latin Grammy Awards take place?
The 2026 Latin Grammy Awards will be held on November 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.