Photos: Diego Cadavid
For our Hispanic Heritage Edition, we selected Juanes because his remarkable journey represents far more than musical success. He embodies the pride, creativity, resilience and social conscience of the Hispanic community, carrying Colombia’s sounds to global audiences while remaining deeply rooted in his origins.
Born in Medellín, Juanes transformed Spanish-language rock. By blending rock and pop with traditional Colombian rhythms, he created an unmistakably contemporary yet culturally grounded sound. His music never required abandoning his language or identity. Songs like “A Dios Le Pido” and “La Camisa Negra” proved Spanish-language music could reach international heights. “La Camisa Negra” reached No. 1 in 10 countries.
He opened historically closed doors for Spanish-language artists. He became the first to deliver entirely Spanish performances on prominent American platforms, including Today Show Plaza and major late-night television. He presented the first Spanish-language rock performance at the GRAMMY® Awards. These appearances expanded Hispanic culture’s visibility to mainstream audiences and created opportunities for artists who followed.
With over 20 billion career streams, 17 No. 1 singles and more than 30 Top 10 Billboard hits, Juanes stands as one of the most important Latin artists of his era. He received 29 GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Awards. TIME recognized him as the only Latin rock artist among its 100 most influential people worldwide. Billboard named him the top Latin rock and pop artist of the 21st century.
Yet his legacy transcends awards. Juanes has used his platform to transform vulnerable communities. His Fundación Mi Sangre, celebrating its 20th anniversary, works with young people affected by violence in Colombia, offering psychosocial support, arts education and cultural programs that help them see themselves as active agents of change. It has impacted thousands, particularly in marginalized communities.
Beyond his foundation, Juanes actively promotes Latin American musical heritage. He hosts benefit concerts for social causes, participates in peace initiatives throughout Latin America, and consistently advocates for Latin musicians’ rights on international stages.
His performances at Coachella, Lollapalooza and international festivals fulfill a cultural mission: proving Latin music deserves visibility on the world’s largest platforms.
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