Karol G turned the spotlight into a full-circle moment at the 2026 American Music Awards in Las Vegas, performing “Ivonny Bonita,” accepting the International Artist Award of Excellence, and then reacting in shock when John Legend presented her with Best Latin
Karol G had the kind of AMAs night that makes you look twice—because it wasn’t just about one win or one performance. It was the momentum: music first, then an award, then another moment that caught her completely off guard.
The 35-year-old Latin music superstar performed live at the 2026 American Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Monday, May 25, in Las Vegas. She kicked off her night with “Ivonny Bonita,” a song featured on her album Tropicoqueta.
Later in the show, Karol G accepted the International Artist Award of Excellence. The honor is described as an award that recognizes artists whose popularity and impact cross national boundaries, and it’s only given when there is a deserving recipient worthy of recognition for their accomplishments.
The category’s past recipients include Michael Jackson in 1993. Rod Stewart in 1994. Led Zeppelin in 1995. Bee Gees in 1997. Aerosmith in 2001. Beyonce in 2007. and Whitney Houston in 2009. Speaking on stage. Karol G said. “I want to say. more than anything. this career has given me the most important thing in my life: purpose. I can say things in my songs that become a voice for a lot of people. a healing place. a safe place. I think my life is meaningful because of my music.”.
That emotional high didn’t last long—because the show kept surprising her. Karol G was also presented with the award for Best Latin Album for Tropicoqueta. When presenter John Legend gave her the win, she dropped to the floor in shock.
The AMAs are airing live on CBS. The show is hosted by Queen Latifah, who is returning as a host after more than 30 years since she previously hosted. The nominations list is led by Taylor Swift with 8 nods.
Karol G AMAs 2026 American Music Awards MGM Grand Garden Arena Tropicoqueta Ivonny Bonita International Artist Award of Excellence John Legend Best Latin Album Queen Latifah Las Vegas CBS