Ricky Martin brought the house down at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, delivering a high-energy performance before being honored with the first-ever Latin Icon Award.
The Puerto Rican superstar, whose four-decade career has helped catapult Latin music into the global mainstream, performed a medley of hits that began with his career-defining smash, Livin’ La Vida Loca. Dancing through the audience and across the stage, Martin’s charisma and passion reminded fans why he remains one of the most electrifying performers in the world.
Honoring a Trailblazer
The Latin Icon Award recognizes Martin’s enduring impact on music and culture. Over the years, he has sold more than 70 million albums worldwide, earned countless awards, and built a legacy that spans not only music but also acting and humanitarian work.
Introducing Martin, Colombian reggaetón star J Balvin praised the trailblazer’s role in paving the way for today’s Latin artists:
“Ricky Martin didn’t just set the stage for the Latin music takeover; he had to build it from the ground up in a time where Latin music was almost never played on mainstream radio,” Balvin said. “He broke barriers with massive hit songs and an unmistakable sound, and he inspired me and so many Latino performers.”
A Full-Circle Moment
Martin was presented with the award by Jessica Simpson, who shared a personal memory from her early career: she was the opening act on Martin’s Livin’ La Vida Loca tour in late 1999 and early 2000.
Accepting the honor, Martin reflected on his journey and his hopes for the future of music:
“We just want to unite countries. We just want to break boundaries and we just want to keep music alive,” he told the cheering crowd.
He also dedicated the award to his children, saying, “Everything I do, I do it with you in my mind and in my heart.”
A Historic First
The Latin Icon Award marks the beginning of a new tradition at the VMAs, one that acknowledges the global influence of Latin music and culture. Martin, often called the “King of Latin Pop,” proved once again why his music and presence continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
With his powerful performance and heartfelt speech, Ricky Martin not only celebrated his past achievements but also set the tone for the future of Latin music on the world stage.
