Inside the 2025 Person of the Year Gala Honoring Raphael: ‘I Hope to Return for Many More Years’

Glitz and glam took over the Mandalay Convention Center in Las Vegas on Wednesday (Nov. 12), where industry leaders and Latin music stars alike gathered for a night of celebration at The Latin Recording Academy’s 2025 Person of the Year gala honoring Raphael. 

“We are celebrating a living legend of Latin music,” Manuel Abud, CEO of The Latin Recording Academy, said to attendees before inviting the 82-year-old Spanish singer-songwriter to the stage. “Let’s welcome an iconic artist who is undoubtedly a legend in Spanish-language music. He created a personal style that has transcended generations and borders. Today, we will be telling your story through your music. We’ve invited friends and colleagues, but also artists from the new generation who recognize your career.” 

The invite-only gala that finished around midnight included a three-course dinner, a two-hour long tribute to Raphael, and a five-minute video that showcased Raphael’s more than 65 years in music: “I see colleagues of mine retiring. I’m not going to retire,” he said in one of the clips. “I still have many countries to visit, and as long as my voice holds up, I’ll be singing.”

At 9:30 p.m., Enrique Bunbury opened the show with a soft rock version of Raphael’s 1966 classic “Yo Soy Aquel.” He was then joined by Carín León for some jaw-dropping harmonies during a performance of “Ahora.” León then stayed to perform 1988’s “Toco Madera.” Later in the evening, Fito Paez and Rozalen performed “Enséñame a Olvidarte”; Rozalen brought out Susana Baca for a “Chabacano, Limeña” duet; and Pepe Aguilar was joined by Myriam Hernandez for a sweet rendition of “Procuro Olvidarte.”  

Café Quijano, Gaby Moreno, Elena Rose, Ivan Cornejo, Jesse & Joy, Pablo López, Aitana, Kiki Morente, Ángeles Toledano, Vanessa Martín, Kany García, and Carlos Rivera, were among the many artists who also honored El Divo de Linares with their captivating vocals. “I would clone you,” García told him. “You are a magical human being. Long live Raphael, this is your night!”  

The highlight of the night, however, was when David Bisbal performed the timeless 1980s ballad “Como Yo Te Amo.” At one point in the powerful performance, Bisbal walked off stage and sat across Raphael at the dinner table, where he was joined by his loved ones. Bisbal passionately sang to him as a teary-eyed Raphael smiled and sang along. 

“The truth is, Raphael, we’re friends, and thank you for leaving a legacy of discipline, effort, and sacrifice… I don’t know how many times you sang while sick,” Bisbal said to him. “That’s the legacy you’ve left for all artists. You can count on me to always carry your word. I promise you.” 

The evening wrapped up with the rhythmic 1992 tune “Escándalo” performed by tropical stars Willy Chirino (who composed the song for Raphael’s Ave Fénix album), Eddy Herrera, and Victor Manuelle. 

Raphael — who was diagnosed last year with primary brain lymphoma — then briefly took the stage to remind his family, friends, and colleagues in the room: “I hope to return for many more years.”