Karol G calls music her 'purpose' following International Artist Award of Excellence
The singer received the International Artist Award of Excellence at the 2026 American Music Awards
Singer Karol G has reflected on her journey in music, saying she “found purpose” through her career after receiving a major honour at the 2026 American Music Awards in Las Vegas.
The 35-year-old star was presented with the International Artist Award of Excellence at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Monday, May 25, where she delivered an emotional acceptance speech highlighting the impact of music on her life and identity.
Taking the stage after being presented the award by John Legend, Karol expressed gratitude for the recognition and described the moment as a defining milestone in her career.
“This is going to be a legend moment in my career, for sure,” she said. “I feel very, very grateful. First of all, thank you, God.”
She went on to explain that music has given her a deeper sense of purpose, saying it has allowed her to connect with audiences in a meaningful way.
“This career has given me the most important thing in my life: purpose,” she said. “I found purpose through my music. I’m just happy that I can perform a song, and I can say things in my songs that become a voice for a lot of people.”
Karol added that she views her music as a “healing place” and “safe space” for fans around the world, emphasizing the emotional responsibility she feels as an artist.
The singer also closed her speech with a message of appreciation to her global fanbase in Spanish.
At the same ceremony, Karol also picked up the Best Latin Album award for Tropicoqueta, further cementing her success at the event.
Her AMAs appearance comes after a landmark year in her career, including becoming the first Latina woman to headline Coachella in April.
During her Coachella performance, Karol reflected on her journey from Medellín, Colombia, describing the moment as historic but also overdue representation for the Latino community.
“I am Carolina from Medellín, Colombia,” she told the audience. “Today I am the first Latina woman to headline Coachella.”
