‘Spanish-dominated’ Latin Grammys’ move to Seville provokes controversy

The prestigious awards are being held in Europe for the first time. But does this landmark moment for Spain' neglect the musicians at the forefront of Latin music innovation?

Hordes of fans wait anxiously along fenced barriers clutching their phones, itching to catch a shot of some of the world's most famous musicians. Some scream in excitement as cars with blacked-out windows roll up outside the glitzy venues, eagerly anticipating the arrival of artists such as Shakira, Maluma, Camilo and Karol G in the run up to the ceremony on Thursday night (16 November). This is the Latin Grammys, the most prominent event recognising artists in the Latin music world - but this year, it's far from its usual lavish Las Vegas home. Instead, the awards are taking place in the Spanish city of Seville, the first time outside the United States in its 24-year history.

The move is the result of a three-year sponsorship deal with Andalucia's regional government, which has allocated 22,748,000 to the ceremony and its satellite concerts. The president of the regional government, Juan Manuel Moreno, has said that the Latin Grammys in Seville presents a landmark moment for Spain, and for Europe".