Emilio Estefan: “Music is What Saved Me”
Featuring Emilio Estefan
When Emilio Estefan emigrated from Cuba in the 1960s—eventually settling in Miami—it wasn’t by choice . . . it was by necessity. Even at a young age, Estefan understood he’d have to work hard for his freedom, for his family’s freedom.
That work came in the form of music. From the moment his uncle gifted him a $77 accordion, Estefan recognized that music would be the key to unlocking his own potential and showcasing the power and invention of Latino culture in America.
Today, as a musician and producer who’s worked with the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Ricky Martin, Estefan refuses to settle.
Recently made a partner in L’Attitude—where he’s connected to an incredible executive network of Latinos—Estefan sees now more than ever, the power we yield as one Latino community that extends far beyond music. One that promotes one flag with one color and centers on pride.
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About Our Guest
Emilio Estefan is a world-renowned music, television, and film producer who has been instrumental in shaping, developing, and directing the careers of his superstar wife, Gloria, as well as Shakira, Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, and Jon Secada among many others. Emilio has achieved incredible success throughout his career, boasting more than 40 years of industry-leading achievements, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and induction into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame just to name a few.
Emilio has served as a member of the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities and has produced a wide array of historical musical events at the White House. In 2009, President Barack Obama tapped him to serve on the committee to create the first National Museum of the American Latino. In 2022, he was tasked by President Biden to produce the inaugural ceremony of The Summit of the Americas. With a resume that includes 19 GRAMMY Awards, Emilio has experimented and pushed the envelope of blending Latin, pop, and world rhythms creating a unique style and personality that has created chart-topping worldwide hits. It is this vision that transcends the music field and spills over into film, television, hotels, and restaurants, among other business endeavors including serving as the Executive Producer of the Tony-Award, nominated smash Broadway musical, On Your Feet!
Most recently, the Library of Congress honored Emilio and Gloria with the distinguished Gershwin Prize for Popular song. His passion and ability to keep alive his Latin roots have made Emilio Estefan’s vision a global brand, and a symbol of credibility and prestige among the World’s Greatest Leaders; a man that through sheer talent, tenacity, and extraordinary vision, has earned his rightful place in history.
