The Latin Grammys nominations dropped yesterday for 2026, and while the usual suspects are celebrating, a major controversy is brewing that hits right at the heart of our scene. Prince Royce, the undisputed “Prince of Bachata,” didn’t mince words after his powerhouse collaboration with Romeo Santos, Better Late Than Never, was completely shut out. But his real beef, as reported by Billboard Latin, is far bigger than just one album.
Royce called out the Latin Recording Academy for a glaring omission in the Best Merengue/Bachata Album category: not a single nominated project is a true bachata album. He stated, “if bachata is in the name of the category, where is the representation of bachata?” This isn't just a minor oversight; it's a slap in the face to a genre that has fought tooth and nail for global recognition, a genre that thrives on our dancefloors from the Bronx to Long Island and beyond.
Bachata's Unseen Influence
Let's be real: Better Late Than Never wasn't just another album. It was a cultural moment, a surprise drop from two titans that dominated charts and, more importantly, dominated our speakers. We saw DJs across the board immediately testing tracks, and the crowd reaction was undeniable. This was pure, unadulterated bachata excellence that resonated with millions. For an institution claiming to represent Latin music to completely ignore such a monumental release, and then fill the genre’s only dedicated category with projects that are barely 15% bachata, is a major disconnect.
Manuel Abud, CEO of the Latin Recording Academy, deflected by saying it’s up to the membership. But is it really? When the very name of a category promises representation and delivers none, it makes you question the entire process. It’s not about chart numbers versus artistic merit; it’s about acknowledging the vibrant, living culture that drives these genres.
The LatinMixx Take
This isn't just Prince Royce complaining about a snub; it's a crucial conversation about respect and authenticity in our industry. For us, the DJs, producers, and selectors on the ground, this is a reminder of where the real power lies: with the music and the people who play and consume it. We don't need an awards show to validate what we already know is fire. We test the tracks, we feel the crowd, we see the impact. Bachata, from its roots to its modern evolution, continues to be a driving force, and no institutional oversight will diminish its global reach or its undeniable presence in our sets. Keep spinning that bachata loud and proud, because the real awards are the packed dancefloors and the cultural impact we create every single night.