GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – Gainesville is set to celebrate Cuban American music legend Willy Chirino as Mayor Harvey Ward presents him with a Key to the City on Saturday, Nov. 2, in recognition of his five-decade-long contributions to music and his impact in raising Gainesville’s profile as an international music destination. The presentation will take place at 8 p.m. at Bo Diddley Plaza, where the mayor will also proclaim Nov. 2 as “Willy Chirino Day.”
Following the Key to the City ceremony, Chirino, known for his distinctive salsa style, will perform live for the first time in Gainesville as part of the Tu Fiesta Radio Festival 2024. His appearance is anticipated to draw fans from across the region, eager to see the Grammy-winning artist perform on such a significant night.
Chirino’s career includes a Grammy win in 2006 for his album Son del Alma, which took home the award for Best Salsa/Merengue Album. His influence in Latin music was further acknowledged in 2014, when he received the Latin GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Recording Academy®, honoring his lasting impact on the genre.
In addition to his musical achievements, the city notes that Chirino is a dedicated philanthropist and founder of the Willy Chirino Foundation, a nonprofit that supports underprivileged children and families in Latin America and South Florida. His foundation has been recognized for its significant contributions to the well-being of communities in need.
For more information about the event, residents can contact Gainesville city officials.