“As an outgrowth of the terrible and tragic recent natural disasters affecting Mexico, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Houston, and Florida, the homes to many Hispanic communities, The Latin Recording Academy® is postponing the announcement for the 18th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards® nominations announcement to a later date. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by these catastrophic events and ones that may come,” Latin Recording Academy president and CEO Gabriel Abaroa said in a statement on Tuesday.
The powerful quake reverberated all the way to Mexico City and by 7:30 p.m. local time government officials were already reporting at least 116 people dead and at least 27 buildings collapsed in the capital, which is 75 miles from the epicenter.
Artist reaction to the quake in social media was swift.
“Mexico doesn’t deserve this punishment,” tweeted Miguel Bosé, a Spaniard who considers Mexico his second home. That tweet ws followed by concrete instructions on what to do in case of an emergency.
México no se merece tanto castigo. No puedo pensar. Sólo siento angustia. Todo mi consuelo a las familias afectadas. No me lo puedo creer.
Likewise, Marco Antonio Solís also sent several tweets in quick succession, offering support but also concrete advice.
Ironically, many of the artists tweeting had performed as part of Mexican Independence Celebrations in Las Vegas just two days before, during El Grito weekend Sept. 15 and 16.
Les comparto los números de emergencia
:
Cruz Roja 065
Emergencias 911
Bomberos 068
Policía 060#FuerzaMéxico
Mexican icon Vicente Fernandez also tweeted out a message asking for mutual cooperation in the midst of the crisis.
Los mexicanos nos ayudamos. Amigos, sigan indicaciones y tomen sus medidas. Mis oraciones para ustedes y sus familias. #Sismo #FuerzaMéxico
The outcry went well beyond Mexico's borders, as Mexico is a key destination for virtually all Latin acts. Enrique Iglesias, who launched his career there, tweeted a heart emblazoned with the Mexican flag.
The Mexico earthquake comes at the same time Puerto Rico, another musical hotbed, braces for the arrival of category 5 Hurricane Maria. It’s not a good week for the Latin world.
