Thursday (Dec. 15), Miguel will be the first artist canonized by the DeLeón 100, a curated list of music industry trailblazers identified by Sean “Diddy” Combs in partnership with Billboard and DeLeón Tequila.
“The DeLeón 100 is all about recognizing the tastemakers and trailblazers who are bringing music and culture to the next level,” says Combs. “I’m always searching for people who are bold, fearless and doing their part to shape the future. Now, in partnership with Billboard, I will be celebrating and sharing their inspiring stories with the world.”
Miguel is a natural fit for the list: Since breaking out in 2010, the genre-agnostic singer-songwriter has continually pushed boundaries and displayed a unique artistry on each of his three hit albums. Most recently, he released the Rogue Waves EP, featuring five remixes of waves – a track off of his 2015 album, Wildheart – in various genres, including country.
What’s more, in his young career Miguel has already notched noteworthy collaborations with artists such as Mariah Carey and Lenny Kravitz, and won a 2013 Grammy for Best R&B Song (“Adorn”).
Miguel will accept his latest honor Thursday night at a private party in Los Angeles, where he’ll help ring in the introduction of the DeLeón 100 and treat guests to an intimate live performance.
Other artists to be honored at the DeLeón event include Teyana Taylor, Machine Gun Kelly, Dave East, Vic Mensa, Arantza and Clay.
In February, Billboard magazine will release the full roster of DeLeón 100 honorees (in print and online at billboard.com) along with a short documentary film that details Miguel’s career journey and his plans for the future.
“DeLeón Tequila is honored to partner with Billboard on this extraordinary initiative,” says Andrea Sengara, SVP Combs Wine and Spirits. “They are an industry leader and have paved the way for so many emerging talents. The program is designed to recognize people who have the courage to do things in their own way and with the perseverance to reach the next level.”