Rubén Blades Reflects on His Legacy at Latin Music Week: ‘What I Wrote Was Honest & I Still Feel That Way’

Rubén Blades reflected on his songwriting, influence and career during an interview at Latin Music Week, saying his lyrics were honest and still reflect how he feels. His approach helped broaden salsa beyond familiar romantic themes, using stories about everyday life and social issues, and shaped the music listened to by generations across Latin America and the United States.

The 78-year-old Panamanian artist continues to tour and act, with roles in films including Jonás Cuarón’s *Campeón Gabacho* and René Pérez’s upcoming *Porto Rico*, which features Bad Bunny. Blades also recalled a cordial final meeting with former collaborator Willie Colón in 2023, and is due to receive the Billboard Icon Award on 22 October 2026. His career spans more than five decades, and he has performed shows lasting five and a half hours.