Juanes sets record in Latin Grammys

Colombian rocker Juanes ruled the Latin Grammys on Thursday, sweeping awards in five categories -- including record of the year and album of the year -- and setting a record for total wins.

Juanes’ joy-filled love song “Me Enamora” won record of the year, song of the year and best short-form music video. He also took trophies for the year’s best album and best male pop vocal album for “La Vida . . . Es Un Ratico.”

After taking the top honor and final trophy, Juanes spoke to U.S. Latinos: “You have chosen the right president. Congratulations. It is time to change” -- the last line being the title of his latest song.

The awards bring his total Latin Grammy wins to 17, breaking Alejandro Sanz’s record of 14.

“This is incredible. A million thanks, truly,” Juanes said. “I have to thank my father, who is in heaven, God, my children. Since I was very young, my family taught me to listen to Latin American music. . . . They have all been an influence.”

The Medellin-born musician, who has become a voice for social causes, opened the live broadcast with an emotional duet with soul singer John Legend. The two performed “If You Are Out There,” a new collaboration scheduled to be released next week.

Puerto Rican singer Kany Garcia walked away with best new artist honors and best female pop vocal album for “Cualquier Dia.”

Mexican alternative rock group Cafe Tacuba picked up awards for rock song of the year for “Esta Vez” and alternative song of the year for “Volver a Comenzar.”

Latin pop diva Gloria Estefan, who was honored with the 2008 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year award Wednesday night, also scooped up awards for best traditional tropical album for “90 Millas” and best tropical song.

“The only thing left for me to do is to sing in a free Cuba,” said Estefan.