FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION
Best Latin Song
“American Sueño” ft Nelson Gonzalez
Written and Arranged by Julian Silva
LA EXCELENCIA is an award-winning salsa band from New York City, renowned for blending the raw, rebellious spirit of ’70s-era salsa with a bold, contemporary, and unapologetic sound. Founded in 2005 by composer and producer Julian Silva, the band emerged as a powerful force in modern Latin music, earning early acclaim with their socially conscious debut album, Salsa Con Conciencia (2006). Driven by explosive live performances, hard-hitting arrangements, and their signature salsa dura sound, LA EXCELENCIA quickly built a devoted international following. Their acclaimed discography includes Mi Tumbao Social (2009), Ecos Del Barrio (2012), and Machete (2020), cementing their reputation as one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary salsa.
Beyond the stage, LA EXCELENCIA’s music has reached audiences across film, television, and popular media, with placements and collaborations spanning MTV, A&E, Lifetime, and other major platforms. The band has earned recognition from prominent publications, including The New York Times, and reached another career milestone in 2024 with a celebrated performance at the iconic Carnegie Hall, further solidifying their standing as one of the most dynamic and influential salsa ensembles of their generation.
As LA EXCELENCIA celebrates two decades of pushing salsa forward, the band continues to build momentum and embrace its next chapter. In 2026, they have already released two new singles, setting the tone for an exciting year that honors their legacy while looking firmly toward the future. The band is preparing to close out the year on a high note with the highly anticipated release of their 20th Anniversary Album in early December, produced in collaboration with multi-Grammy Award-winning producer Mr. Sonic. This milestone release celebrates 20 years of uncompromising music, cultural pride, and dedication to the evolution of salsa.
With new music on the horizon and an enduring commitment to electrifying audiences around the world, LA EXCELENCIA remains driven by the same spirit that launched the band in 2005: honoring salsa’s roots, challenging conventions, and keeping the sound alive for generations to come. Two decades in, their mission remains as powerful as ever—to keep salsa dura relevant, fearless, and moving forward.
Band members: Julian Silva (Owner/Timbales), Willy Rodriquez (Piano), Carlos Mena (Bass), Nerio Matheus (Congas), Nestor Villar (Bongo), Anthony DeLeon (Trombone), Mike Engstrom (Trombone), Cris Mora (Trumpet), Junior Ortega (Trumpet), Santy Monsalve (Lead Vocals), Danny Enrique (Lead Vocals), Kamilo Kratc (Sound Engineer)
