DUBAI: Ricky Martin — the winner of multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy awards, who will perform at Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Nights concert series on Jan. 31 — spoke to Arab News recently about his diverse fan base and the upcoming show.

The Puerto Rican is joining a star-studded lineup of performers in the 2025-26 concert series.

“What I can say is that this show is a celebration of my years in the music world, and it’s designed to help the audience forget their troubles and simply have fun.

“It’s a well-balanced show, there will definitely be moments of high energy, but also intimate ones, because I like to create space for connection,” Martin said in a written response to questions.

Martin’s catalogue of hits includes “Livin’ la Vida Loca,” “The Cup of Life,” “Maria,” “Vente Pa’Ca,” “La Mordidita” and “Vuelve” and he says he is not surprised that his music has garnered fans across the globe.

“That’s the beauty of music. It has a way of traveling faster than language, territory, or culture. Latin music carries a very strong emotional core, and that’s why I think people relate to it organically.

Martin, who was honored with the first Latin Icon Award at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2025, added: “It still amazes me to see people from so many different backgrounds connecting with my music, I’m very grateful.

“We’re all more similar than we sometimes think. I’ve always been honest in my music and in my life. Whether someone understands the lyrics or not, they can feel the intention.

“I sing about love, freedom, vulnerability, celebration, things that exist in every culture. I think people respond to authenticity.”

The concert series this year includes Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi and American musician John Mayer.

Also performing are Ludovico Einaudi (Jan. 10), Max Richter (Jan. 29), Mariah Carey (Feb. 7), and Bryan Adams (Feb. 11).