The Latin Grammy nods are out, and Gabriella Martinez, a Houston-based artist with a penchant for viral Selena covers, has found her name in the race. According to the Houston Chronicle, Martinez's EP "Siempre Gabriella" has earned her a nomination for Best Tejano Album at this year’s Latin Grammy Awards. Transitioning from social media success to legitimate recognition, Martinez has managed to quickly become a standout figure within the Tejano music scene.
Martinez, who records under her first name, turned to Instagram to share her gratitude. "When I was 19, I packed everything up and moved to Texas, not knowing what would come next. I left everything I knew behind and put all my faith in God. Thank you, thank you, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who has supported me and who continues to support me," she told the Houston Chronicle. The 22-year-old singer, originally from Florida, has rapidly become to personify the struggle and triumph associated with chasing the Tejano dream. Martinez is notably the only Texas-based nominee in a category that historically has been heavily influenced by Mexican artists.
Her influence doesn't just stop at the music. On social media platforms like TikTok, Martinez has racked up millions of views with her Selena song covers, achieving viral status that has no doubt contributed to her burgeoning career. "My Heart is Not a Toy," Martinez's recent EP of soulful pop tracks, showcases her musical versatility beyond her Tejano roots.
Meanwhile, Gabriella's nomination excitement spilled from Instagram to TikTok, where Tejano Nation reports she celebrated from none other than Disney World, describing her feeling as “I’m so excited. I don’t even know what to say. I’ve been shaking all day. This is exciting. This is just a new journey for me and I’m extremely grateful. I’m extremely blessed. So, thank you. And to the fans, thank y’all for getting me here. Thank you for being here for me. Thank you for being on this journey. This is just the beginning y’all. Let’s do it. Latin Grammys baby.”
Martinez squares off against some stout competition, including past winners and nominees in the Best Tejano Album category. The 25th Latin Grammy Awards are set to be held in Miami, Florida, and will be broadcast at 7 p.m. Nov. 14 on Univision, Galavisión, and ViX.
