Valeria Castro and Carlos Ares Lead Winners at 18th Annual MIN Awards
Valeria Castro and Carlos Ares led the winners at the 18th annual MIN Awards in Córdoba, an event celebrating the creative influence and generational evolution of Spain’s independent music scene.
Spain’s independent music scene marked a major generational shift this week at the 18th annual MIN Awards. Held at the Gran Teatro de Córdoba, the ceremony—organized by the Independent Phonographic Union (UFi)—offered a clear look at the creative strength of independent record labels operating outside the mainstream industry.
The night’s biggest winners were Valeria Castro from La Palma and Galician artist Carlos Ares, who each took home three awards. Castro was recognized for her album El cuerpo después de todo, winning Best Roots Music Album, Best Artist, and the Radio 3 Song of the Year award for Tiene que ser más fácil. Ares saw similar success with La boca del lobo, which won Best Album of the Year and Best Pop Album, while his performance at the Sonorama Ribera festival earned him the award for Best Live Show.
The winners’ list showcased a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Quique González proved his enduring influence by winning Best Rock Album for 1973 and Best Original Lyrics for Terciopelo azul. Meanwhile, the Best Emerging Artist award went to Sanguijuelas del Guadiana, highlighting a new name to watch in the industry.
The ceremony also honored Ana Curra with the Mario Pacheco Honorary Award, celebrating her vital role in the evolution of Spain’s alternative music scene. As a key event for independent culture, the MIN Awards continue to shine a light on the artists and projects that define Spain’s modern sound, even when they operate far from the commercial mainstream.