LAS VEGAS (AP) - April 30, 2010
Famed producer and musician Emilio Estefan told The Associated Press on Friday that the award was special to him because it is the first time he and his wife have received a star as a couple, and it comes from the entertainment capital of the world.
"People love Latin music - it's a proven fact through my career," Estefan said. "It's very much about the American dream."
The 57-year-old mogul, who has worked with Shakira, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony along with his wife, said he was overwhelmed by fan response and hopes to bring a concert to Las Vegas soon.
"Being in Vegas is different, you know how many millions of people pass by here," Estefan said as he prepared to go to a book signing before the star was to be placed on the sidewalk outside the Flamingo hotel-casino.
Gloria Estefan, 52, has performed in Las Vegas and is known throughout the world for her hits including "Conga" and "Turn the Beat Around."
Las Vegas Walk of Stars spokesman Pablo Castro Zavala said the star - the 48th for the walk and its first awarded to a married couple - comes in response to fans writing and asking that the Grammy-winning couple be recognized.
Zavala said the board that approves the stars approved separate stars for Estefan and his wife, but the Estefans wanted only one.
"They decided it was a better idea to do one for both because they are a couple," Zavala said.
Hundreds of people attended a Thursday ceremony for the Estefans at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, where the star was presented along with honors from local, state and federal lawmakers from Nevada.
Estefan said he hoped the star and his career would serve as inspiration for other people.
"Not only Latinos, but any kid that has brains," he said. "We live in the best country in the world."
