Mexican Singer Joan Sebastian Honored In Los Angeles

Joan Sebastian was honored in a ceremony held by the International Press Association in the midst of the singer's successful sold out tour in the United States.

The ceremony was performed during Sebastian's concert in Los Angeles, California. 

"It's an honor to pay this special tribute to one of the most representative regional singers in Mexican music, a great composer, someone who is proudly Mexican," said Pablo Antonio Castro Zavala, president of the Las Vegas International Press Association. 

The singer of songs like "Secreto De Amor" and "La Derrota," among other hits, has received the Diamond Award from Castro Zavalo for a 40-year career and prominent presence on the international stage, including contributions to the songwriting craft.

Sebastian has been a composer of several hits for other musical stars over the years, including Lucero, Rocio Durcal, Alicia Villarreal and many others.

Sebastian also received a proclamation from governmental authorities who proclaimed "Joan Sebastian Day" in the city. The State Senate also presented the singer with a special certificate.

"The King of Jaripeo," thanked the International Press Association for honoring him with the distinction which he dedicated to his family and to the public that has supported him over the years.

"I am very moved by this honor. This means a lot to me. I want to thank everyone out there because without you I would never have been able to fulfill my dreams," Sebastian said, referring to his fan base. 

The singer's final two concert dates for his U.S. tour are to be held in Nevada on June 1 and in Tacoma, Wash. on June 14. 

Joan Sebastian made headlines most recently with a very unique collaboration with Will.I.Am, who is best known for being a part of the Black Eyed Peas. The club-oriented song was titled Hey You and meant a definite departure in musical style for Joan Sebastian who has sold over 40 million albums worldwide. He also released the more traditional single "La Derrota" this year.

Sebastian will also take part in a new TV series with fellow singers Espinoza Paz, Ana Barbara and comedian Hector Suarez, which will revolve around the life of a family of undocumented workers. The project, that will be shot in Los Angeles, has yet to find distribution. But Suarez, who is at the head of the series, is confident that there will be a lot of interest from Hispanic networks in the United States.