He’s made music that has seriously entertained the masses… And, now Pitbull is being recognized for his influence on the entertainment industry.

The 31-year-old Cuban American rap superstar—who recently partnered with Jennifer Lopez on “Dance Again,” their second hit single together—received the BMI President’s Award during the 19th edition of the BMI Awards.

Held Friday night at the Encore Hotel in Las Vegas, the gala also served to recognize the work of songwriters and recording studios for the success of their musical creations in 2011.

Pitbull, who performed at the ceremony, also received the BMI award for songwriter of the year, a recognition he shared with Juan Luis Morena Luna “Wisin,” Llandel Veguilla Malave “Yandel” and Espinoza Paz.

“Niña de mi corazon,” recorded by La Arrolladora Banda El Limon, was selected as the BMI Latin song of the year with the award going to songwriter Horacio Palencia.

In the past, the BMI President’s Award has been presented to Juanes, Kike Santander and Gloria Estefan.