Shakira broke down in tears as her father serenaded her at a star-studded Las Vegas dinner celebrating her career on Wednesday (09Nov11).

Black Eyed Peas rapper Taboo and Mexican rocker Alejandra Guzman also turned up to toast the Colombian singer as she was named the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year at the special tribute.

Venezuelan star Franco De Vita and salsa legend Gilberto Santa Rosa were among the acts who performed Shakira's hits, but the night's most poignant moment came as her dad William Mebarak stepped onstage to serenade her.

Shakira wiped away tears as Mebarak sang the classic song Mi Nina Bonita (My Pretty Girl), while pictures of the father and daughter appeared on a big screen behind him.

She later told him, "Thank you, daddy, for that song."

Salsa star Marc Anthony was on hand to present Shakira with her crystal plaque, telling the crowd, "We are in the presence of one of the most special human beings, one of the most talented human beings you will ever meet."

After receiving the trophy, Shakira said in Spanish, "I'll carry this night with me always. It's an honour that I am not sure I deserve, but you've made me very happy."

For the grand finale, Shakira dedicated the track En Barranquilla me Quedo to her hometown of Barranquilla and showed off her salsa moves as she danced onstage.

According to the Associated Press, Shakira is the youngest person to receive the prestigious award from the Latin Recording Academy. Previous honourees include Ricky Martin, Carlos Santana and Gloria Estefan.

The honour capped a golden week for Shakira, who became the first Colombian to be honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday (08Nov11).