MIAMI, Fla. -- Top Billboard hits like "I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” have landed 28-year-old Armando Perez, or Pitbull as he's known by his fans, a number of music awards. His music videos are flashy and his Miami-inspired lyrics equally catchy.

But now the man who as admitted to once being a drug dealer is the official recipient of the key to the city.

"I've worked very hard for this. This is a huge honor. Definitely the cherry on top of it all," Pitbull told Local 10's Jonathan Vigliotti.

In the past two years, the Cuban-American artist's music has gained an international following. The key to the city is a symbol of this success.

"It's been an incredible time. Miami has played a big role," Pitbull said.

On Wednesday, city Commissioner Tomas Regalado presented Pitbull with the key, one of the city's highest honors.

"To pay for the type of positive public relations Pitbull has given Miami would cost millions of dollars. His work is commendable," Regalado said.

Commissioners are permitted to hand out keys to anyone they chose. But some critics question the judgment used in this case.

"This musician is not someone I would call a positive role model. His music devalues women and talks about drugs and sex," said commissioner Joe Sanchez.

Sanchez noted the singer also had a rap sheet.

Pitbull was arrested twice on DUI charges. He was acquitted of one of those charges in July and pleaded no contest to another in 2001. That same year, the rapper was arrested for marijuana possession.

"This is all part of life. Justice was eventually served," Pitbull said.

But with a new album about to be released this September and with commissioner Regaldo running for mayor, is this all a publicity stunt?

"No. Definitely not. Pitbull has made a lot of contributions to Miami," Regalado said.

Mayor Manny Diaz's office would not comment on whether the mayor approved of Wednesday's ceremony.