In June 2025, Nezza, the Dominican-born singer and activist, set the stage on fire when she performed a Spanish-language rendition of the U.S. national anthem at a high-profile cultural event in Los Angeles. The bold choice was a celebration of immigrant heritage and Latinx pride, but it also ignited a fierce national debate about cultural identity, unity, and the role of music in social movements. Nezza’s performance wasn’t just about hitting the right notes — it was a reflection of her ongoing commitment to advocating for immigrant rights and the broader recognition of immigrant communities in American society.
Nezza’s Controversial but Empowering Anthem Performance
On June 14, 2025, Nezza stood before a packed crowd in Los Angeles, a city that has long been a hub for Latinx culture. She chose to sing the U.S. national anthem in Spanish, specifically the version known as El Pendón Estrellado — a Spanish translation of the anthem first composed in the 1940s to strengthen ties between the U.S. and Latin America.
While her performance was an artistic expression of her cultural pride, it sparked immediate controversy. Critics questioned whether singing the anthem in Spanish could undermine national unity, but supporters celebrated the rendition as a bold stand for immigrant communities. For Nezza, the act was deeply personal. “This is my voice, my culture, and my family’s history,” she explained on social media. “I stand with immigrants who have been silenced.”
A Statement on Identity and Representation
Nezza’s performance occurred during a time when issues of immigration, cultural representation, and national identity were front and center in American society. The choice to perform the anthem in Spanish was more than just a musical decision; it was a political statement about belonging and cultural recognition, especially in a city like Los Angeles where Latinx people make up a significant portion of the population.
By singing in Spanish, Nezza made a statement about the value of cultural diversity in America. The performance sparked crucial conversations about what it truly means to be an American, particularly for those whose identities have been marginalized or erased. In an interview with Univision, Nezza expressed, “This isn’t just about singing a song; it’s about making a statement about who we are as a community and where we belong in this country.”
The Growing Support and Solidarity from the Latinx Community
Despite the backlash, Nezza received widespread support from her fans, artists, and activist groups. Among her vocal supporters was Kike Hernández, a star player for the Los Angeles Dodgers and vocal advocate for immigrant rights. Hernández praised Nezza’s bravery and commitment to cultural pride. “Nezza is speaking for us,” he said.
Her performance sparked an outpouring of solidarity from local communities, with fans and activists alike rallying behind her. Her supporters viewed the anthem performance as a pivotal moment in the broader conversation about Latinx representation in American culture, particularly within mainstream spaces.
Nezza’s Continued Advocacy Through Music and Influence
This performance was not just a one-off; it solidified Nezza’s role as a powerful advocate for immigrant rights and cultural pride. She has long used her platform to address social issues, particularly the struggles of immigrant communities. In addition to being an influential figure in the Latinx music scene, Nezza’s advocacy for immigrant rights and social justice continues to resonate far beyond her music.
Known for blending reggaeton, R&B, and pop, Nezza’s music speaks to the experiences of those who are often overlooked. As her career continues to rise, she remains a voice for the voiceless, particularly for marginalized immigrant communities. By embracing her Dominican roots and standing up for the rights of others, Nezza is helping to create a new space for Latinx artists in mainstream culture.
The Impact on Latinx Visibility in Mainstream Spaces
Nezza’s bold decision to sing the national anthem in Spanish is part of a larger movement in the entertainment industry to amplify Latinx voices. Her actions echo those of other Latinx artists and creators who are fighting for visibility and recognition in an industry that has often sidelined their contributions.
For Nezza, music is not just about entertainment — it is a tool for social change. Through her art, she has shown how music can challenge societal norms, elevate marginalized voices, and create meaningful conversations. Her performance of the national anthem in Spanish may have been controversial, but it also highlighted the urgent need for broader cultural recognition and inclusion.
Conclusion: A Cultural Milestone for Nezza and Beyond
Nezza’s performance at the June 2025 cultural event in Los Angeles will undoubtedly be remembered as a cultural milestone. By choosing to sing the U.S. national anthem in Spanish, she made an empowering statement about cultural pride, immigrant rights, and the importance of representation.
Her advocacy and activism continue to shape her legacy as an artist. As her career progresses, Nezza’s influence within the music industry and beyond will serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for future generations of artists, activists, and immigrants.
Nezza’s performance was not just about a song; it was about redefining what it means to be an American, celebrating diversity, and challenging the narrative of who gets to belong in the nation’s story. Her voice, both musical and political, will continue to inspire conversations about identity, culture, and the power of art to bring about change.