MEXICO CITY – The Mexican pop-rock band Maná has made a bold move by removing its 2016 collaboration with Nicky Jam from online platforms. This decision came after the Puerto Rican reggaeton artist publicly expressed his support for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump.
“Maná does not work with racists,” the group emphasized in an Instagram post, clarifying their stance on the matter. The song in question, “De pies a cabeza,” was a remix released in 2016 as part of Maná’s iconic album ”¿Dónde jugarán los niños?”
The band further reiterated their commitment to supporting and defending the rights of Latinos worldwide over the past three decades. In a statement on Instagram, they stated, “There is no business or promotion worth compromising the dignity of our people.
Jam, known for hit songs like “Travesuras” and “Voy a Beber,” openly endorsed Trump at a recent rally in Las Vegas, where the former president mistakenly referred to him as a woman. Despite this mix-up, Jam seemed pleased to meet Trump, who has championed stringent anti-immigrant policies throughout his political career.
Maná has been a vocal advocate for migrant rights in the United States for more than twenty years. Their lead vocalist, Fher Olvera, emphasized this commitment while receiving the Latin Recording Academy’s Person of the Year award in 2018, pledging to continue fighting for the rights of migrants who have contributed to the nation’s greatness.
Despite the band’s decision, a representative for Jam did not provide an immediate response to The Associated Press’ inquiry. Maná’s representative confirmed the group’s statement but did not disclose further details.
Hailing from Jalisco, Mexico, Maná has earned multiple Latin Grammys and Grammys, solidifying their status as one of Latin America’s most influential bands. The group even boasts a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Joining a growing list of artists distancing themselves from Trump, Maná’s action underscores their unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. Artists like ABBA, Celine Dion, and Bruce Springsteen have also expressed similar concerns over the use of their music for political purposes.
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