Mexican rock band Maná made history by becoming the first Spanish-language rock band to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, according to a report by NBC News. In a statement released on Instagram, the members expressed their gratitude for the nomination, considering it an almost unimaginable honor. Since its founding in 1986, Maná has established itself as one of the most influential bands in rock en español, being recognized by the Hall of Fame as the most popular Latin rock group of all time.
In addition to celebrating the achievement, the band dedicated the recognition to the Latino community and immigrants, encouraging them to maintain faith and hope in difficult times. Maná has a history of activism for Latino rights, and in recent years has taken a stand against former President Donald Trump after his disparaging comments about Mexicans. In 2016, the group launched the "Latino Power Tour" to mobilize the vote of the Hispanic community, and in 2023, it withdrew a musical collaboration with singer Nicky Jam after he expressed support for Trump, reaffirming their commitment to the dignity of Latinos.
Maná's nomination for the Hall of Fame comes alongside the likes of Bad Company, The Black Crowes, Billy Idol, OutKast, Mariah Carey and Soundgarden. The foundation's president, John Sykes, highlighted the influence of the nominees on the evolution of rock & roll. To date, only three Hispanic artists have been inducted into the Hall of Fame: Santana, Ritchie Valens and Linda Ronstadt, all of whom have repertoire mostly in English.
Hailing from Guadalajara, Maná's main line-up
includes Fher Olvera, Juan Calleros, Alex González and Sergio Vallín. In their
statement, the musicians highlighted their inspiration in bands such as The
Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen and Santana, highlighting their desire to
bring the sounds and spirit of Mexico and Latin America to the world, according
to the publication. The artists who will be officially inducted into the Hall
of Fame will be announced at the end of April.