Maná is among the select group artists nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year — and they’re the first-ever Spanish-language rock band to be considered for inclusion. On Wednesday, the iconic Mexican rock group celebrated the accomplishment by dedicating their nomination to immigrants in the U.S.
“We want to share this recognition with all Latinos everywhere, especially the immigrants who are suffering right now,” frontman Fher Olvera said in a statement. “Don’t lose faith. Our people always find a way. Maná loves you.”
While they’re the first Spanish-language band on the nominee list, they join a group of Latino artists who’ve been nominated in the past, including Santana, Ritchie Valens, Linda Ronstadt, and Los Lobos.
“We’re four guys who grew up in Mexico listening to rock and roll —The Beatles, The Stones, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Santana, etc etc. We dreamed of sharing our lyrics and music with the world. We wanted to share the sounds and spirit of Mexico and Latin America,” Olvera added. “To be nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is almost impossible to imagine. We’re honored and grateful.”
Joe Walsh of the Eagles celebrated Maná’s accolade, reminiscing on the “exhilarating” time he performed with the Mexican band during their Los Angeles residency several years ago.
“As they sing in Spanish, you may have never heard of them but this is a great band you should know and they certainly deserve to be in the Hall of Fame,” Walsh tells Rolling Stone. “Great group of guys – I’d be happy to induct them if they get in.”
Along with Maná, 13 other artists will be considered for the Rock Hall’s Class of 2025, including Mariah Carey, The White Stripes, Oasis, Cyndi Lauper, Joy Division/New Order, Billy Idol, The Black Crowes, and Outkast.
Maná’s was a major voice ahead of last year’s election. They pulled a song with Nicky Jam from streaming services after he endorsed Donald Trump and also performed at a Kamala Harris rally. The band has pushed for immigration reform and Latino causes for decades.
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