Anitta’s Historic SNL Debut: A Star is Born (Again)
Saturday Night Live, a comedy institution for over 50 years, continues to break barriers. On April 11th, the show welcomed Anitta as its musical guest, making history as the first Brazilian headliner in the show’s storied history. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a cultural moment, solidifying Anitta’s place as a global superstar.
From Rio to the World Stage
Anitta, one of Brazil’s most prominent artists, already boasts a significant fanbase in the US, having contributed to soundtracks like Charlie’s Angels and achieving massive success with 2020’s hit, “Me Gusta,” featuring Cardi B and Myke Towers. However, a performance on the iconic Studio 8H stage has a unique power to catapult an artist into the mainstream consciousness. (Think Morgan Wallen’s rise to fame after his SNL appearance.)
Getting to Know Anitta
Born Larissa de Macedo Machado in Rio de Janeiro’s Honório Gurgel neighbourhood, Anitta’s musical journey began at the age of eight as a singer in her parish church choir. She balanced her artistic pursuits with academic studies, learning English and dance, and even earning a certificate in public administration. But her passion ultimately led her back to the arts.
Early Success and Inspiration
In 2013, at just 20 years old, Anitta won the “Best New Artist” award from the São Paulo Association of Critics, marking a turning point in her career. Her stage name was inspired by the 2001 TV series Presença de Anita, drawn to the character’s ability to embody both sensuality and strength. Discovered on YouTube by record producer Renato Azevedo, she quickly rose to prominence with her single “Meiga e Abusada” and the viral hit “Show das Poderosas.”
Global Breakthroughs
Anitta’s career continued to ascend, with performances at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio alongside Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil, and recognition at the 2016 MTV Europe Music Awards. Her 2017 collaboration with Iggy Azalea, “Switch,” and the revamped version of “Sua Cara” by Major Lazer, marked her first foray into the international charts.
Signing with Warner Records’ US label in 2020, she released “Me Gusta” with Cardi B, topping charts worldwide. A move to Sony Music Publishing in 2022 further propelled her success, with “Envolver” becoming the first Brazilian song to top Spotify’s Global Top 200 and breaking streaming records.
Recent Achievements & Collaborations
Anitta’s momentum continued into 2022 and beyond, with performances at Lollapalooza alongside Miley Cyrus and Coachella, a featured role in Jack Harlow’s “First Class” music video, and a Madame Tussauds New York wax figure. She even collaborated with Madonna on the track “Faz Gostoso” and performed “Vogue” with the Queen of Pop in Rio.
Facing Controversy and Staying True
Anitta hasn’t shied away from controversy, notably after showcasing practices from her Afro-Brazilian faith, Candomblé, in the “Aceita” music video. She eloquently defended her beliefs, stating her faith in a universal divine power and refusing to be silenced by intolerance. Vanity Fair provides further insight into this important moment.
Where to Learn More
If Anitta’s SNL performance piqued your interest, be sure to check out Larissa: The Other Side of Anitta on Netflix, a revealing documentary that topped charts in Brazil and Portugal and reached Netflix’s global Top 10.
Anitta’s journey is a testament to talent, perseverance, and a refusal to compromise her artistic vision. Her SNL appearance is not just a milestone for her, but for Brazilian music and representation on the global stage.
