Singer slammed over outfit during US national anthem at first-ever NFL game in Spain
Karina Paisan stepped onto the field at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium with a level of confidence and vocal skill that immediately captured the attention of everyone watching. The historic matchup between the Washington Commanders and the Miami Dolphins marked the first NFL game ever played in Spain, and the moment needed an opening performance that felt memorable. Paisan, an American pop and R and B singer originally from New York City and now living in Madrid, delivered exactly that. Her voice carried through the stadium with power and clarity, giving the Star Spangled Banner an emotional lift that many praised online. Yet the reaction that followed was not centered on her singing. Instead, social media soon erupted with heated debate about her outfit, creating a wave of criticism that overshadowed her performance for a portion of viewers.
The game itself was already significant. Fans from the United States and Spain gathered to witness a milestone for the NFL, with football culture expanding into new corners of the world. When Paisan walked out to sing, she brought with her an impressive musical background. Signed with Def Jam as a teenager, she quickly earned respect in the industry for her vocal ability. Her song titled Can not Find the Words earned a Grammy nomination in the Best Contemporary R and B category. She even performed at the White House during Black Music Month in the year two thousand seven, an achievement that placed her among recognized artists in American music. For many, seeing her take the stage in Madrid felt like a fitting choice for such a historic sporting event.
Paisan chose a bold and expressive outfit for her performance. She wore a black mini dress with a deep cowl neckline, paired with thigh high stockings, garters, and long gloves that extended above her elbows. The look had a dramatic and theatrical quality, the kind often seen in modern pop and R and B performances. However, the moment she finished singing, social media users began voicing strong reactions. One user on Twitter, quoted by the New York Post, wrote, “The anthem was lovely, but why is she dressed like that?” Others described her appearance as inappropriate, comparing her outfit to cabaret attire and arguing that it took away from the solemn nature of the national anthem. Some comments were harsh, claiming that the style showed a lack of respect for such a traditional moment.
Not everyone agreed with the criticism. Many people spoke up to defend Paisan, saying that her clothing choice did not diminish the quality or emotion of her performance. Several praised her powerful vocals, noting that the Star Spangled Banner is a difficult song that few artists can sing well. Supporters pointed out that throughout entertainment history, performers have used fashion as part of their artistic expression. To them, Paisan simply brought her own style to the stage, and the focus should have remained on her talent. One user wrote, “She knocked it out of the park. Great voice and great performance.” Another added, “Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered.”
The divide in opinions reflects the tension that often arises when artistic expression intersects with tradition. For some, the national anthem is a moment that calls for formality. For others, music is a creative art, and artists should have the freedom to express themselves in ways that feel true to their identity. Paisan’s performance highlighted this cultural conversation once again.
In the end, Karina Paisan accomplished what she came to do. She honored her country with a strong and heartfelt rendition of the national anthem during a moment that will be remembered in NFL history. Whether viewers focused on her outfit or her voice, she remained composed, confident, and expressive. Her appearance at the first NFL game in Spain became a reminder that fashion, tradition, and public opinion often collide, yet true talent continues to shine through.
