Karina Pasian became one of the week’s most talked-about performers after singing the United States national anthem at the NFL’s first-ever regular season game in Spain. The 34-year-old Grammy nominee delivered a powerful rendition of the anthem at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium before the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins kicked off in Madrid. But soon after, the spotlight shifted from her vocals to the outfit she wore during the ceremony.
Pasian appeared in a black mini dress paired with thigh-high garters and gloves, a look that quickly sparked debate across social media. Some viewers questioned whether the attire was appropriate for a national anthem performance. Pasian later addressed the reaction, explaining that the outfit was intentionally chosen and had been approved in advance by the NFL.
Karina Pasian Speaks Out After Mixed Public Reaction To Her Anthem Outfit
Following her performance, the online debate only grew louder. While many praised her vocal delivery, others sharply criticized Karina Pasian’s wardrobe choice, calling the look “classless” and “inappropriate,” with some even comparing it to nightclub attire.
The contrasting reactions created a divide between admiration for her singing and scrutiny over her fashion. Despite the chatter, Pasian stood firm, emphasizing that she followed every required step.
She told TMZ Sports, “They approved my outfit a few days before. It was all approved by the NFL.” Pasian explained that the styling reflected her creative identity, drawing from a cabaret-inspired aesthetic she enjoys. She added that offending anyone was never her intention and that she was surprised by how much attention the outfit received.
“I’m really sorry if anyone felt offended by it, but it wasn’t my intention. My intention was to have a good time. I loved my outfit,” she added. Pasian noted that she wanted the performance to convey confidence and artistry.
She also pointed out that the moment has brought extra attention to her new single Solo Party, a track centered on celebrating joy and individuality. She said, “It’s about focusing on my journey and not allowing negativity and things to distract me.”
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Pasian’s background in music is extensive and dates back to early childhood. She began playing piano at the age of three and trained classically throughout her youth. She later attended the Professional Performing Arts School in New York, where she refined her vocal and stage skills.
Pasian is multilingual and has performed in Spanish, Russian, French, Italian, and several other languages, an asset that made her a fitting choice for an event on an international stage like Madrid.
Her career highlights include performing at Quincy Jones’ global “We Are the Future” concert in Rome and singing at the White House during Black Music Month in 2007. She signed with Def Jam at a young age and earned a Grammy nomination for her debut album First Love, establishing herself early as a rising talent in contemporary R&B.
Karina Pasian Stands Firm Behind Her National Anthem Performance
Karina Pasian addressed the criticism over her outfit by responding directly to fans on social media. She took to Instagram to share her thoughts and showcase the reactions she received following her national anthem performance at the Commanders and Dolphins game in Madrid.
Her post featured a brief message along with screenshots of comments from viewers reacting to her appearance. “Thank youuuuuu” she wrote on her Instagram Story as she reposted messages praising her performance.
Pasian also expressed her appreciation to the league for inviting her to perform at such a historic event, showing gratitude despite the mixed public response.
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“Thank you so much @nfl for this amazing opportunity! It was an honor to sing the national anthem at the first-ever NFL game in Spain!!” she wrote.
Pasian added, “floored with all the love i’ve been receiving. i’m so grateful!!!!!! thank you thank you thank you it’s such an honor to represent my country in the place i now call home 🥹💙”
Her response made it clear that she remained proud of both her performance and the outfit she had chosen for the occasion. Her posts also showed how she focused on the positive support she received alongside the criticism.
