Authenticity just became the hottest beauty pageant trend. While contestants typically stick to safe ballads or traditional folk songs, Ignacia Fernández delivered something no judge panel expected: brutal death metal vocals on live television.
The 27-year-old Miss World Chile contestant’s November 2 performance went viral faster than a dropped beat, earning international coverage from Australia to Spain and advancing her to the finals. Her breakthrough moment represents the collision of extreme music culture with mainstream pageantry, showcasing how genuine artistry is being rewarded in traditionally conservative spaces.
Growls That Conquered Judges
Fernández performed an original track from her progressive death metal band Decessus, accompanied by guitarist Carlos Palma. The nationally televised semifinal showcased her signature growling technique—a vocal style more commonly heard in underground venues than beauty competitions.
Despite her nerves about potential ridicule, telling Las Últimas Noticias, “Television lends itself to people making memes and making fun of you… The song I sang is by my band. It’s my job, my life,” she secured her spot in the top 20. If she wins the November 9 final, Fernández will represent Chile at Miss Universe.
The performance demonstrates how artists are taking calculated risks to present their authentic selves, even when facing potential mockery from mainstream audiences.
Serious Musician, Not Novelty Act
This isn’t a publicity stunt disguised as talent. Fernández has modeled since 2013 and co-founded Decessus in 2020, developing her extreme vocals through two years of focused study with an ENT specialist and speech therapist. Her dedication includes extensive warmups before every show and ongoing consultation with medical professionals to protect her vocal health.
The band has shared stages with metal heavyweights:
- Insomnium
- Jinjer
- Epica
Her success reflects Chile’s broader metal scene gaining international recognition, following bands like Mawiza who’ve supported Slipknot and King Diamond while incorporating indigenous Mapuche themes into their sound.
The intersection of extreme music and mainstream television feels like watching genres finally break down their artificial barriers. Fernández’s advancement proves that audiences crave genuine artistry over manufactured perfection, suggesting we might see more artists bringing their true selves to traditionally conservative platforms where real talent trumps safe choices.
