Becky G speaks candidly at Cultural Rhythms

Dance took center stage at the 39th annual Cultural Rhythms festival as students exhibited remarkable footwork from various cultures.

“It feels absolutely right to be amongst so many young people devoted to representation and to embracing authenticity,” remarked five-time Latin Grammy nominee Becky G, who was recognized as Artist of the Year during the April 5 event.

Since 1986, Cultural Rhythms has brought together the Harvard community for a celebration of the cultural and ethnic richness of its student population. This tradition has developed into a weeklong event, featuring a fashion show and culinary fair. The grand conclusion, coordinated by the Harvard Foundation, is a student-led showcase of performing arts and the Artist of the Year ceremony at Sanders Theatre.

Previous honorees of the award include musical icons Lady Gaga and Rubén Blades, alongside actors Courtney B. Vance, Angela Bassett, Eva Longoria, and Viola Davis.

“It’s a remarkable lineup of outstanding individuals who have achieved so much,” Becky G, 28, communicated to the Gazette. “I feel like my journey is just beginning.”

This year’s international tour highlighted the Harvard Dankira Dance Troupe, showcasing Ethiopian and Eritrean folk dance, and Bhangra, energizing the crowd with vibrant Punjabi moves. Audience members were compelled to stand by Omo Naija x The Wahala Boys, who delivered a performance worthy of Las Vegas. Becky G was seen applauding from her seat as Bryant Valenzuela ’25 and Mariachi Veritas collaborated with RAZA Ballet Folklórico to present the diverse dance and musical traditions of Mexico.

The 2½-hour segment, titled “Global Encounters,” included performances from 10 student groups. A standout moment was when the Kuumba Singers of Harvard College delivered an impassioned rendition of “Can’t Give Up Now” by the duo Mary Mary. The song features an adapted chorus from the classic Black gospel piece “I Don’t Feel Noways Tired.”

Habiba Braimah, senior director of the Harvard Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations, shared her perspective on the significance of these performances. “We are reminded that art possesses power,” she expressed to the audience. “Dance, storytelling, and music are healing arts, and culture — all cultures, including yours — is vital in a world that often feels polarized, where our identities may be misconstrued or even challenged.”

Becky G was celebrated for her artistic achievements and various positive contributions. At the conclusion of the evening, the singer, songwriter, actress, and advocate took the stage alongside festival co-directors Anapaula Barba ’25 and Hayat Hassan ’25 for a discussion encompassing topics from career paths to mental wellness and philanthropy.

Becky G, whose birth name is Rebecca Marie Gomez, has previously been open about her struggles with anxiety. At Sanders, she urged those grappling with mental health issues to seek assistance, regardless of cultural taboos they may encounter.

“As I matured, I recognized that my responsibility isn’t solely to be a role model but to be a genuine model,” Becky G stated in an interview. “This means acknowledging my imperfections and the mistakes I make.”

With over 28 billion career streams and renowned roles in films such as “Power Rangers” (2017) and DC’s “Blue Beetle” (2023), along with her chart-topping songs “Shower” and “Mayores,” featuring Bad Bunny, Becky G leverages her platform to bring awareness to marginalized communities.

“One thing that stands out is that there is no shortage of talent, nor is there a scarcity of passionate individuals eager to put in the work, but there exists a deficit of opportunity,” she remarked.

She is involved with Altadena Girls, an organization aiding girls who lost their homes in this year’s Eaton Canyon fire.

A devoted admirer of the late Selena Quintanilla — known as the Queen of Tejano Music — along with contemporary reggaeton stars, she celebrated the fact that Latinx musicians no longer need to “cross over.” In the past, breaking into the U.S. music industry meant performing in English. However, today’s Spanish-speaking artists can remain true to their heritage.

“When we create pathways for ourselves, we are also paving the way for the next generations, improving opportunities bit by bit,” reflected Becky G, the first Latina to be honored as Artist of the Year in a decade.