Anitta Makes History as First Brazilian Artist to Debut on SNL
- Anitta became the first Brazilian artist to perform as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live during the April 11, 2026, episode.
- The appearance served as a showcase for Anitta's upcoming seventh studio album, Equilibrium, which is scheduled for release on April 16, 2026, through Republic Records.
- For her first set, Anitta performed the newly released single Choka Choka, a collaboration with Shakira.
Anitta became the first Brazilian artist to perform as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live during the April 11, 2026, episode. The singer, born Larissa de Macedo Machado in Rio de Janeiro, appeared on the NBC sketch show alongside host Colman Domingo.
The appearance served as a showcase for Anitta’s upcoming seventh studio album, Equilibrium, which is scheduled for release on April 16, 2026, through Republic Records. During her debut in Studio 8H, Anitta delivered two performances that highlighted the sonic directions of her new project.
Performances and Visuals
For her first set, Anitta performed the newly released single Choka Choka
, a collaboration with Shakira. Although the studio version of the track is a duet, Shakira did not appear during the live broadcast. Anitta performed the pulsating track accompanied by a live backing band and flashing lights, wearing a form-fitting brown ensemble and flanked by dancers in similar styling.
The track was released on April 10, 2026, as part of New Music Friday. On April 11, 2026, Choka Choka
debuted at No. 89 on the Daily Global Spotify Chart, recording 1.7 million streams.
Anitta returned later in the episode for a second performance of the track Várias Quejas
, which translates to Several Complaints
. This performance featured a more intimate and atmospheric set design characterized by lush greenery and flowers. Dressed in a purple dress, Anitta delivered an emotionally charged rendition of the moody song accompanied by the live band.
The Evolution of Equilibrium
The Saturday Night Live appearance aligns with the strategic rollout of Equilibrium. The project was first announced on March 30, 2026, to coincide with Anitta’s 33rd birthday.
The new album represents a tonal shift from her previous work, specifically 2024’s Funk Generation, which received a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Pop Album. While Funk Generation was driven by high-energy funk, Equilibrium is expected to incorporate reggae influences and a more cohesive thematic direction.
The lead single from the project, Pinterest
, introduced a more introspective narrative for the artist, focusing on self-reflection and childhood memories.
Global Career Trajectory
Anitta has established herself as a prominent musical export from Brazil, working to bring Brazilian music to a global audience. Her international profile grew significantly with the viral reggaetón hit Envolver
, which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart in 2022.
Beyond chart success, she has expanded her reach through high-profile appearances at international events, including performances at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
The April 11, 2026, episode of Saturday Night Live also featured Colman Domingo making his first appearance as the host of the long-running series.