Grammy-winning superstar Rosalía took a poignant moment during WSJ. Magazine’s Innovator Awards to address the tragic high-speed train accident in Spain earlier this week.

Honoured for her groundbreaking contributions to music and culture, the Spanish singer-songwriter set aside celebration to express her deep sorrow and solidarity with those affected by the devastating news back home.

Speaking in her native Spanish, Rosalía addressed the audience with an emotional tribute to the victims and their families. “Before I begin, I want to send my heart, my thoughts, and all my strength to everyone back home in Spain affected by the terrible train tragedy,” she said during her acceptance speech at the New York ceremony. “It is hard to celebrate when such painful moments are happening to our people. My heart is completely with the victims, their loved ones, and everyone working tirelessly to help in this difficult hour.”

Her moving address cast a reflective tone over the star-studded event, where leaders across fashion, art, entertainment and literature gathered to celebrate creative innovation. Rather than focusing solely on her own achievements, Rosalía used her global platform to highlight the strength and resilience of her homeland during a period of national mourning.

Her words resonated strongly with attendees and fans around the world, who praised the artist for her poise, empathy and connection to her roots during an international spotlight moment.