Miss World Chile Contestant Unleashes Death Metal Growls in Stunning Pageant Performance

Forget the usual ballads and dance routines! Ignacia Fernández, a Miss World Chile semifinalist, just blew everyone away by performing an original death metal track from her band, Decessus, proving authenticity reigns supreme.

TL;DR

• Ignacia Fernández, a 27-year-old model and lead vocalist of the progressive death metal band Decessus, performed an original song with guttural vocals at the Miss World Chile 2025 semifinal on November 2nd.
• Her unexpected performance, delivered in an elegant ball gown, stunned judges and earned a standing ovation, securing her a spot in the top 20 finalists for the grand final on November 9th.
• Fernández emphasized her commitment to authenticity, stating, "I'm not trying to fit in. I'm trying to show myself as I am," and highlights metal music as a core part of her identity and a "refuge."

Imagine this: a brightly lit stage, the hush of anticipation, and a contestant gliding out in a breathtaking ball gown, ready for the talent segment of a major beauty pageant. The audience expects a soaring aria or a delicate ballet. Then, she opens her mouth, and instead of a melodic note, a guttural, earth-shaking growl erupts, accompanied by the crushing riffs of an 8-string guitar. This wasn't a dream sequence; it was the electrifying reality at the Miss World Chile 2025 semifinal on Sunday, November 2nd, thanks to Ignacia Fernández.

The 27-year-old model and vocalist wasn't just performing any song; she was unleashing an original progressive death metal track from her band, Decessus, alongside her bandmate, guitarist Carlos Palma. The contrast was immediate and undeniable: brutal vocals meeting pageant glamour head-on. For a few stunned seconds, both judges and attendees seemed to hold their breath, processing the audacious display. Then, as if on cue, shock gave way to an overwhelming wave of enthusiasm, culminating in a thunderous standing ovation. One judge, reportedly, remarked that he had never witnessed anything remotely similar in such a competition, marking the moment as truly unprecedented. Source: [Blabbermouth, "MISS WORLD CHILE Semifinalist Stuns Judges By Performing A Song From Her Own Death Metal Band", November 6, 2025].

Ignacia Fernández's Inspiring Journey to the Miss World Chile Stage

Ignacia Fernández is no stranger to the spotlight, having embarked on her modeling career back in 2013. But beneath the polished veneer of the runway lies an unwavering passion for extreme music. Born and raised in Santiago, Chile, Fernández co-founded Decessus in 2020, cultivating a sound that combines intricate rhythmic structures with aggressive melodic passages. The band, completed by drummer Martín Fénix and bassist Jaime Pepe, has steadily built a formidable reputation within the metal scene, sharing stages with international heavyweights like Insomnium, Jinjer, and even opening for Epica in Santiago in September 2024. Source: [Consequence, "Miss World Chile Contestant Stuns Judges with Death Metal Performance: Watch", November 7, 2025].

Her decision to bring her "other life" to the pageant stage wasn't made lightly. Speaking to the Chilean newspaper Las Últimas Noticias, Fernández admitted to feeling a knot of anxiety about the reception. "Television lends itself to people making memes and making fun of you," she explained. Yet, her resolve was clear: "The song I sang is by my band. It's my job, my life." This wasn't merely a gimmick; it was an authentic expression of her core identity, a brave move in an arena often criticized for its rigid conformity. The risk, it turned out, paid off handsomely. Her performance not only captivated the room but also propelled her into the top 20 contestants, securing her spot in the grand final on Sunday, November 9th. She also reportedly won the popular vote, a testament to her authenticity resonating widely. Source: [¡HOLA!, "Miss World Chile contestant stuns judges with unexpected talent – her death metal vocals", November 6, 2025].

The Rigorous Discipline Behind Her Extreme Vocal Techniques

For those unfamiliar with death metal, the vocal style might seem raw and untrained. However, Fernández's commitment to her craft reveals a level of discipline that rivals any classical vocalist. She detailed her meticulous approach to vocal health, stating, "I studied for more than two years, very focused. I have an ENT [ears, nose, and throat] specialist and a speech therapist with whom I constantly make sure that everything is okay." This isn't just about sounding good; it's about protecting her instrument from the intense demands of guttural singing. Her routine includes dedicated warm-up sessions, taking "between 15 and 30 minutes to do several exercises calmly" before any show. This rigorous regimen ensures both the power and longevity of her distinctive voice. Source: [Metal Hammer, "Miss World Chile contestant stuns the world by singing death metal during competition semifinal", November 6, 2025].

It's a common misconception that extreme vocals are simply "screaming," but Ignacia's dedication highlights the technical mastery required. Without proper technique and care, such a demanding style can quickly lead to vocal damage. Her proactive approach with medical and speech therapy professionals underscores the serious commitment required for this art form, making her ability to seamlessly transition from intricate modeling poses to powerful death metal growls all the more impressive.

An Unapologetic Embrace of Authentic Identity and Expression

More than just a performance, Fernández's appearance on the Miss World Chile stage was a powerful statement about identity and breaking stereotypes. She eloquently articulated her philosophy: "Metal has been a fundamental part of who I am as a person and in my life: a refuge, a source of strength and purpose." This profound connection isn't just a hobby; it’s a foundational aspect of her being, shaping her resilience and perspective. For her, the pageant wasn't about conforming to a predetermined mold but rather about showcasing her complete self. "I'm not trying to fit in. I'm trying to show myself as I am," she declared after her performance, a sentiment that resonated deeply with audiences globally. Source: [iHeartRadio, "This Miss World Chile Finalist is in a Death Metal Band [VIDEO]", November 7, 2025].

Her bold move challenged not only the traditional perceptions of beauty pageants but also the often-misunderstood world of metal music. It demonstrated that elegance and ferocity are not mutually exclusive, and that passion, regardless of genre, is universally compelling. By openly embracing her dual passions, Ignacia provided a visible example of authenticity in a very public sphere. The global attention she received, with outlets across the USA, Australia, and Spain reporting on her performance, underlines the universal appeal of someone daring to be genuinely themselves. Source: [Metal Hammer, "Miss World Chile contestant stuns the world by singing death metal during competition semifinal", November 6, 2025].

"Metal has been a fundamental part of who I am as a person and in my life: a refuge, a source of strength and purpose. Being able to express it on stage at Chilevision and Miss Mundo Chile was an opportunity I deeply value. It was a great experience to break down barriers on open television, inspire, be real with it, and show that you don't have to fear the prejudices of others."

— Ignacia Fernández

Addressing the Nuances of Her Unconventional Pageant Impact

While Fernández's performance was overwhelmingly celebrated, it's fair to consider that some might view it primarily as a calculated "stunt" for attention within the pageant. This perspective might suggest that the shock value overshadowed genuine talent or that it was a strategic move to stand out. However, Fernández's own words strongly counter this notion. Her declaration that the song is "her job, her life" and her emphasis on metal being a "fundamental part" of her identity illustrate a deep-seated passion, not a fleeting attempt at viral fame. The extensive vocal training she undergoes further solidifies her commitment, indicating that this is a serious pursuit, not a casual dabble for novelty.

Another point of discussion could be whether death metal, being a niche genre, truly resonates with the broader, diverse audience of a beauty pageant. One might argue that the sheer volume and aggressive style could alienate some viewers accustomed to more conventional performances. Yet, the resounding standing ovation and her advancement to the finals speak volumes. The positive reaction from judges and audience members, many of whom likely had no prior exposure to death metal, suggests that the authenticity, power, and sheer talent on display transcended genre preferences. It highlights that an honest, passionate performance can captivate any crowd, regardless of their usual musical tastes.

Example: Imagine a seasoned pageant attendee, perhaps an older woman who has faithfully watched these competitions for decades, always appreciating the traditional ballet or opera. When Ignacia's growls first hit, she might have gasped, perhaps even clutched her pearls. But as the performance continued, the raw power and undeniable skill, combined with the sheer confidence and joy radiating from Ignacia, slowly convert her initial surprise into respect, then admiration, culminating in her rising to her feet, applauding harder than anyone. That's the kind of unexpected connection Ignacia forged.

The Broader Implications for Pageants and Heavy Music Culture

Ignacia Fernández's moment on the Miss World Chile stage is more than just a viral video; it’s a significant cultural marker. It contributes to a growing trend of "metal in the mainstream," challenging preconceived notions about who listens to and performs heavy music. It dismantles the rigid, often outdated stereotypes associated with beauty pageants, demonstrating that the definition of beauty and talent is far more expansive and inclusive than previously allowed. Her performance essentially screamed, "You can be glamorous and guttural, elegant and extreme, beautiful and brutal."

This incident also underscores the increasing demand for authenticity in public figures. In an age saturated with curated images, someone who genuinely "shows myself as I am" stands out and resonates powerfully. Ignacia's journey from a model to a death metal vocalist and now a pageant finalist encapsulates a modern spirit of embracing all facets of one's identity, regardless of how seemingly contradictory they might appear. Her success on this unconventional path is an inspiration, urging others to defy expectations and celebrate their unique passions. It's a reminder that true beauty lies in the courage to be oneself, fully and fearlessly.

Practical Takeaways for Embracing Your Unique Path

• Authenticity Wins: Ignacia’s success highlights that being true to yourself, even in unconventional settings, can create powerful connections and earn genuine respect.
• Passion Drives Impact: When you bring genuine passion to any endeavor, it can transcend expectations and captivate audiences regardless of their initial biases.
• Challenge Stereotypes: Don't be afraid to break molds. Your unique blend of interests and talents can redefine boundaries and inspire others.
• Discipline Matters: Whether it's extreme vocals or any demanding skill, consistent practice and professional care are crucial for sustained success and excellence.
• Embrace the Unexpected: Sometimes, the most memorable and impactful moments come from daring to do something entirely different.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ignacia Fernández's Performance When is the Miss World Chile 2025 final? The grand final is scheduled for Sunday, November 9th. What genre of music does Ignacia Fernández's band, Decessus, play? Decessus is a Chilean progressive death metal band. How does Ignacia Fernández protect her voice for death metal vocals? She studies extensively, works with an ENT specialist and a speech therapist, and performs 15-30 minute vocal warm-ups before shows. Did Ignacia Fernández advance to the next round of Miss World Chile? Yes, her performance earned her a spot among the top 20 contestants, advancing her to the final. Sources

• Blabbermouth, "MISS WORLD CHILE Semifinalist Stuns Judges By Performing A Song From Her Own Death Metal Band", November 6, 2025.
• syracuse.com, "Miss World Chile semifinalist stuns judges by performing a song from her own death metal band", By Geoff Herbert, November 7, 2025.
• VICE, "MISS WORLD CHILE Semifinalist Stuns Judges By Performing A Song From Her Own Death Metal Band", November 7, 2025.
• Consequence, "Miss World Chile Contestant Stuns Judges with Death Metal Performance: Watch", By Eddie Fu, November 7, 2025.
• ¡HOLA!, "Miss World Chile contestant stuns judges with unexpected talent – her death metal vocals", By Maria Loreto, November 6, 2025.
• Metal Hammer, "Miss World Chile contestant stuns the world by singing death metal during competition semifinal", November 6, 2025.
• iHeartRadio, "This Miss World Chile Finalist is in a Death Metal Band [VIDEO]", By Hayley St. John, November 7, 2025.