Christopher Vélez × NHTSA

Latin pop artist Christopher Vélez is partnering with NHTSA for a storytelling campaign targeting young male Spanish speakers to spread awareness that driving high leads to real-world consequences.

Maneja High, Recibe un DUI.

Christopher Vélez shares NHTSA’s message about the dangers and consequences of impaired driving, reinforcing that a sober ride is the only safe way home.

Creative that Drives KPIs

This NHTSA Impaired Driving Prevention campaign focuses on driving brand awareness and engagement during its summer Labor Day flight through strategic social and YouTube video placements.

Social & YouTube Videos

• "La Llorona": Draws on the traditional Latino folklore legend of La Llorona (the Weeping Woman) to present a serious warning from a grandmother about the dangers of driving high. A young man's decision to ignore her is met with mysterious, suspenseful moments that ultimately culminate in a real-world law enforcement stop, demonstrating that the true hazard is a DUI rather than a mythical figure.

• "La Llorona" (Short Cutdown): A fast-paced, 15-second condensed iteration of the primary La Llorona narrative focusing directly on the core warning and legal consequences.

• "Taco Craving": Uses a relatable, late-night food craving to illustrate how a peer group can intervene before an impaired friend drives. When a young man prepares to drive after smoking marijuana, his friends remind him that the risk of a DUI isn't worth it, pivoting to food delivery as an easy, safe solution.

• "GRWM (Get Ready With Me)": Styled in a modern, social-media-forward "Get Ready With Me" vlog format. The narrative follows a young man prepping for a night out after using marijuana, until the artist steps in to remind him of the consequences of driving high, prompting a responsible choice.

Get to Know Christopher Vélez

Christopher Vélez is a chart-topping Ecuadorian-American singer and performer who first captured international audiences as an original member of the multi-platinum Latin boy band CNCO. Born in New Jersey and raised in Loja, Ecuador, Vélez moved back to the United States at age 18 to support his family, working various jobs (including shining shoes) before auditioning for the inaugural season of the reality singing competition, La Banda. His powerful vocals and undeniable charisma made him a fan favorite, leading to his victory on the show and his placement as the very first member of CNCO, a group heavily championed by Simon Cowell and Ricky Martin.

Christopher Vélez is known for his influence in the Hispanic community, making him a fitting choice for NHTSA's campaign focusing on reach within younger demographics. His youthful appeal and clean lifestyle resonate well with audiences that value community and social responsibility, aligning with NHTSA's mission to promote safe and aware driving.

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