4 Of The Most Powerful Latino Performances From 'The Passion'

The story of Jesus of Nazareth filled the streets of New Orleans Sunday night, as Fox's live musical event "The Passion" gave the biblical tale a modern-day twist.

While the crucifixion of the prodigal son of God was told via pop ballads and large-scale processions , which kicked off this year's Holy Week  on a musical note, Latinos were front and center as "Telenovela" star Jencarlos Canela took on the lead role of Jesus and bachatero Prince Royce portrayed one of his 12 disciples, Peter. 

Here's a quick break down of some of these two Latin artists' most powerful performances from "The Passion." 

Note: If your childhood wasn't filled with Bible study or Easter TV specials retelling the story of Jesus every year... spoilers ahead.

The Moving Musical Prayer Jesus Sings As His Disciples Sleep

The son of God prays to the tune of Train's "Calling All Angels" as he comes to terms with the impending betrayal by one of his disciples, Judas (played by the scene-stealing Chris Daughtry), and his inevitable crucifixion.

And speaking of Daugthry, fans of the artist should not miss his brilliant rendition of Evanescence's "Bring Me To Life"  as his character contemplates his eventual betrayal of Jesus. 

The Kiss Of Judas

As city police come for him, Peter promises to remain loyal while Jesus assures him that, "before the rooster crows twice tonight, you will say three times you do not know me.” 

Judas identifies the son of God with a kiss of betrayal, and the two sing an emotional rendition of Imagine Dragon's "Demons" before they take Jesus away.

Peter Denies Jesus Three Times 

Peter walks away from where Jesus was taken into custody and begins a song of remorse to Hoobastank's "The Reason" -- along the way he denies Jesus three times. Ouch. 

One of the executive producers of "The Passion," Adam Anders, said the song choice was his wife's idea and it was “one of the songs we reinvented the least because it fits so perfectly.” 

Jesus Of Nazareth Rises

 After his trial and crucifixion -- orchestrated by Seal as Pontius Pilate, who sang a chilling rendition of the already haunting Gary Jules' hit "Mad World" -- Jesus resurrects with a message of unconditional love expressed through the aptly chosen Katy Perry hit song, "Unconditionally."