Bad Bunny's Historic Super Bowl Performance: A Personal Reflection

Ronald ÁvilaBBC Mundo
GettyGetty Images
On Sunday, Bad Bunny became the first artist to perform a Super Bowl half-time show entirely in Spanish

As a fellow Puerto Rican, I feel a deep connection to Bad Bunny, who has also had people remark that his Spanish can be unintelligible at times. We share a common history that includes working long hours in supermarkets packing groceries for customers—an experience that many Puerto Ricans can relate to.

Our origins define us; it's not just about packing groceries under the Caribbean sun. Bad Bunny's performance at the Super Bowl halftime show was a testament to the Puerto Rican experience, showcasing not just his musical talent but also cultural pride. He performed to an audience of 125 million, a historical moment as the first artist to do so entirely in Spanish. It was a celebration of our culture, featuring songs like 'Tití Me Preguntó' and 'Baile Inolvidable.'

The stage was set as a reflection of Puerto Rico itself, symbolizing its heritage through elements like sugarcane fields and El Morro. Bad Bunny’s set, complemented by the presence of Lady Gaga and other guest performers, echoed a message of unity and resilience within the Latino community.

Although he remains a controversial figure for some Puerto Ricans, many resonate with his lyrics that encapsulate our struggles, realities, and aspirations. His music acts as a mirror of our experiences growing up on the island, navigating a cultural identity within the larger context of the United States. It showcases not only the beauty of Puerto Rican Spanish but also a demand for recognition and respect as Puerto Ricans.

As Bad Bunny said through his performance, our culture is an essential part of who we are, a reflection of our daily struggles and triumphs. His contributions to music have indeed opened new doors, giving a voice not just to his own experiences but to those of all Puerto Ricans.