News Page

Main Content

Puerto Ricans hope for change as Bad Bunny sings about the island's turmoil, identity

ABC News's profile
Original Story by ABC News
July 12, 2025
Puerto Ricans hope for change as Bad Bunny sings about the island's turmoil, identity

Context:

Bad Bunny's latest album, 'DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS,' has ignited global discussions about Puerto Rico's cultural identity and socio-political struggles. The album and its accompanying concerts have highlighted issues such as gentrification, economic challenges, and the island's colonial status, resonating deeply with both locals and the diaspora. The artist's use of traditional music forms like bomba and plena has sparked renewed interest in these cultural expressions, with increased demand for music classes. The impact of the album extends beyond music, with a significant boost in tourism and a focus on environmental awareness, exemplified by the attention on the endangered Puerto Rican crested toad. Bad Bunny's efforts have opened a platform for Puerto Ricans to voice their concerns and aspirations, potentially influencing political discourse and cultural preservation efforts.

Dive Deeper:

  • Bad Bunny's album 'DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS' addresses critical issues facing Puerto Rico, such as its colonial status, economic hardships, and cultural erosion, sparking a worldwide conversation and raising awareness about the island's struggles.

  • The lyrics and themes of the album resonate with Puerto Ricans, particularly as they touch on the exodus of residents due to economic pressures and the impact of U.S. mainland migration on local identity and resources.

  • The artist's incorporation of traditional Puerto Rican music genres like bomba and plena has revived interest and participation in these cultural practices, with many seeking to learn about their origins and significance.

  • The album's release coincides with a series of concerts that have significantly boosted tourism, with tens of thousands of hotel nights booked and substantial economic benefits projected for the local economy.

  • The album's influence extends to environmental awareness, as evidenced by the renewed interest in the Puerto Rican crested toad, highlighting the broader socio-cultural and environmental context of the island.

  • Bad Bunny's concerts serve as a platform for Puerto Ricans to express their resistance to gentrification and displacement, with symbolic performances that resonate deeply with audiences.

  • Educational institutions like Princeton and Yale have recognized the cultural impact of Bad Bunny's work, incorporating it into their curricula and acknowledging its significance in contemporary cultural discourse.

Latest Entertainment

Related Stories