Latin music king Bad Bunny's passion for Puerto Rico and his commitment to the island are well known. El Conejo hasn't been shy when sharing his disappointment with the government or the utility companies (especially electricity), or even participating in protests.
However, nobody expected to see the Puerto Rican artist, usually known for his laid-back and vibrant demeanor, losing control and fighting back tears when talking about the struggles that the Puerto Rican people are facing at the moment.
The reggaetón superstar broke down as he discussed the dire political and social issues facing his homeland. The anguish in his voice was unmistakable as he shared the frustration he feels when tourists travel to Puerto Rico attracted by its music and his fans around the world enjoying Latin music "without knowing what's really going on." In that context, he urged younger generation to take charge of their future by registering to vote in the upcoming general elections.
In a rare, candid interview on the YouTube podcast "El Tony pregunta," streamed on September 2, Bad Bunny went beyond his music—although he did say there are more songs coming—and used the platform to voice deep concerns about Puerto Rico's future, advocating for change and encouraging the island's youth to register with the State Election Commission (CEE).
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His plea wasn't just a call to action; it was a heartfelt, almost desperate cry for a better tomorrow for the island he so dearly loves. "I really care about Puerto Rico, and I don't know if it's the weight of it all...Man, I am going cry and everything. Well, I am crying," he admitted, as he covered his face to hide the tears.
Breathing hard, with his face wet and his eyes brimming, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, Bad Bunny's real name, added: "going out there and giving it my all, not just for myself, but always to represent. Knowing there are people around the world, in Japan, in Germany, who know about Puerto Rico because of my music, because of other artists, because of salsa, because of our culture, because of our people. Tourists come here and say, 'Wow, how beautiful,' but they leave without knowing what happens here, without knowing the suffering of those who live here."
Benito emphasized the power of the youth in Puerto Rico to steer the nation toward a new path by voting in the upcoming general elections on November 5. "Yes, it's good to denounce things on social media; it's good to take to the streets to protest, to make ourselves felt as a people. But I believe the biggest protest is going out to vote on November 5 against the people who have led us to this mess," he stated.
The reggaeton star didn't hold back, speaking candidly about his disdain for politics while simultaneously defending his right to voice his opinions on public officials elected by the people. "I don't want to talk about politics ever because it's crap. I don't want to get involved... I'm speaking like any other Puerto Rican who wants to express themselves about the situation in the country where I live," he said. "I continue to be myself. I'm not getting into politics. Politics gets into my life because politics affects my country, it affects Puerto Rico," he added, his frustration palpable.
Bad Bunny also reminded listeners of his active participation in the 2019 protests that led to the resignation of then-governor Ricardo Rosselló. He made it clear that this spirit of resistance needs to continue at the ballot box, stating, "Ricky had to go, and now it's time for more to follow on November 5."
Benito also shared is dream for his beloved Isla del Encanto: "I want my people to live happy here." He also revealed that he wants to have kids and "would love to send them to a public school. But to what school?" he added, reflecting about the quality of public education.
Originally published in Latin Times.
