Bad Bunny’s “Debí Tirar Más Fotos”: A Love Letter to Puerto Rican Roots
Bad Bunny, the reggaetón juggernaut, is back with his sixth studio album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” and boy, is it a game-changer. Released on January 5, this album is more than just a collection of catchy tracks; it’s a heartfelt homage to Puerto Rico’s rich musical tapestry, intertwining the island’s history with its pressing sociopolitical realities. Forget the usual reggaetón intros filled with heavy synths and pounding bass—this opening track kicks off with a nostalgic salsa sample from the iconic “Un Verano En Nueva York” by El Gran Combo. Yeah, you read that right!
In a time when Puerto Rico is grappling with ongoing struggles from decades of colonization, corruption, and a dubious government leadership about to take office again, Bad Bunny (born Benito Antonio Martínez) understands the urgency of the narrative. He reflects on the theme of loss—not only love but also the agency and dreams many Puerto Ricans have seen wither away. While our beaches get polluted and lands are auctioned off to crypto moguls, Martínez captures this zeitgeist with raw honesty.
The album takes listeners through a whirlwind of 17 tracks that highlight genres like bomba, plena, and bachata, while also spotlighting emerging voices like RaiNao on the catchy “Perfumito Nuevo.” What’s truly impressive is how Bad Bunny weaves the sounds of the past into the fabric of Puerto Rico’s musical future, ensuring traditional rhythms remain relevant in a modern context. With tracks like “Baile Inolvidable,” he harmonizes his signature urbano sound over classic salsa instrumentation, making it clear he’s carrying the torch for future generations.
Critics have noted a “back to the roots” movement emerging in Puerto Rico, with artists revitalizing traditional sounds; trends that Bad Bunny not only embraces but actively promotes through collaboration with rising talents. It seems with every beat and lyric, he’s not just making music, but also making a powerful statement: respect the roots and cultivate the future. Just as other contemporary artists like Rauw Alejandro are following suit, Bad Bunny’s album is a clarion call for a vibrant and resilient Puerto Rican identity.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, Billboard, Rolling Stone
