Bad Bunny, the Puerto Rican superstar, is making headlines again. Just a week after winning the Grammy for Album of the Year, he’s set to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show. This is a huge deal, as it places him in front of one of the biggest audiences possible. However, his selection has sparked both excitement and controversy.
Why did the NFL pick him? It’s simple—business. They’re keen to expand their reach into international markets, and Bad Bunny has a massive global following. Perry Johnson, a communications expert from USC, points out that controversial halftime shows often lead to higher ratings.
His performance comes amid heated political discourse. Some conservative figures reacted negatively to his selection, mainly because he sings in Spanish and has publicly criticized leaders like Donald Trump. Organizations like Turning Point USA even organized an alternative halftime show. Yet, the NFL stated that there would be no immigration enforcement present during the game, a relief for many fans.
How big is Bad Bunny on the global stage? According to AJ Ramos from YouTube, he’s a contemporary icon on par with legends like Elvis and Michael Jackson. He was the most-streamed artist on Spotify in 2025 and recently made history as the first artist to win a Grammy for an album sung primarily in Spanish. His concerts often sell out, and he even topped Apple Music in China, marking a significant milestone for Spanish-language music.
Bad Bunny’s significance to Puerto Ricans cannot be overstated. He embodies their pride and culture. In a recent interview, he stated that there’s no greater honor than being able to represent Puerto Rico. His music resonates with themes of love and resilience, reflecting the island’s spirit.
Life in Puerto Rico is tough, but its people find joy in community and culture. Family gatherings are common, full of food, swimming, and dance—reflecting that the essence of being Puerto Rican lies in love and mutual support.
I had the chance to attend Bad Bunny’s summer residency, and it was more than just a concert—it felt like a family reunion. He encourages fans to embrace their identity and love for their homeland. When asked why he hasn’t toured in the U.S. since 2020, he expressed concerns over deportations and the treatment of Latinos. His choice to focus on Puerto Rican and Latin American audiences shows his commitment to his roots.
Looking ahead to the Super Bowl, will he bring any surprise guests? That remains to be seen. He has collaborated with both Latin and mainstream American artists, making it likely he’ll want to appeal to a wide audience without forgetting his heritage.
If you’re eager to explore his music, here are three essential tracks to start with:
“Neverita” – A catchy song about young love, full of nostalgia and sweet summer vibes.
“El Apagón” – A politically charged anthem discussing Puerto Rico’s struggles, emphasizing resilience amid adversity.
“DtMF” – This track showcases his ability to convey complex emotions and hopes for the future.
Bad Bunny’s music is a powerful vehicle for expressing both personal and collective experiences. As he takes the stage at the Super Bowl, listeners can expect not just entertainment, but a potent representation of Puerto Rican culture.
For more on the Super Bowl’s lineup or to explore Bad Bunny’s journey, check out sources like Billboard or NPR.
