Bad Bunny’s Impactful Super Bowl Performance Carries Messages of Unity and Self-Belief

During Super Bowl 60, a mesmerizing performance unfolded as dozens of violinists emerged from thick sugar cane fields, setting the stage for Bad Bunny’s poignant message in Spanish. The renowned artist, known offstage as Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, shared his journey to success with an uplifting note, encouraging everyone to believe in themselves. He asserted, “If I’m here at Super Bowl 60, it’s because I never stopped believing in myself,” urging others to recognize their worth and potential.

The evening was further illuminated by star-studded appearances, including a special salsa rendition of “Die With A Smile” by Lady Gaga and an emotional interpretation of “Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii” by Ricky Martin. Notable personalities, such as actors Jessica Alba and Pedro Pascal, influencer Alix Earle, and singers Karol G and Cardi B, gracefully joined the scene at the “casita,” mingling behind dynamic dancers.

In a heartfelt tribute to salsa, Bad Bunny performed “Baile Inolvidable” and “NUEVA YoL,” intertwining the classics of salsa with his contemporary hits. The latter piece creatively sampled the renowned salsa anthem “Un Verano en Nueva York” by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, alongside a significant appearance by “Toñita,” recognized for managing the last Puerto Rican social club in Brooklyn. For “El Apagón,” Bad Bunny compellingly climbed a malfunctioning electric pole, singing about Puerto Rico’s power crisis following Hurricane Maria in 2017.

The performance concluded with songs like “CAFé CON RON” and “DtMF,” as Bad Bunny delivered a unifying message: “God Bless America.” In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, dancers brandished flags from numerous countries across North, Central, and South America, reflecting the theme of unity.

Bad Bunny, who is no stranger to the Super Bowl stage, made a prominent appearance in 2020 alongside Shakira and Jennifer Lopez, where he played a significant role in elevating Latin music’s profile on a global scale. His latest performance at the Super Bowl signifies a monumental evolution, underscoring his influence as a voice of resistance and cultural significance within the Latino community in the United States.

The backdrop to this performance features a contrast of cultural and political elements, particularly as the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration policies continue to impact Latino communities. The recent death of two U.S. citizens during ICE operations intensified the demand for immigration reform. Bad Bunny has long been vocal on such matters, decrying the U.S. government’s mishandling of Hurricane Maria’s aftermath and denouncing violence against marginalized communities in Puerto Rico.

The NFL stood firm in its selection of Bad Bunny, with Commissioner Roger Goodell underscoring the intent for the halftime show to “unite people.” Reports also highlighted the absence of ICE operations at the event, although protestors gathered outside the stadium to express their discontent. Amidst the spectacle, Turning Point USA hosted an alternate show featuring country and rock artists, offering a varied cultural perspective.

Amidst political commentary, former President Donald Trump labeled Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl participation as regrettable, intensely criticizing the performance on social media. But the event concluded with a memorable closing image of Bad Bunny holding a football inscribed with “Together we are America,” accompanied by a fireworks display of the Puerto Rican flag. A jumbotron boldly conveyed, “The only thing more powerful than hate is love,” closing the performance with a resonant message of solidarity and hope.

Nicole Acevedo is a news reporter for NBC News.