The Rise and Influence of Bad Bunny

Photo Credit: Bad Bunny’s Instagram

Puerto Rico is the homeland for famous reggaeton artist Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, also known by his stage name Bad Bunny. Bad Bunny is primarily known for his hit album “Un Verano Sin Ti '' that hit number one most played on Spotify 100, over other artists like Drake, Harry Styles, and the Weeknd.

Bad Bunny has become an enormous success since the release of his 2020 album “YHLQMDLG” with hit songs like “Safera and Si Veo a Tu Mama.” Now what makes Bad Bunny so iconic and influential?

For starters, Bad Bunny puts in a lot of dedication to his community in Puerto Rico and is constantly giving back to his people. In many of Bad Bunny’s songs he talks about the issues going on in Puerto Rico. The song “El Apagón” talks about the abuse that Puerto Rico goes through by the government. Even during his “World Hottest Tour” Benito’s team added QR codes to the concert bracelet, so that guests can scan them and help donate to organizations in Puerto Rico and those recovering from Hurricane Fiona on September 14, 2022.

Benito has done so much for the Latino community that Los Angeles City Councilmember Kevin de Leon honored him with his own official day which is October 1st. In honor of the singer’s “immense cultural impact to the Latino community across the City of L.A” (Kevin de Leon). Benito’s style and music videos break gender norms and show acceptance for all. He is all about protecting women and transgender lives.

Benito is all about being inclusive and encouraging the younger generation to speak up and stand out. He uses his music to express social issues going on in his country and does everything he can to raise awareness. When it comes to his concerts Benito loves to surprise his fans by bringing out special guests and letting them have their moment on stage such as Ivy Queen and Cardi B.

Benito will always be an amazing performer for all the dedication he puts into his music and community.

Clarissa Serrano is a senior at CSUN that is studying Journalism with an emphasis in Public Relations. Growing up reggaeton has been a part of her life, and represents her culture. Clarissa wants to pursue a career as a PR working in the Entertainment industry specifically in sports or music.