Bad Bunny’s Concert: Celebrating Resilience on Hurricane Maria’s Anniversary
By DÁNICA COTO, Associated Press
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — This past Saturday, fans of the global superstar Bad Bunny transformed the anniversary of Hurricane Maria into a remarkable celebration of resilience, unity, and cultural pride. Thousands gathered in San Juan, their collective voice echoing against the painful memories of the storm that struck the island eight years ago.
Bad Bunny, a symbol of Puerto Rican identity and passion, told the audience, “We’re not going to quit. The entire world is watching!” as he broadcasted his final concert of the year in Puerto Rico to viewers across the globe via platforms like Amazon Music, Prime Video, and Twitch. The concert marked a historic 30-show residency that not only thrilled his fans but also served as a love letter to the enchanting island of Puerto Rico.
A Tribute to Puerto Rico
This concert was more than just a musical performance; it embodied Bad Bunny’s deep connection to his roots. From the rooftop of a beautifully adorned Puerto Rican house at the venue, he raised his glass, embodying the spirit of camaraderie that defines the island’s culture. For Bad Bunny, it was essential to highlight not only the beauty of Puerto Rico but also the struggles of its people.
“It’s for you,” he emphasized, as the crowd erupted in cheers, glasses raised in unison—a powerful moment of community.
Facing the Shadows of Hurricane Maria
September 20 marked eight years since Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, leading to an estimated 2,975 deaths and long-lasting repercussions. The storm caused catastrophic damage to the island’s infrastructure, particularly the electric grid, which many communities were left without for up to a year. As reported by the U.S. Office of Inspector General, a staggering 92% of approved projects aimed at rebuilding this grid remain unfinished, leading to ongoing power outages that continue to infuriate locals.
While the shadows of the past loomed large, people like Marta Amaral, who attended the concert, expressed both the trauma and resilience shaped by these experiences. “We are still here, standing,” she said, highlighting the event’s dual nature of remembrance and celebration.
Star-Studded Surprise Guest
The excitement reached a fever pitch when Bad Bunny took the stage alongside Puerto Rican legends like Ñengo Flow and Jowell y Randy, creating an electrifying atmosphere that captivated the audience. But arguably, the show’s highlight came when renowned singer Marc Anthony made a surprise appearance, singing “Preciosa,” a song that pays homage to Puerto Rico’s beauty and spirit. The crowd swelled with emotion, echoing Anthony’s declaration: “Yo te quiero, Puerto Rico!”—a phrase that resonated with the deep affection held for the island.
The Pulse of Celebration
Even in the face of struggle, joy was palpable throughout the evening. Attendees adorned themselves with items like the vibrant flor de maga, Puerto Rico’s national flower, while many reminisced about their experiences during Hurricane Maria. For others like Darlene Mercado, who had just overcome personal health challenges and was celebrating her birthday, this concert was a chance to mark life’s milestones amid the trauma of the past.
Despite the upbeat mood, there were also heart-wrenching moments of longing. Thousands more were left outside the sold-out venue, desperately hoping to score tickets after enduring long online wait times. For them, the energy of the concert was both a unifying experience and a reminder of what they missed.
An Economic Catalyst
The significance of Bad Bunny’s concert extended beyond just music; it was an economic boon for Puerto Rico. Attracting around half a million attendees during the residency generated an estimated $733 million for the local economy, with many foreign visitors from the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Spain contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. The demographic skewed heavily female, with an average age of 33, signaling a strong following among younger generations.
An Emotional Experience for All
As the night wore on, the collective sentiment captured by Bad Bunny’s performance encapsulated not just resilience, but also a deep sense of identity among attendees. For many, Hurricane Maria profoundly affected their lives, making the concert a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles they face.
Bad Bunny’s appreciation for his fans was evident as he prepared to conclude the concert. “I’m going to miss you a lot. I’m going to miss this energy,” he expressed as attendees hugged and wiped away tears, reaffirming their bond amidst the shared memories of hardship.
As the crowd exited, the iconic cry of “Yo soy boricua!” filled the air, answered with “Pa’ que tú lo sepas!”—a traditional declaration of pride in their Puerto Rican heritage, encapsulating the essence of a night that was as much about remembrance as it was about celebration.