Bad Bunny’s Superbowl Halftime show was a series of references wrapped up in fun music, creative choreography, and colorful set pieces. These references relate to Hispanic culture, the singer’s Puerto Rican heritage, and an overall message of strength and unity. The most overt references to specific Hispanic/Puerto Rican experiences may be completely undetectable for someone who has had no exposure to those customs. However, each creative decision has a deep and specific meaning. Below are some of the most distinct references made by Bad Bunny and his creative team during his Superbowl halftime show, explained and analyzed to show their significance.
The Powerlines
Following Hurricane Maria, electric company Luma was hired to revitalize electricity in Puerto Rico. However, due to negligence that is currently being addressed in court by the Puerto Rican government, Luma’s actions led to blackouts being commonplace. The powerlines are a reference to this struggle, and a callout of exploitation and malpractice within the Luma company.
The Jersey
Another reference to Hurricane Maria, Bad Bunny’s jersey had the number 64 on the back, which was the number of deaths from the hurricane that were originally reported to the media. However, this was an understatement that was created to downplay the tragedy, as the real number is somewhere between 2,900 and 4,700.
The Flag
Although the official Puerto Rico flag is dark blue with red stripes, the decision to wave the light blue flag was significant. This flag represents the Puerto Rican independence movement of the early 1900s. In the late 1940s, this flag was criminalized under punishment of death, but this law was repealed in 1952. The flag has a message of anti-suppression and is a symbol of autonomy and Puerto Rican pride.
The Casita
A set used for many songs, the casita is modeled after traditional Puerto Rican houses, popular in low-income rural areas as opposed to the infrastructure created for tourists and wealthy landowners in the cities. It’s seen, in the performance, as a party location where celebrities and dancers enjoy the music. This communicates Bad Bunny’s condemnation of gentrification in Puerto Rico and his belief in the significance and excellence of Puerto Rican traditions and customs that are removed from colonial influence.
