Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, became a vibrant epicenter of Puerto Rican culture and Latin music on , as Bad Bunny delivered a Super Bowl LXI Halftime Show that was as much a celebration of heritage as it was a high-energy performance. The Grammy-winning artist, fresh off a weekend of accolades, transformed the football field into a dynamic space that resonated with both a global audience and a deeply personal connection to his roots.
The 13-minute set, opening with the infectious energy of “Tití Me Preguntó,” immediately established a party atmosphere. But beyond the hits, Bad Bunny constructed a narrative, a cinematic journey that unfolded like a love story. The performance wasn’t simply a concert. it was an immersive experience, transporting viewers to a recreation of his hometown community in Puerto Rico. This wasn’t a subtle nod to his origins; it was a full-scale, meticulously crafted environment complete with familiar sights like a beauty salon, a piragua (shaved ice) vendor, and a domino game, all unfolding on the 50-yard line.
The artist, sporting an all-white ensemble, skillfully wove together a medley of his most popular tracks – “Eoo,” “BAILE INoLVIDABLE,” “El Apagón,” “CAFé CON RON,” “MONACO,” and “NUEVAYoL” – each song building on the previous, creating a seamless flow that kept the energy consistently high. The performance wasn’t just about showcasing his discography; it was about demonstrating the breadth and vibrancy of Latin music itself.
Adding to the spectacle, Bad Bunny resurrected “La Casita,” the intimate setting from his Puerto Rico residency, inviting a constellation of celebrities into the fold. Among those dancing and enjoying the performance were Alix Earle, Jessica Alba, Cardi B, Karol G, Pedro Pascal, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Young Miko, a testament to the artist’s widespread appeal and influence across various industries. The inclusion of these figures wasn’t merely a star-studded moment; it underscored the unifying power of music and culture.
Perhaps the most unexpected moment of the night came with the appearance of Lady Gaga. She delivered a salsa-infused rendition of her hit “Die With A Smile,” with Bad Bunny stepping in for Bruno Mars. The collaboration, while surprising to some, highlighted the shared respect and cross-genre appeal that both artists command. The performance demonstrated a willingness to blend styles and push boundaries, further solidifying the show’s message of inclusivity and celebration.
While the performance was overwhelmingly positive, some observers noted a surprising reaction from a segment of the audience. Reports from social media, including commentary on Reddit’s r/Fauxmoi, suggested that Lady Gaga’s appearance felt somewhat out of place for some viewers, with a preference for a more consistent focus on Puerto Rican or Latin artists throughout the entire set.
Bad Bunny concluded his performance with a powerful and symbolic gesture. He subtly altered the familiar phrase “God Bless America,” transforming it into a declaration of support for the entire American continent, accompanied by a procession of Latin American flags. This act, while seemingly simple, carried significant weight, representing a broader vision of unity and inclusivity that resonated deeply with many viewers.
The performance arrives at a moment when Latin music is experiencing unprecedented global success. Bad Bunny himself has been at the forefront of this wave, consistently breaking records and challenging industry norms. His selection as the Super Bowl Halftime performer was not only a recognition of his individual achievements but also a validation of the growing influence of Latin culture on the global stage.
Notably, the performance steered clear of overt political statements, despite Bad Bunny’s previous outspokenness on issues such as immigration and the policies of former President Donald Trump. He had previously used the Grammy Awards platform to critique Trump’s immigration policies, but the Super Bowl performance focused instead on a celebration of culture and community. This choice, while perhaps surprising to some, allowed the performance to remain broadly accessible and focused on a message of unity and joy.
The artist’s journey from Bayamon, Puerto Rico, to the Super Bowl stage is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and cultural pride. His performance on wasn’t just a halftime show; it was a statement – a vibrant, energetic, and deeply personal declaration of Latin identity and a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and unite people.
