Bad Bunny - “LA MuDANZA”

The song opens with an intimate, almost nostalgic narrative, introducing us to Benito, affectionately called ‘Tito.’ As the oldest of six, Tito’s life in Puerto Rico is portrayed through the lens of everyday experiences — family, love, and hard work. In a chance encounter helping Tonito move, he meets Lysi, his future wife, and together they build a life, eventually having a child. This intro establishes an emotional core, setting the stage for Bad Bunny’s broader message: an undying love for his homeland and its people. He goes on to congratulate Tito and Lysi for raising their child and takes a moment to personally thank his own parents for bringing him into the world in Puerto Rico — a statement of pride and gratitude that reinforces his deep-rooted connection to the island.

In the first verse, Bad Bunny asserts his position as a representative of the new generation, crediting his upbringing and connection to the older generation for shaping his artistry. He gives a nod to legendary Puerto Rican musicians Willie Colón and Cultura Profética, showing his respect for the pioneers of his island’s rich musical history. Additionally, he highlights his role in taking Puerto Rican slang and culture to a global audience, rejecting any criticism from outsiders. One of the most striking lines references La Ley de la Mordaza, a repressive law that once criminalised the display of the Puerto Rican flag in an attempt to suppress the independence movement. By recalling this painful history, Bad Bunny underscores his defiance, carrying the flag proudly wherever he goes as a symbol of resistance and identity.

The second verse continues with references to important Puerto Rican figures such as Eugenio María de Hostos, a passionate advocate for Puerto Rico’s independence. Bad Bunny poignantly expresses his desire to be remembered, with the original light blue flag adorning his casket, linking his legacy to the day Hostos’ remains are finally returned to the island — a wish that has yet to be fulfilled, as his body remains in the Dominican Republic until Puerto Rico gains true freedom, but he hopes that on the day Hostos’ remains are returned, that someone there will still be playing his songs. The verse also pays tribute to boxing legends Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto, likening his status and love from the people of Puerto Rico to theirs. He closes by affirming that despite his immense wealth, he will never abandon his ‘barrio,’ a direct statement against the forces of gentrification and displacement threatening his community.

Visually, LA MuDANZA delivers a stunning, deeply symbolic representation of Puerto Rico’s past and present. The video begins with a series of polaroid snapshots capturing Tito’s life, immersing viewers in his world. We then follow him as he drives through Puerto Rico with his newborn, reinforcing themes of family and continuity. The most striking sequence features Bad Bunny running through the streets, clutching the original light blue Puerto Rican flag while being chased by police — a clear reference to the historical persecution of pro-independence advocates. He narrowly escapes, thanks to fellow Puerto Ricans who come to his aid, demonstrating unity and collective resistance.

The final moments of the video weave together scenes of musicians passionately playing the instrumentals, black-and-white footage of Puerto Rico’s struggle for independence, and a mural reading, ‘No me quiero ir de aquí’ (I don’t want to leave here). The outro echoes this sentiment with a powerful refrain: “No one'll kick me out of here, I'm not going anywhere / Tell them this is my home where my grandfather was born.” These words, paired with the visuals, serve as a resounding declaration: Puerto Rico belongs to its people, and no amount of external pressure, economic exploitation, or cultural suppression will erase that truth.

Bad Bunny has never shied away from addressing the socio-political realities of Puerto Rico, but LA MuDANZA feels especially personal. It is a love letter, a battle cry, and a historical lesson all in one. By weaving together his own experiences with those of past generations, he not only highlights Puerto Rico’s ongoing struggles but also celebrates the resilience, pride, and unbreakable spirit of its people. 

In an era where reggaeton and Latin music continue to dominate global charts, Bad Bunny ensures that Puerto Rico’s voice remains heard — not just in clubs or on streaming platforms, but in conversations about identity, resistance, and justice.