Unpacking the history, colonialism, inclusivity, and monumental production of the superstar’s live music performance.
References
Bad Bunny‘s Superbowl halftime show was packed with cultural, political, and economic references, messaging, choreography, and legacy:
The Real Deals
According to Variety, the show’s authentic cultural references included an actual wedding, real vendors…
… and Ricky ‘Hawaii’ Martin:
“the fact that Benito brought Ricky Martin, who opened the doors for the latino stars to do the crossover & compete on the same level as the English speaking mega pop stars, to this stage, was a beautiful recognition of the role Ricky had played for almost 30 years ago so this moment could be even possible today. And in a way, a reparation.”
More in Luiz Fernando‘s original post:
A Hawaiian perspective, via Aja Dang:
Lady Gaga
“She steps into Bad Bunny’s world, adapting to his culture, his rhythm, his sound – not the other way around.” Why Lady Gaga’s surprise appearance was a significantly and affectionately subversive inclusion:
Behind the Scenes
More on the stage production, including how it was built in seven minutes:
Further Viewing
Elize Fleury presents the most satisfying analysis of Bad Bunny’s vocals:
“Nobody is more powerful than the united people.” Bad Bunny’s full one-hourLecture On Activism At Harvard (yes, with English subtitles):
A message which was also part of the discourse after Kendrick Lamar‘s own Super Bowl halftime show, which similarly signalled what were ultimately deemed to be revolutionary cosplay, and which bears repeating (the full thread is worth your time):