Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny (Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio) is the headliner for the Super Bowl halftime show. And this announcement instantly sparked discussion--discussion that I would like to think will come to an end when Bad Bunny's performance speaks for itself. Afterall, music has the power to bring people together. It’s corny, but it’s true! You don’t have to speak the same language or share the same culture to be able to understand and feel the emotions of a song. My Spanish skills are nearly non-existent, but I am still going to be jamming during “Benito Bowl”.
For those unfamiliar with the music of Bad Bunny, I got you. I curated a reading list that pairs Bad Bunny songs with books from Latinx authors with similar themes or vibes. This reading list/playlist highlights songs that have defined Bad Bunny as an artist and acts as a Bad Bunny 101 for new fans.
DtMf
DtMf (Debí Tirar Más Fotos) or in English, I should have taken more photos, captures that human emotion of regret and nostalgia. Pair this song with Xochitl Gonzalez’s Anita De Monte Laughs, opens a new window a book that demands to be remembered.
BAILE INoLVIDABLE
This song is a story of an unforgettable love, sung with passion and yearning. It’s an interesting mix of melancholic lyrics with music that makes you want to dance. So, if you see me alone and sad, after reading This Is the Only Kingdom by Jaquira Díaz don’t talk to me, I just need to salsa away my emotions.
Monaco
Bad Bunny’s Monaco is about being at the top of his game and living his best life. A life that his haters know nothing about. Be a class above the haters and read The Taste of Sugar by Marisel Vera.
NUEVAYoL
NUEVAYoL is Bad Bunny’s love letter to Puerto Rican pride and life in New York City. It explores the complexities of migration and the joys found in your heritage and culture. Read My Train Leaves at Three by Natalie Guerrero to explore the dreams and realities of living in NYC.
Tití Me Preguntó
When his aunt asked after his love life, Bad Bunny tells his Tití it’s going to be a while before he’s settling down. Like Bad Bunny, El Rico from Takes One to Know One by Lissette Decos is an unbuttoned shirt wearing reggaeton artist that guards himself from heartbreak.
Ojitos Lindos
All the bad things are forgotten when you look into the eyes of the one you love. Ojitos Lindos is about the beauty and joy found in love. This song requires a happily-ever after ending, like the ones found in Natalie Caña’s Vega Family Love Stories. Start with A Proposal They Can’t Refuse.
Después de la Playa
In a homage to island life, Bad Bunny ponders where do we go after the beach. Después de la Playa is as carefree as the songs by Jimmy Buffett. Less carefree is Lauren E. Rico’s After the Ocean, but this thriller makes a great beach read.
Dákiti
Dákiti is a catchy futuristic reggaeton inspired song, that has had people speculating if the name comes from a specific beach or club in Puerto Rico. No matter the origins, it’s a lush fantasy, much like Rosália Rodrigo’s Beasts of Carnaval.
Callaíta
Bad Bunny sings about Callaíta, a shy young woman that doesn’t hesitate to live life to her fullest, contrary to everyone’s expectations of her. Not satisfied with her life, Madi Ramírez looks for more in Love of My Lives by Yamile Saied Méndez.
I hope that this playlist/ reading list inspired you to give Bad Bunny a listen or at the very least add some new books to your TBR.
Check out more of Bad Bunny’s music on Freegal. Listen for FREE with your library card!
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