Potara Bad Bunny's latest single, "Una Velita," reflects his deep connection to Puerto Rico and serves as a powerful tribute to the island’s ongoing struggles, especially in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Released in September 2024 to mark the seventh anniversary of the devastating hurricane, the song resonates with themes of resilience, political critique, and the fight for justice.
"Una Velita" stands apart from Bad Bunny's typically upbeat reggaeton hits, adopting a more somber tone that honors the victims of Hurricane Maria and condemns the political mismanagement that exacerbated the disaster's impact. In his lyrics, Bad Bunny mourns the thousands of lives lost due to governmental failures, declaring, "There were five thousand that they let die, and we will never forget that." The song poignantly addresses how, despite years passing, much of Puerto Rico's infrastructure remains in ruins, with many communities still struggling to rebuild.
The political dimension of the song is also significant. Bad Bunny’s lyrics implicitly criticize the New Progressive Party (NPP), which governs Puerto Rico and is symbolized by a palm tree. He describes this palm tree as something that will eventually be "knocked down," a metaphor for dismantling the political forces that have neglected the island’s recovery. By referencing the ongoing gubernatorial elections, Bad Bunny subtly urges Puerto Ricans to take action and demand better leadership. This message ties into his broader history of political activism, which has included encouraging voter participation and holding Puerto Rico's leadership accountable.
Musically, "Una Velita" incorporates folkloric elements from Puerto Rican culture, blending them with modern production techniques. The song was produced by Tainy and La Paciencia, frequent collaborators of Bad Bunny, adding depth to the emotional weight of the track. The accompanying visualizer shows Bad Bunny lighting a candle, symbolizing a prayer for Puerto Rico’s healing and a call for solidarity among its people. This image reflects a shared mourning and a hope for a brighter future.
The timing of the song's release also plays an important role in its impact. Coming as a surprise drop, "Una Velita" reasserts Bad Bunny's role not only as a global music icon but also as a vocal advocate for Puerto Rico. In the past, he has used his platform to promote social and political awareness, encouraging Puerto Ricans to vote and calling out corruption. With this latest release, he continues that mission, reminding his audience of the ongoing crises that have yet to be resolved.
Ultimately, "Una Velita" is a deeply personal and socially conscious song that merges Bad Bunny’s artistic prowess with his passion for Puerto Rico’s future. It’s not just a musical tribute; it's a rallying cry for justice and reform, delivered through one of the most influential voices in Latin music today.