A little over a year ago, Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, most commonly known as Bad Bunny, released his critically acclaimed album “nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana.” With features such as Young Miko, Eladio Carrion, Mora, Feid, Arcangel, etc., the album, like the rest of his discography, has become a big component of modern reggaeton.
In early January 2025, the Puerto Rican rapper made a new addition to his catalogue: “DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS”, a testament of resistance in the eyes of modern American imperialism. The album does not only explore new musical limits for the rapper but also amplifies the voices in the nation which refuse to be forgotten.
Some highlights from the album are “DtMF,” “BAILE INoLVIDABLE,” “NUEVAYol,” and “EL CLúB.” Nostalgia, vulnerability, and yearning are present in each song, making listeners deeply resonate with its lyrics despite not sharing the same experiences as the rapper.
Every song is accompanied by a visualizer with a brief history of certain aspects of the island. From the origins of the flag, the creation of modern reggaeton, independence, to the origin of the Puerto Rican identity, Martinez Ocasio wants his audience to understand and envy his Puerto Rican heritage. His appreciation for the country is immense, so much that he went as far as announcing a residency at “El Choli” in San Juan. The residency will last three months and, according to its website, will only allow entry to Puerto Rican residents for its first few shows.
Opposite to his previous albums, “DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS” feels more authentic, “Oh, I love it. It’s a great album. It’s his most Puerto Rican album and has so much sentimental value,” said senior Lauren Dotson. Although it is weird to understand how Martinez Ocasio managed to incorporate such an intangible idea, such as culture, into the album, listeners worldwide agree on his successful embellishment of traditional Puerto Rican culture into it. “I really liked the emotion he put into it, the culture,” said senior Felipe Costa. “I love when he implements the culture into his music, like debí tirar más fotos es facts.”
Alongside the album, Martinez Ocasio released a short film named after the album. In it, an elderly man struggles to adapt to gentrified Puerto Rico. Through cashless cafes, vegan food, and language barriers, Martinez Ocasio sought to highlight the struggles of the everyday Puerto Rican and the nation’s refusal to be erased. His own words of “seguimos aqui” emphasize the strong bond between Puerto Rico and its inhabitants. The rapper’s incorporation of traditional Boricua sound, such as mambo, invites listeners to enjoy the culture while affirming that Puerto Rico will stand strong despite the hardships the country undergoes.
Martinez Ocasio remains loudly proud of his roots despite the overwhelming fame he has received in the past years. His work stands as an unapologetic declaration of love and respect for his people and his homeland, reflecting the spirit of resistance in Puerto Rico. “DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS” is not just an album; it’s a cultural statement, openly reaffirming Puerto Rico’s refusal to be erased. Because of this, it comes as no surprise that Bad Bunny has consistently remained one of The Village School’s students’ favorite artists throughout the years.
