Puerto Rican superstar Terrible Bunny (Benito Martínez Ocasio) made Grammy history when his album Debí Tirar Más Fotos was named Album of the Year, the first fully Spanish‑language record to win the prize at the main Grammy ceremony.
Why the win matters
Born in Vega Baja, a town of 56,858 residents, Bad Bunny has carried the aspirations of his hometown and the broader Puerto Rican diaspora onto the world stage. The accolade resonates beyond music, symbolising cultural pride for an island whose main landmass measures only 100 × 35 miles.
The Grammy moment also highlighted the island’s ongoing challenges. Bad Bunny’s “love letter” album references the 4,632 people forced to leave Vega Baja due to colonial pressures and the estimated 400,000 displaced Puerto Ricans over the past decade.
For many Puerto Ricans, the triumph feels personal. As one resident reflected, the artist’s success is a tribute to ancestors and a reminder that “the world is watching and waiting.”
Bad Bunny’s musical journey
From early tracks like “Tu No Vives Así” (2016) to recent releases such as “NUEVAYol” (2025), Bad Bunny has built a catalog that blends trap, reggaetón, and traditional Boricua sounds. Hits like “Soy Peor,” “Yo Perreo Sola,” and “Dákiti” have amassed billions of views, underscoring his worldwide impact.
His recent projects continue to explore Puerto Rican roots, with collaborations featuring Arcángel, El Alfa, and Kendo Kaponi, and seasonal songs like “Cantares De Navidad” that honor local traditions.
Fans are already gearing up for the “Benito Bowl,” the nickname for this Sunday’s Super Bowl LX, where Bad Bunny is expected to headline the halftime show.
Enjoy the upcoming Super Bowl LX performance here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What album earned Bad Bunny the Grammy for Album of the Year?
The award was given to Bad Bunny’s album Debí Tirar Más Fotos, a fully Spanish‑language record.
Why is this Grammy win considered historic?
It’s the first time a Spanish‑language album has won Album of the Year at the main Grammy ceremony, highlighting Puerto Rican culture on a global platform.
How many people live in Bad Bunny’s hometown of Vega Baja?
Vega Baja’s population is reported as 56,858 residents.
What do you think this milestone means for the future of Spanish‑language music on the world stage?
