Benito Martinez Ocasio, famously known as Bad Bunny, is a Puerto Rican rapper who has gained tremendous fame over the years. Ocasio is anti-ICE and stated in an i-D Magazine interview in September that he is not having any shows in the United States because he feared for the safety of his fans due to the increase of Immigration, Custom and Enforcement raids. Recently, however, Benito announced on an Instagram post that he would be headlining the Super Bowl halftime show in February. Though many people were happy about this announcement, others were upset because he is anti-ICE and does not have any English songs. Turning Point USA even went as far to announce that they would be hosting their own halftime show called “All American Halftime Show” to protest Bad Bunny performing at the Super Bowl.
Bad Bunny as the halftime show performer was an amazing decision because of his popularity, and he helps spread awareness of social issues.
It is a bit ridiculous for Turning Point USA to host their own “All American” performance because Bad Bunny is the perfect representation for an American show. Bad Bunny was born in Puerto Rico, a United States territory, meaning Bad Bunny is a U.S. citizen. Even if Bad Bunny wasn’t a citizen, why would that make him an unfit choice as the Super Bowl’s halftime show performer? Secondly, one of the best qualities about the United States is how diverse it is. Bad Bunny is a representation of how people from the United States are not always going to look the same, speak the same or have the same culture.
Additionally, people were upset about Bad Bunny not having any English songs. Just because there is a language barrier. It is still possible to enjoy music that is in a different language. Bad Bunny has gone on many tours and has sold out a lot of his concerts. In 2022, Bad Bunny set a touring record selling over 2.6 million tickets in 54 stadiums in 18 counties.
His advocacy for many issues in his songs makes him another great choice as a performer. For example, Bad Bunny released a music video for his song “El Apagon” in 2022, which translates to “The Blackout.” In this music video, Bad Bunny includes interviews and news clips to help spread awareness about the frequent power outages in Puerto Rico.
Bad Bunny knows how to use his platform the right way and wants to give a voice to those who need help. He uses his talent to encourage others to speak up, which is why he deserves to perform at the upcoming Super Bowl — to continue to spread awareness on these issues.
