If you’re coming to the island or already are on the island for the Bad Bunny residency in Puerto Rico here’s some information that will cue you into the different symbols and references he makes in his visuals and songs.
Another first for Bad Bunny and Puerto Rico
The Bad Bunny’s Residency in Puerto Rico marks a first for the Island. Similar to other artists residencies in Las Vegas, the Bunny will offer 30 sold out shows at the Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan. What makes this venue appropriate for BB’s shows is that it’s named for a beloved Puerto Rican comedian that is part of our culture. Agrelot was a popular TV and radio personality from the 60’s to the 90’s. His most most loved character was “Don Cholito”. Based on a mountain farmer or “jíbaro”, he created many popular sayings that are still used. In his honor all locals refer to the stadium as “el Choliseo” or “El Choli” instead of “el Coliseo” which is the correct term.
Where did that background come from?
The graphics that are being used to promote “Yo no me quiero ir de aquí” (I don’t want to leave here”) concert series are nostalgic reminders of traditional Puerto Rican cultural elements. The background is representative of the “baldosas hidraúlicas” or concrete tiles that were popular in houses in the first half of the 20th century.
The geometric patterns are based on the “medujar” architectural style that began in medieval Spain. This style combined both Christian and Muslim elements and was a reflection of the integration of both worlds during that period. These tiles were first made in Barcelona and they were also produced on the island.
You can still see examples of these tiles in the older buildings in Santurce. A couple of the bars on Cerra Street feature them as well as a couple of establishments in Loíza street and La Placita. (Asere Cuban restaurant). This is a good excuse to go bar hopping and do some “cultural research” aided by some fine rum and food.
The hand lettering the spells out “Yo no me quiero ir de aquí” is another cultural cue. Before vinyl and plastic illuminated signs, all store names, taxi cabs and even trucks featured this style. It was also popular on the “públicos” or private vans that provided “public” transportation in many small towns and cities. Their nickname was “pisicorre” that roughly translates as “step on it and go”. Riding them was a very colorful experience where you could talk and gossip with all the regulars on your way to work or school.
Coffee is a Bad Bunny favorite
Other elements are the coffee tree with red fruits ready to be picked. Puerto Rican coffee is among the best in the world and was once the preferred coffee of the Vatican. Make sure you try as many varieties of local coffee as possible. Bring some back to remember your stay on the Island.
The airplane is another interesting feature of the artwork. To a local, the plane represents leaving the island in search of better opportunities but also knowing that you’re going to greatly miss your culture. A collector’s plate featuring the Choliseo and the Puerto Rican flag are also present in the main graphics.
The Debí tirar más fotos album has been called a love letter from Bad Bunny to his island home. Once you arrive you’ll experience the warmth of the people and the music, sights, smells, flavors and sounds around you. This will give you a better understanding of why this album is full of feelings.
Take a Coffee Tour: https://placestogopr.com/central/agrotourism/
Concert website: https://nomequieroirdeaqui.com/
