Latin

The Warning on Breakthrough Year Crowned with Latin Grammy Nomination: ‘Sometimes We Don’t Believe It!’

With its first Latin Grammy nomination, the Mexican rock trio The Warning crowns 2024 as a great year after several proven achievements. The group’s latest album, Keep Me Fed, consolidated the Villarreal Vélez sisters on the international scene; in addition, it managed to debut on multiple Billboard charts, and embarked on an ambitious tour through Europe and the U.S.

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Furthermore, Paulina Villarreal received the Drumeo Award for the best rock drummer, at only 22 years old.

“These achievements are the reaffirmation that as a Mexican I can also make a rock band and I can take it internationally,” Paulina says excitedly to Billboard Español. “It doesn’t have to stay only in my country, only in my community; I can explore new facets, meet new people, and I can have an international career. And for us to have achieved this, sometimes we don’t believe it!

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Their first Latin Grammy nomination, in the category of best rock song for the single “Qué Más Quieres”, represents a significant achievement in the history of the group –- also made up of vocalist and guitarist Daniela Villarreal and bassist Alejandra Villarreal — as it symbolizes the pride of singing in Spanish, their native language.

The Warning’s repertoire is mostly in English, their second language, since the band is originally from Monterrey, a city bordering the U.S.

“Singing in Spanish has always been fundamental to our musical and personal identity, and this nomination celebrates our dedication to keeping that connection with our roots alive,” Daniela says.

“Qué Más Quieres” was co-written by Anton Curtis Delost, Far and Crosses guitarist Shaun López, Kathryn Ostenberg, Mónica Vélez and The Warning. In it, the band captures the strength and energy that characterizes it.

The single is included on Keep Me Fed, The Warning’s fourth full-length album, recorded in Monterrey and released at the end of last June. In the words of the band’s vocalist: “It is the result of our rawest emotions and the most meaningful connections with the people we have met and worked with in recent years.”

With Keep Me Fed, The Warning has established itself on the international rock scene, debuting on a variety of Billboard charts, including No. 1 on Emerging Artists, No. 2 on Top Rock Albums, No. 4 on Top Hard Rock Albums and No. 6 on Top Album Sales. On sharing a rock band as sisters, Daniela says that it has been a pleasant experience, with many funny and enjoyable moments.

“Obviously sometimes we argue, but we work very well together,” she says. “We started music from a very young age, so we grew up with a mentality of taking care of ourselves and knowing how to work together for the goals that we want to achieve for all of us. We are very attentive to taking care of ourselves and our feelings.”

Recently, The Warning performed in October at the 2024 Aftershock Festival in Sacramento, California, where the group shared the bill with icons from the metal scene such as Iron Maiden, Pantera, Slipknot and Mastodon. They also opened shows for Evanescence in Canada.

In Mexico, tickets for their Feb. 6 and 11, 2025 shows at the capital’s Auditorio Nacional sold out in 48 hours. They will also perform on Feb. 13 at the Telmex Auditorium in Guadalajara, and on Feb. 22 in Monterrey, at the Citibanamex Auditorium.

25 Years of Latin Grammys: A Timeline of Top Winners, Person of the Year & More

The 2024 Latin Grammys are a week away, and in celebration of its 25th annual ceremony this year, Billboard has curated a timeline of notable winners at the ceremonies throughout the years. 

The first annual awards, which took place on Sept. 13, 2000 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, was co-hosted by Gloria Estefan, Jennifer Lopez, Antonio Banderas, Andy Garcia, and Jimmy Smits. Luis Miguel, Santana, and Maná were the top winners of the night, taking home three gramophone’s each. The former of the three nabbed album of the year for Amarte es un Placer, and the latter two won record of the year for their collaboration “Corazón Espinado.” 

Emilio Estefan Jr. was named The Latin Recording Academy’s first-ever person of the year. He has since been joined by prestigious titleholders Julio Iglesias, Shakira, Alejandro Sanz, Rubén Blades, and Laura Pausini, to name a few. Carlos Vives has been named the 2024 person of the year.

Over the years, the Latin Grammys has hosted its gala in different locations — including Miami, Houston, Las Vegas, and most recently abroad in Seville, Spain for its 2023 edition. 

As the 2024 awards approach, take a look back at the top winners including record of the year, album of the year, song of the year, and best new artist, as well as person of the year of the last 25 years in the timeline below. 

The 25th annual Latin Grammy Awards will air at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Nov. 14 via Univision, Galavisión and ViX. Preceding the telecast will be the Latin Grammy Premiere, where the winners in most categories will be announced. To see the complete list of nominees, click here.

Chevron’s Re-Fuel Zone Energizes Billboard Latin Music Week Attendees

From October 14 to 18, 2024, the Fillmore Miami Beach came alive with the return of Billboard Latin Music Week, celebrating its 35th Anniversary in style. This year’s event showcased over 70 artists, reinforcing its position as the premier gathering of Latin artists and industry executives globally. Since its inception, it has highlighted the growth and cultural impact of Latin music in the U.S.

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The vibrant lineup featured exclusive panel discussions, electrifying performances, and a range of workshops that engaged both fans and industry professionals. Attendees gained valuable insights from industry leaders and participated in events that celebrated the rich culture of Latin music.

A standout element of this year’s celebration was Chevron’s Re-Fuel Zone. Guests were able to refuel their devices at a charging station, helping them continue capturing special moments throughout the week.

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Additionally, fans had the opportunity to pose in front of a Chevron-themed car for a fun photo moment, creating lasting memories of the event. Attendees enjoyed a selection of snacks, refreshing beverages, and delightful paletas, keeping everyone energized. Plus, stylish branded tote bags were given away as keepsakes from the event.

One of the week’s highlights was the special appearance by Latin GRAMMY Award-winning artist Luis Figueroa. Chevron Rewards members had a special opportunity to meet and greet with him, and he participated in a rapid-fire interview, sharing captivating stories about his tour experiences and life as a rising star.

Singer-songwriter Luis Figueroa has merged his innate musical talents with his Puerto Rican heritage to become an up and coming force in the Latin music scene.

As Billboard Latin Music Week continues to evolve, this year’s celebration not only honored the rich history of Latin music but also set the stage for its vibrant future. If you weren’t able to join us in Miami, stay tuned to Billboard.com and Billboard’s socials for more content from the 35th anniversary of Billboard Latin Music Week.

Chevron is a paid sponsor of Billboard Latin Music Week.

Deezer Appoints Pedro Kurtz as Director of Operations for Americas

Deezer has appointed Pedro Kurtz as director of operations for the Americas, Billboard can exclusively announce today (Nov. 7).

Kurtz—who joined the company in 2020 as head of music in Brazil and served as director of content for LATAM—will be based at Deezer’s Brazil headquarters in São Paulo and report directly to the global team in Paris.

“After four years leading the content department, it is a great pleasure to take on the responsibility of overseeing operations in this region, which has been a strategic focus for us and has shown solid growth year over year,” he expressed in a statement. “We have seen consistent progress, and it is a privilege to now take on the role of connecting our headquarters with operations in the Americas, ensuring that our successful strategy continues to be implemented effectively and in alignment.”

In addition to leading the content department, Kurtz will ensure that the strategic decisions made at the headquarters in France are effectively understood and implemented within the LATAM and U.S. operations.

Furthermore, his new role will involve ongoing alignment on local opportunities and challenges, ensuring that the company’s global vision aligns with the needs of the entire region, according to the press release.

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Deezer’s new organizational structure — which continues its expansion in Brazil, Latin America and the United States — includes the appointments of Romar Sattler to lead editorial for LATAM; Daniel Aguiar joining as music editor for LATAM; Helena Gaia named artist relations for LATAM; and Juliana Sylvestre as AR manager for Spanish-speaking LATAM. 

WK Records Appoints Azucena Olvera as GM

WK Records has appointed Azucena “Azu” Olvera as GM, the company tells Billboard. According to the label, which was founded in 2020 by executive Walter Kolm, Olvera will leverage her “extensive expertise in talent relations, A&R, global marketing and strategic partnerships to further WK Records’ mission of cultivating groundbreaking music and elevating Latin artists on a global scale.”

Before joining WK Records — home to Los Esquivel, Cheo Gallego and Alex Rose, among other artists — Olvera was at SiriusXM and Pandora, where she served as senior director of Latin talent & industry relations and helped establish the SXM Miami studio. Her A&R experience will also branch out to management firm WK Entertainment (parent company to WK Records), whose roster includes Maluma, Carlos Vives, Emilia and Lasso.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Azu to WK Records,” Kolm said in a statement. “Her proven leadership and deep understanding of the Latin music landscape will be invaluable as we continue to grow our roster and elevate Latin talent globally. Azu brings a fresh perspective and an innovative spirit that aligns perfectly with our vision for the label.”

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“I am thrilled to join WK Records as General Manager! This is a game-changing opportunity to team up with some of the best in the business,” added Olvera. “Latin music has an extraordinary power to transcend borders and connect with audiences on a deep level. I look forward to leveraging my experience to elevate the success of our artists, attract new talent, and drive innovative strategies that will amplify the company’s reach in the music industry.”

Headquartered in Miami, WK Records — which also distributes Maluma and Wisin‘s respective imprints and provides label services to acts including Ryan Castro and SOG — has functioned as an incubator for artists from the United States, Puerto Rico, Spain and Latin America. In 2021, it launched a division dedicated to the regional Mexican music market. And last year, the company expanded to Brazil to develop local artists while creating new opportunities for the label’s roster.

Los Temerarios Continue Chicago Farewell Tour with Emotional and Nostalgia-Filled Show: ‘We Will Never Forget You’

Los Temerarios were initially supposed to play two shows in Chicago as part of their Hasta Siempre farewell tour, but it quickly expanded to a total of five nonconsecutive shows at the Allstate Arena. Chicago wasn’t the exception. The number of shows in big Latin markets, including Los Angeles, Dallas and Houston, doubled or tripled soon after the tour was announced. It’s something that David Zamora, CEO of Zamora Live – the trek’s promoter – had prepared for.

“When we were routing the tour, we held multiple dates with the assumption that, since it is the farewell tour, we would be adding shows,” explains Zamora. “I think all this shows how much the fans love Los Temerarios and how much they will be missed. These are memories to last a lifetime.”

On Wednesday (Nov. 6), the Mexican band – led by brothers Adolfo and Gustavo Ángel – performed the second of its string of shows at the Allstate where thousands of fans gathered to see Los Temerarios one last time together. Gustavo and Adolfo, who founded the group in the 80s, announced last year they were separating after more than four decades together, and a total of 41 entries on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart and 46 entries on Top Latin Albums — more than any other Latin act in history.

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On this particular night, the crowd skewed older millennial, many decked out in Temerarios merch. They were there to celebrate a band whose music has helped heal many broken hearts. “It takes me back to when I was a teen and I’d be sad in my room because my boyfriend had just broken up with me. Those are the songs I’d listen to,” says Yvette, who was there with a group of friends. “Their music means so much to me. It’s nostalgia, it’s Mexico,” adds her friend Lucia, who gets almost emotional.

As concertgoers filled every single seat of the arena — that has a capacity of nearly 20,000 people — the show kicked off at 8:30 p.m. with Adolfo, on keyboards, and frontman Gustavo taking the stage with their five-member live band in tow. The crowd, on their feet for most of the nearly three-hour show, roared at the sight of the brothers, who gave each a high five before embarking on the nostalgia-filled journey.

“What a beautiful welcome,” Gustavo said. ”We are very blessed to have you here tonight. It is the type of support you have shown us for so many years. We have so many memories here in this city, where we’ve performed since 1985.”

Los Temerarios performed its signature romantic love songs that have made zealous fans swoon over and over again, including “Mi Vida Eres Tú,” “Eres Un Sueño,” “Como te Recuerdo,” “Dímelo,” “La Mujer Que Soñé,” “La Mujer de Los Dos” and “Ven Porque Te Necesito,” just to name a few from the packed setlist. From cumbia grupera to rancheras and pop ballads, Adolfo and Gustavo showcased their vast catalog singing all the big hits for their last hoorah.

The brothers mainly stayed in place. Adolfo, who occasionally flashed shy smiles to his loyal followers, behind the keyboards and Gustavo being the charismatic frontman who knows exactly what to say and do to rile up the crowd. Both are perfectly in synch, after all they’ve been doing those for many years.

“My heart is feeling very emotional,” Adolfo added at one point. “I’m sorry if you suddenly feel that I’m overcome with emotion, but my heart overflows with gratitude. We are going to play all the songs you want. Our shows are usually last two hours long, but today we are going to play for three hours. We hope you have an unforgettable night. We will never forget you. Thank you, always.”

Worthy of a farewell show, Los Temerarios delivered an epic set, one that didn’t need for elaborate bits, complex choreographies or even a bombastic production. It was just Adolfo and Gustavo doing what they do best: sing from the heart the songs that have soundtracked Hispanic multigenerational homes for decades.

Los Temerarios’ Hasta Siempre Tour continues with three additional shows in Chicago from Nov. 7-9, and stops in Portland, Anaheim, Calif., and two BMO Stadium concerts in Los Angeles. On tour since February 2023, the Mexican band will end the trek in Mexico City in December.

Which Hit Should Win Song of the Year at 2024 Latin Grammys? Vote!

Ten tracks are contenders for the coveted Song of the Year category at the 25th annual Latin Grammy Awards.

The nominees include Daymé Arocena and Vicente García’s “A Fuego Lento”; Maura Nava’s “A La Mitad”; Elena Rose, Danny Ocean, and Jerry Di’s “Caracas En El 2000”; Jorge Drexler‘s “Derrumbe”; Shakira and Grupo Frontera‘s “(Entre Paréntesis)”; Gian Marco and Rubén Blades’ “Aún Me Sigo Encontrando”; Karol G‘s “Mi Ex Tenía Razón”; Maluma and Carín León’s “Según Quién”; Kany García and Carín León’s “Te Lo Agradezco”; and Residente, Silvia Pérez Cruz and Penélope Cruz’s “313.”

This award — which is one of the major four categories along with record of the year, album of the year, and best new artist — is granted to the songwriters of new songs that contain at least 51 percent of their lyrics in Spanish or Portuguese.

Both Mexican American chart-topper Edgar Barrera and Colombian hitmaker Kevyn “Keityn” Mauricio Cruz are the songwriters with the most nominations in this category, with “(Entre Paréntesis),” “Mi Ex Tenía Razón,” and “Según Quién.” Barrera, for the second year in a row, leads the list of nominees for the 2024 annual ceremony with nine nominations, including producer of the year and songwriter of the year.

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“The Latin Grammys have grown in an amazing way to become a fundamental platform for music and culture,” previously said Manuel Abud, CEO of The Latin Recording Academy, in a press release. “We are proud to share this year’s nominees, an international and diverse group of creators representing the richness and vastness of today’s Latin music.”

The 25th annual Latin Grammy Awards will air live from Miami on Thursday, Nov. 14 beginning at 8 p.m. ET/PT (7 p.m. Central) on Univision, Galavisión and ViX. 

Which hit should win the 2024 song of the year? Vote in the poll below.

Karol G’s ‘Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido’ No. 1 on Billboard Argentina Hot 100 for Eighth Week

Karol G’s “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido” orders an eighth round at No.1 on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 chart. The song, which became the singer’s fourth leader on the tally in September, extends the third-longest command in 2024, and moves to within three weeks of tying the second-longest domination this year.

Only two other songs have reigned more in 2024: Valentino Merlo and The La Planta’s “Hoy” and Mesita, Nicki Nicole, Tiago PZK and Emilia’s “Una Foto (remix),” for 11 and 10 weeks in charge, respectively.

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The Hot Shot Debut of the week goes to Myke Towers’ “Degenere,” featuring Benny Blanco, after the latter’s No. 33 launch. Their first collaboration is part of Towers’ La Pantera Negra (Deluxe) album, whose original version debuted and peaked at No. 7 on the Top Latin Albums chart in September. Further, it’s Towers’ second charting song from the set, as “También,” rises 84-72 on the current chart.

Argentinian rising star Yami Safdie and Venezuelan Lasso’s “En Otra Vida” takes home the Greatest Gainer trophy of the week, as the song climbs 31 spots, from No. 83 to No. 52 for its all-time best.

Four other songs debut this week, starting with Rusherking and Paulo Londra’s “Que Hicimo’’ at No. 84, and Aespa’s “Whiplash” at No. 92.

Rafael Araneda & Karen Doggenweiler Talk Co-Hosting the Viña del Mar Festival in 2025

The Viña del Mar International Song Festival has its host duo for 2025. The event’s production reported Wednesday (Nov. 6) that presenter and journalist Rafael Araneda will join previously announced host Karen Doggenweiler for its 64th edition, which returns to Quinta Vergara from February 23 to 28.

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This will be the first time that Doggenweiler serves as co-host of the Chilean festival, while Araneda returns after seven years, having hosted before between 2011 and 2018.

Produced this year by Bizarro Live Entertainment, the Festival de Viña begins a “new era” on the channel Mega, after having previously been broadcast on Canal 13 and Televisión Nacional de Chile.

“Today, it is an honor, it is a privilege, it is a gift that music gives me, that life gives me, to be able to return in this new era of Mega and Bizarro doing the Viña del Mar Festival,” Araneda told Billboard Español this week. “[I have] great memories, and great expectations for the future.”

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“I am tremendously lucky to participate in this edition,” said Doggenweiler. “Viña is not only a festival, it is a global movement of music and entertainment, of human connection.”

With almost three decades of career in radio and television, Araneda has hosted journalistic spaces, primetime shows, realities and contests, in addition to his eight years at the helm of the Viña del Mar Festival. In recent years he has developed his career in Mexico City (TV Azteca) and Miami (Univision), where he currently hosts the show Enamorándonos.

Doggenweiler, with more than a quarter century on the Chilean screens, has also hosted entertainment shows in various formats, including primetime programs, morning shows, family shows, game shows, reality TV and festivals. Over the years she has had a close connection with the Festival de Viña, which she not only covered as a reporter, but for which she also served as a judge.

Launched in 1960, the Viña del Mar International Song Festival is held annually at the Quinta Vergara, a 15,000-seat amphitheater located in the Chilean city of Viña del Mar, in the central coastal region of Valparaíso.

Over six days, the event features a mix of superstars, emerging singers and local artists competing for Silver, Gold and Platinum “Gaviotas” (Seagulls). These awards are decided by a jury with the help of viewers from their homes, although the so-called “monster” — the audience present at Quinta Vergara — undoubtedly has great power of influence with its ovations and occasional boos.

Below, Karen Doggenweiler and Rafael Araneda, the official hosts of Viña del Mar 2025, answer questions from Billboard.

Karen, this is your first time as a host of the most important television event in Chile. How do you feel now that this moment is approaching?

I am tremendously fortunate to participate in this edition of the festival. Viña is not only a festival, it is a global movement of music and entertainment, of human connection. We are going to have cutting-edge technology, there is a commitment to sustainability as well and a show that we hope will illuminate the entire summer [in the Southern Hemisphere]. I feel that it comes at a very, very special moment in my career.

Together with Rafael, we hope to put our own stamp on it. We know that for 65 years other channels have had it too… and well, now we are here and of course we hope that it becomes an endearing festival in this new version that we have prepared, in this change of era that we are working with so much love and dedication.

Rafael, what does it mean to you to return to Viña as host after seven years?

Indeed, I was member of the jury on two occasions at the Viña del Mar Festival, and then I had the opportunity to host it in eight consecutive editions. It was an extraordinary experience, personally and professionally, given that we work with the best technology in terms of making television, of doing what we are passionate about. We work on a 360 multimedia concept where there are different audiences, not just the people on television — there is the radio, the written press, today social media is very strong, and also digital broadcasts that can even give you a personalized festival experience. In that sense, it was always a nice challenge.

Today, it is an honor, it is a privilege, it is a gift that music gives me, that life gives me, to be able to return in this new era of Mega and Bizarro doing the Viña del Mar Festival. [I have] great memories, and great expectations for the future.

What would you say has been your favorite moment in Viña?

Karen: So many! I was able to go as a spectator when I was little with my mother, with my sister. I have also been part of the jury, and on related satellite programs, I participated as a reporter, waiting for the artists who arrived at the airport to interview them. For so many years I have witnessed it from different places. I think I was just missing being a host! So I think my favorite moment in Viña is yet to come. Although I treasure each of these other moments in a very important place in my heart, I think Viña 2025 is going to be my favorite moment in Viña del Mar.

Rafael: There are many particular moments, there are many behind-the-scenes emotions — but I stick with the prior preparation, on a personal level. And also observing from backstage, from a unique point of view, the nerves of world-class stars before going onstage — or when they are introduced — they look nervous, they look eager, you see them vocalizing, doing exercises, talking and refining details with their crew. And there you realize that we are all people, that we all want to give always the best version of ourselves, and that what happens there is unique, truly wonderful.

Karen, you mentioned attending the festival as a spectator with your mother and your sister. What does your family tell you now that you will be hosting Viña del Mar?

Karen: My family feels proud, happy, and of course supports me in this important instance. We experience the affection of each of the Chileans that we encounter every day, of our compatriots, in every step we take on the street, through the screens, through the radio. Of course our family also adds to that. And I am convinced that with Rafael it is the same. I know his family, I love them very much. And well, we are already working very closely to make it an unforgettable festival, so that we truly reflect this change of era, so that we can surprise, and so that everyone transforms each of these six nights in something that remains forever in the hearts.

Rafael, what is going to be different for you after seven years of absence?

Rafael: I think that the signature that Mega and Bizarro are going to give it. And in that sense, together with Karen — with whom I had the opportunity to work for many years on Chilean television in different formats, at different times, and we enjoyed it, we had a great time — I think that will be the hallmark. Having the possibility of meeting her again after so many years of accumulated experience is going to be very rich. Hopefully that chemistry and maturity that we have both gained over the years will come through. I have no doubt that this is how it will be.

But the signature will also be connected to energy, which is a central concept for Viña 2025. The energy generated by the music, the energy generated by the Viña del Mar experience, the energy generated by making a broadcast that each of us makes it our mission, not only the media. People today will have access to technological platforms to see the festival from wherever they want to see it, and however they want to see it. I hope they see it with their family — the lineup is going to be along those lines. It will be family-friendly crossover artists, and obviously and proudly massive. That’s Viña del Mar.

Bad Bunny Shares a Message With the Undecided After Casting His Vote: ‘Listen to Your Heart’

During Puerto Rico’s Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5, Bad Bunny cast his vote early at Saint John’s School in San Juan. Dressed in a classic salsero style sporting shades, an open-buttoned tee and burgundy pants, the superstar took a moment to address undecided voters. “Listen to your heart,” he advised after submitting his ballot, Telemundo Puerto Rico reported.

“At the end of the day, everybody in Puerto Rico is clear what the best option is,” Bad Bunny continued. “The Puerto Rican people are not brute, they are not dumb. Puerto Ricans are intelligent, they are brave. I am sure they know what is the best decision for Puerto Rico.”

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His advice to voters comes just a week after he publicly voiced his support for Juan Manuel Dalmau Ramírez, an attorney and gubernatorial candidate representing the Puerto Rican Independence Party.

“I would tell them to think about their children, think about their grandchildren, think about their future, think about themselves, about those who have left and would like to return, and to listen to their hearts above what lies they want to invent — not to let themselves be deceived,” he added. “That is what I would tell them. I have already said a lot and I have said it from my heart. I am for Puerto Rico.”

In addition to speaking with the media, Benito also took to Instagram Stories to address ongoing issues in Puerto Rico, particularly the challenges faced during previous natural disasters. “The power will go out. The machines will cause problems. It’s raining. But we cannot give up. Let’s exercise our right to vote. And let’s defend it. It will be a long and difficult day, but it will be worth it. Let’s go, Puerto Rico! I have already voted! Go out and vote! For our present and future,” he urged.

He has previously shown his support to Kamala Harris and spoke up when comedian Tony Hinchcliffe referred to the U.S. commonwealth as a “floating island of garbage” during Donald Trump’s Oct. 27 rally in New York’s Madison Square Garden. 

See Bad Bunny’s message below: