Bad Bunny has released a politically charged music video for his song "NUEVAYoL". Released on July 4th, the video takes aim at former President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies. The video, directed by Renell Medrano, blends a celebration of Latin culture in New York City with a strong message of unity and a direct critique of anti-immigrant rhetoric.
The "NUEVAYoL" music video incorporates several elements to convey its message. It opens with scenes from a traditional quinceañera, highlighting the vibrancy and importance of Latin culture. A notable scene features Bad Bunny standing atop the Statue of Liberty, which is draped with a Puerto Rican flag. This powerful image symbolizes the contributions and presence of the Puerto Rican diaspora and Latin Americans in the United States.
The most direct criticism of Donald Trump comes through a voice recording that sounds remarkably like the former president. In the recording, the Trump sound-alike apologizes to immigrants, stating, "I made a mistake. I want to apologize to the immigrants in America. I mean the United States. I know America is the whole continent. I want to say that this country is nothing without the immigrants. This country is nothing without Mexicans, Dominicans, Puerto Ricans, Colombians, Venezuelans, Cubans". The video then cuts to the men turning off the boombox and walking away.
The release of "NUEVAYoL" comes at a time of heightened tensions surrounding immigration policies. The video's message is particularly relevant in light of recent immigration crackdowns and increased funding for immigration detention centers. Bad Bunny ends the video with the message "Juntos Somos Más Fuertes," which translates to "Together We Are Stronger".
"NUEVAYoL" is part of Bad Bunny's album, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, which blends Latin urbano sounds with traditional Puerto Rican music. Bad Bunny is also hosting a concert residency, "No Me Quiero Ir De Aquí," at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico from July 11 to September 14.