Hola! It’s been a minute since I’ve archived episodes of La Alternativa, but we’ve been busy behind the scenes plotting and scheming new ways to bring you more sounds from the Latin Alternative landscape. Not only did we bring in an amazing new producer and host, Paula Lovo, but we’ve launched our own Instagram account @laalternativamke and have fresh new branding on the way (so if you see my Canva experiments out there, be kind!). This week’s episode is extra special because we dedicated it to honoring Bad Bunny and his historic residency at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot, better known as "El Choli."
I had the privilege of flying back to my island and seeing it with my own eyes. From the moment you land, you feel it — the entire island is alive. Merch lines snake around the airport, murals and pop-ups celebrate Benito, and fans are arriving from all over the world. San Juan feels like one big festival — bars are hosting listening parties, record stores are spinning his discography, and people are blasting “DtMF.”
Inside the Choli, it was pure magic. The stage design featured a massive mountain centerpiece symbolizing Puerto Rico’s strength and beauty, paired with a nostalgic casita evoking home and memory. The production was next-level: lights, pyro, dancers, live percussion, and visuals that turned each song into its own cinematic moment.
And then came the surprises — part of what’s making this residency legendary.
· Arcángel joined him to perform their iconic collaborations.
· Young Miko had the whole arena singing along.
· Feid came through with his green-haired swagger and reggaeton energy.
· Ivy Queen made an appearance, reminding everyone why she’s the queen of reggaeton.
Each night has had its own unique guest list, making fans wonder who might pop up next. In this episode of La Alternativa, Paula and I channeled that energy, playing tracks from artists who’ve influenced Bad Bunny’s sound, from salsa legends like El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico to new-school collaborators like Tainy and more. I shared my favorite residency moments, broke down what this means for Puerto Rican music, and yes, we made our prediction on who will close out the residency this weekend. (Hint: we’re betting on a big hometown moment!)
This residency is more than a concert series, it’s a celebration of Puerto Rican identity, global Latin music, and Bad Bunny’s role as a cultural disruptor. Whether you were lucky enough to be there or are living it through the livestreams, we hope this episode helps you feel the power of what’s happening on the island right now.
Episode Playlist:
1. Bad Bunny – “NUEVAYoL”
2. El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico – “Un Verano en Nueva York”
3. Bad Bunny – “ALAMBRE PUA”
4. Bad Bunny – “DtMF”
5. Tainy, Bad Bunny, Julieta Venegas – “Lo Siento BB”
6. Julieta Venegas & Ana Tijoux – “Eres para Mi”
7. Bad Bunny – “Titi Me Pregunto”
8. Anthony Santos – “No Te Puedo Olvidar”
9. Bad Bunny – “25-8”
10. Hector El Father – “Dejale Caer To’ el Peso” ft Yomo
11. Residente – “This is Not America” ft Ibeyi
12. Bad Bunny – “BOKeTE”
