When Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican singer-songwriter and rapper was announced as the performer for the NFL halftime show, many Super Bowl fans did not take the news lightly. The majority of Bad Bunny’s songs are sung in Spanish, and his disapproving view over the current administration’s actions and motives have stimulated controversy.
“Personally, I feel like we are such a diverse country, and Puerto Rico is part of our country, and I think that we need to embrace the diversity in this country,” FHS staff member Carmen Bliss said.
Performing at the NFL halftime show can help boost an artist’s career, but more importantly, it is used to bring in more viewers to the game. Therefore, the NFL puts a lot of thought into deciding and advertising who will perform in order to get the largest fan base to listen in.
“I think last year with Kendrick Lamar, there was another group of viewers. And I think this year the NFL is really focusing [on] bringing the NFL worldwide, because it’s really an American sport,” Bliss said. “I think part of why I watch the Super Bowl is the halftime show. I think it’s just a big hype, and I will especially watch because Bad Bunny is performing.”
The Super Bowl has been a connecting point throughout the years, bringing fans of a variety of interests together.
“It’s a reason to get together with people,” FHS English teacher Christina Brown said.
“I think it’s like a fixture of American culture. I like being a part of that. Even though I’m not a huge football fan, I do enjoy watching the game and being a part of the excitement.”
On the contrary, many people are enraged over the fact that Bad Bunny writes his songs primarily in Spanish, as they will not be able to understand his singing. This has brought up a larger cultural conflict surrounding the inclusion aspect of the Super Bowl as well, regarding race and heritage. One things for sure, everyone will be watching.
