Thoughts on Bad Bunny’s New Album and the Gatekeeping

Hi everyone,

I’m an OG Bad Bunny fan and an Afro-Latina (shoutout to Panama 🇵🇦). Lately, I’ve noticed some gatekeeping around his new album, especially on TikTok. As we know, it’s a love letter to Puerto Rico—a dedication to the island and its people—but some are saying things like:

"This album isn’t for you." "You don’t understand it." "It’s only for Puerto Ricans." Some even shame others for enjoying the album if they can’t directly relate. One person said, “People listening and saying they relate are so stupid.”

I mean there’s even been talking telling others not to visit PR (ethical travel - but well save that for another day lol)

Personally, I think music is universal and can connect with people even if they don’t share the exact experience. What do you think? Is the gatekeeping valid, or is it okay for others to appreciate and find meaning in the album? Let’s talk!