House of Music

Bad Bunny

Coachella

Indio, CA

April 14th, 2023

Review by Alexander Andrade

MAIN PHOTO: Amy Harris, Associated Press

Bad Bunny made history at Coachella on Friday night as the first Latin artist to headline the music festival. The Puerto Rican superstar took to the stage just after 11:30 p.m., and it was clear from the outset that this was no ordinary performance for him. Before he arrived, a pre-show film highlighted Coachella’s lineups over the years, featuring multiple undercard acts that have gone on to headline – including Bad Bunny himself. When he finally emerged on stage, elevated above the sea of fans, he launched into “Tití Me Preguntó” from his album “Un Verano Sin Ti,” accompanied by dancers and fireworks with the bunny symbol on screen.

Bad Bunny continued to wow the crowd with an array of hits, beginning with “Moscow Mule,” as flames shot up in the background. Next, he performed “Efecto,” with the lights dimming to create a night sky with stars and the bunny symbol shining brightly. Fireworks and flames continued to light up the stage as the dancers walked off, making way for Bad Bunny’s solo performance of “Neverita,” which saw the stage transformed into a beach theme with palm trees and flying dolphin props.

As he finished the song, Bad Bunny addressed the crowd in Spanish, asking “How are you feeling tonight, Coachella?” The crowd roared in response, and when he asked whether they would prefer him to speak in English or Spanish, the resounding answer was “Español!”

Bad Bunny then launched into “Si Ya Tu Mamá,” with the lights aimed at the crowd in rainbow colors and fireworks exploding overhead. He paused for a moment and then proceeded to perform the song in a more upbeat tempo as colorful lights flashed around the stage. He continued to captivate the audience with hits such as “La Difícil,” with the lyrics appearing on the screen, and “La Santa,” which features Daddy Yankee, as he walked up and down the stage with a single light hitting him.

After the dancers left the stage, the lights went off, and an eye appeared on the screen representing his old album. He then performed “Otra Noche en Miami (with Intro of ‘Ser Bichote’)” as the visuals on the screen showed him driving through the city at night, representing Miami.

Bad Bunny took a moment to thank the audience for coming and talked about his two tours last year, thanking the audience again for making him feel special. He also told the fans not to worry about him, as only he knows how he will end. Before launching into the next song, Bad Bunny said he loves singing it with the fans because it’s powerful.

He then performed “El Apagón,” with lights flashing and Bad Bunny jumping around the stage with the dancers. Next, a video appeared on stage talking about the history of reggae and hip-hop mixing together, leading into “Safaera,” with a car filled with speakers in the middle of the stage and featured artists Jowell & Randy on stage with Bad Bunny, who had changed into jean shorts, a tank top/button-down shirt, and a poncho.

As the show drew to a close, Bad Bunny got off the stage and went into the pit, going around interacting with fans. One of the fans gave him a sombrero, and as he was returning to the stage, a special guest was waiting on stage sitting on a chair with a guitar: Post Malone. Bad Bunny asked him what he was doing there, and Post Malone asked the crowd if they were having a good time, to which they screamed in response.

Together, Bad Bunny and Post Malone performed an acoustic version of “La Canción,” with Post Malone playing the guitar. Bad Bunny then asked Post Malone if he knew the lyrics, and the fans laughed. Bad Bunny continued

Bad Bunny delivered an unforgettable performance at Coachella, cementing his status as a superstar in the music industry. Despite sound issues, the crowd eagerly joined in to sing along to an acoustic version of “Yonaguni”. The energy continued to escalate as Bad Bunny performed hit after hit, including “Dákiti”, “Tarot”, and “No Me Conoce” with fellow artist Jhayco. The crowd went wild as Bad Bunny rode a boat around the pit during the performance.

In between songs, Bad Bunny took a moment to connect with his fans, asking how they were doing and whether he should continue the show. The enthusiasm of the crowd was evident as they loudly cheered for him to continue. Bad Bunny disappeared from the stage to the runway during “Callaita”, throwing up a heart to the adoring crowd.

The excitement continued to build as Bad Bunny performed “Me Porto Bonito”, with a fan even tossing him a stuffed animal. After the song, Bad Bunny asked the crowd if he should continue, and once again, the audience roared in agreement. He then closed out the night with “Después de la Playa”, turning the event into a massive dance party. As the song came to an end, Bad Bunny thanked everyone for coming and walked off stage, leaving the crowd wanting more.

Overall, Bad Bunny’s Coachella performance was a true victory lap, showcasing his immense talent and ability to connect with his fans. Those who missed out on the first weekend have another chance to catch him on April 21st. It’s a show that shouldn’t be missed by any music lover.