Rauw Alejandro Showcases Puerto Rican Bomba in New Film

Rauw Alejandro has unveiled a new film celebrating the vibrant folklore of Puerto Rico through his latest single, “Besito en la Frente.” Released in partnership with Apple, the short film captures the essence of bomba, a traditional musical style that is integral to Puerto Rican culture. The cinematic piece, shot entirely on an iPhone 17 Pro, showcases the island’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The film opens with Rauw Alejandro emphasizing the significance of bomba, stating, “Bomba is not just music. It’s the earth turned into sound. A heartbeat that came from Africa and blossomed in Puerto Rico.” He highlights the art form as a living dialogue that connects past and future generations, stating, “Every town in Puerto Rico expresses the bomba in its own way.”

Celebrating Cultural Heritage

Directed by Rauw Alejandro and creative director Martin Seipel, the film features stunning visuals of Puerto Rico’s waterfalls and rainforests, showcasing the traditions upheld by the island’s cultural guardians, particularly the vejigantes. Rauw Alejandro describes bomba as “Afro-Puerto Rican cultural pride” that fosters unity among communities and generations.

Midway through the film, Alejandro performs “Besito en la Frente” in a lush field, surrounded by bomba dancers. Dressed in earthy tones and a brown bandana, he combines his love song with the rhythmic movements of the dancers, creating an immersive celebration of Puerto Rican culture.

Seipel, reflecting on the filming experience, noted, “I pushed it to its limits: from slow-motion shots to low-light scenes.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to shoot in Puerto Rico, stating, “It gave us everything: its energy, its colors, and especially its people.” The collaboration with Apple allowed for innovative filming techniques, including the ability to record in RAW format and utilize a 16x zoom range.

New Music and Cultural Impact

The single “Besito en la Frente” is part of Rauw Alejandro’s latest album, Cosa Nuestra: Capitulo 0, which includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Wisin, De La Rose, Saso, Ayra Starr, and Mon Laferte. A review from Rolling Stone noted that the album represents a cultural force emerging from a region composed of numerous small countries, emphasizing its importance in the global music landscape.

Through this film, Rauw Alejandro not only showcases his artistry but also pays homage to the rich musical traditions of Puerto Rico, ensuring that the spirit of bomba continues to resonate with audiences both locally and internationally.