As summer comes to an end, I'm savoring the last days by cruising down the highway with the windows down shuffling through songs from reggaeton legends like Ivy Queen and Nicky Jam, to new trendsetters like Bad Bunny and Rauw Alejandro.
Reggaeton has a vibrant history and grew from influence in reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, salsa, cumbia and many other genres. Reggaeton grew to prominence in Puerto Rico in the late 90’s and has captivated listeners worldwide. Its infectious beats and catchy melodies have transcended borders, permeating Latin communities and mainstream pop culture.
In recent years, the resurgence of reggaeton has mirrored the world’s budding interest in Latin American cultures, coinciding with the growing Latin population in the United States. Reggaeton has made significant cultural waves in the U.S., exemplified by the induction of Daddy Yankee's iconic "Gasolina" into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress, marking a historic moment for the genre. This is in sharp contrast to the genre’s early history, which was marked by censorship and persecution in Puerto Rico, reinforcing stereotypes of reggaeton as violent and vulgar.
For many Latinos, reggaeton is more than just music—it's a lens through which we can understand and confront societal challenges. From its inception, artists have discussed themes of inequality, classism and racism through conversations accessible to a wide audience. In “Loiza”, Tego Calderón celebrates Puerto Rico’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture while sparking conversations about socio-economic issues faced by the community, such as racial discrimination and poverty.
With reggaeton's recent commercial success, these themes have decreased to appeal to a broader audience. However, the depiction of Latin culture and the consistent use of the Spanish language remain integral to the genre. Beyond its status as party music, reggaeton serves as a vehicle for social commentary and activism, similar to the role played by rap and hip-hop. Artists release fun and popular songs while subsequently delivering poignant tracks like “Michael X” by Myke Towers, which confronts police brutality following George Floyd’s death; demonstrating the genre’s reactive ability to amplify voices and drive change. Reggaeton serves as a cultural bridge, offering insight into the diverse experiences and concerns of Latin Americans.
As Latin American influence continues to spread globally, fueled in part by the bass drums of reggaeton, there’s a growing need for Americans to understand this dynamic diaspora. Latinos are the fastest growing ethnic group in the U.S with a population of over 60 million. As a Latina navigating the intersection of culture and diplomacy in the United States, I see a pressing need for leaders and communities to engage meaningfully and effectively with us. The future of American politics and diplomacy hinges on recognizing the active and conscious role we play in society and the political process. Part of that understanding can grow from recognizing reggaeton's potential for social change. Reggaeton not only entertains but also provides a platform for addressing social issues, promoting cultural pride, and advocating for the rights and recognition of the Latin American community in the U.S. and abroad.
Veronica Araujo Mejia is a Senior Associate working on the IVLP Impact Awards initiative at Meridian International Center. She received her bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in homeland security and emergency preparedness from the Virginia Commonwealth University. Veronica is a member of Meridian’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Taskforce.
