Bad Bunny Makes Grammy History With Spanish-Language Album Win Amid Political Tension
Bad Bunny has added another chapter to its success story by making history in the United States. This Sunday in the 68th edition of the premios Grammy the Puerto Rican, who next week will star in the intermission show of the Super Bowl, has become the first artist who wins the award for best album of the year with a entire work in Spanish, ‘I SHOULD SHOOT MORE PHOTOS’.
A Triumph With Political Resonance
The Recording Academy’s recognition of Bad Bunny comes during heightened political tensions under Donald Trump’s second presidency. The artist won three awards: Best Album of the Year, Best Urban Music Album, and Best Global Music Performance. His victory marks a cultural milestone as the first Spanish-language album to win the Grammys’ top honor since the awards began in 1959.
Bad Bunny has emerged as a vocal advocate for immigrant rights, strategically avoiding continental U.S. tours to protect fans from immigration enforcement. Instead, he created a Puerto Rico concert residency that boosted the island’s economy by $300 million according to Puerto Rico Tourism Company reports.
Powerful Speeches Against Discrimination
During his acceptance speech for Best Urban Album, Bad Bunny (born Benito Ocasio) directly addressed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement: “Before I thank God I’m going to say ICE OUT”. The Crypto.com Arena audience responded with a standing ovation as he continued: “We are not savages, we are not animals; we are humans and we are Americans”.
When accepting Album of the Year, the artist switched to Spanish to honor Puerto Rico: “We are much bigger than 100 by 35 [miles] and there is nothing we can’t achieve”. He dedicated the award to immigrants worldwide who’ve “had to leave their home to follow their dreams”.
Artists Unite in Social Justice Messages
Other Grammy winners echoed political themes. Billie Eilish, winning Best Song for ‘Wildflower’, declared: “No one is illegal on stolen land”, referencing Native American displacement. Best New Artist winner Olivia Dean highlighted her immigrant heritage: “I am a product of courage… We are nothing without each other”.
Attendees visibly supported the cause with “ICE Out” badges throughout the ceremony. Backstage, Gloria Estefan condemned family separations at border facilities: “There are hundreds of minors in detention centers… We need humanity”.
Historic Wins and Performances
Kendrick Lamar became the most awarded rapper in Grammy history with five wins, including Record of the Year for ‘Luther’ featuring SZA. Lady Gaga urged female empowerment when accepting Best Pop Vocal Album for ‘Mayhem’: “Always fight for your ideas as producers”.
The ceremony featured landmark moments including the first K-Pop Grammy win for ‘Golden’ by K-Pop Demon Hunters and a Lifetime Achievement Award for Cher. Memorable performances included Bruno Mars and Rosé’s opening number and Lauryn Hill’s tribute to deceased musicians.
Political Commentary Throughout
Host Trevor Noah made pointed remarks about Trump’s immigration policies and presidential ambitions: “I believe in mandates that expire”. His joke about Epstein’s island and Bill Clinton drew audible reactions from the crowd.
Shaboozey, winner for Best Country Collaboration, honored immigrants’ cultural contributions: “You give color to the USA”. The night ultimately blended artistic achievement with social activism, reflecting Grammy voters’ (all 15,000 Recording Academy members) recognition of music’s evolving cultural role.
As celebrations continue ahead of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LV performance, industry analysts note his Grammy sweep signals lasting change. According to Billboard, Spanish-language music consumption grew 23% year-over-year in 2025, confirming the market impact behind this historic win.
Source: Diario de Ibiza
Images Credit: www.diariodeibiza.es