Rauw Alejandro Celebrates Puerto Rican Bomba in New Film

Rauw Alejandro has released a short film titled “Besito en la Frente,” which pays homage to the vibrant folklore of Puerto Rico. In partnership with Apple, the singer directed this cinematic piece using the iPhone 17 Pro, showcasing the rich tradition of bomba, a deeply rooted musical genre that has become a symbol of cultural identity on the island.

The film was launched on October 23, 2023, and opens with Alejandro reflecting on the essence of bomba. He states, “Bomba is not just music. It’s the earth turned into sound. A heartbeat that came from Africa and blossomed in Puerto Rico.” This powerful statement captures the essence of a tradition that has thrived through resistance and celebration, emphasizing the connections between the past and the future.

Exploring Cultural Heritage Through Film

The short film artfully presents the breathtaking landscapes of Puerto Rico, including its lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Through the lens of Alejandro and creative director Martin Seipel, the video highlights the role of the “cultural guardians,” such as the vejigantes, who embody the island’s storytelling and folklore. Alejandro describes bomba as a unifying force, stating, “Bomba unites towns and generations. It’s Afro-Puerto Rican cultural pride.”

As the film unfolds, Alejandro’s song “Besito en la Frente” begins, featuring him in an expansive grassy field adorned in earthy tones and a brown bandana. Surrounded by bomba dancers, he performs a heartfelt rendition of the love song, further immersing viewers in the cultural experience.

The collaboration with Apple allowed for high-quality visual storytelling. Seipel noted, “I pushed it to its limits: from slow-motion shots to low-light scenes.” The iPhone 17 Pro’s capabilities, including RAW recording and a 16x zoom range, played a crucial role in capturing the island’s vibrant energy, colors, and its people.

A Celebration of Cultural Identity

“Besito en la Frente” is part of Alejandro’s latest album, Cosa Nuestra: Capitulo 0, which features collaborations with artists such as Wisin, De La Rose, Saso, Ayra Starr, and Mon Laferte. The album has been praised for its representation of a diverse cultural landscape, with Rolling Stone describing it as a “cultural force that can’t be silenced.”

Through this film and his music, Rauw Alejandro reinforces his commitment to celebrating Puerto Rican culture. The film not only showcases the beauty of bomba but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the Puerto Rican people. By blending modern technology with traditional art forms, Alejandro invites audiences to appreciate the richness of his heritage while connecting with the universal themes of love and freedom.