By Maria Vasallo
Global superstar opens up about landing music’s biggest stage in exclusive Apple Music interview as conservative critics voice opposition
Puerto Rican megastar Bad Bunny will headline the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, the NFL announced Sunday, marking a historic moment for Latin music on one of the world’s biggest stages.
While the announcement has been met with widespread celebration from fans and the Latin community, it has also sparked outrage from some conservative voices, with critics pointing to Bad Bunny’s vocal opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies. Some prominent figures labeled the artist a «massive Trump hater» and an «anti-ICE activist,» while others criticized him for having «no songs in English». The Puerto Rican artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been outspoken about political issues affecting his homeland and the Latino community, particularly regarding immigration policy.
Despite the criticism, the Grammy-winning artist sat down with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe and Ebro Darden for his first interview since the announcement, sharing his excitement about the performance. «I’ve been keeping this secret for so long, and it felt really good» to finally share the news, Bad Bunny told Apple Music. «I’m excited, but this makes me even happier because it’s not just about me — it’s about everyone. I’m excited for my friends, my family, Puerto Rico, all the Latino people around the world. I’m excited for my culture.»
The announcement video was filmed on a beach in Bad Bunny’s hometown in Puerto Rico. «The beach where we filmed is the beach from my town, so it’s something very special to us,» he said.
Bad Bunny recalled a conversation he had with Lowe and Darden years ago about potentially performing at the Super Bowl. «I remember that day, we talked about how in a few years I could be there,» he said. «And now the moment has arrived.» The call came from JAY-Z himself, catching the artist mid-workout. «It’s crazy because I was in the middle of training,» Bad Bunny revealed. «I remember after that call I did like a hundred pull-ups. I didn’t need any more pre-workout or anything. It was very special.»
For Bad Bunny, the performance represents more than a personal achievement — it’s an opportunity to showcase Puerto Rican and Latin culture to a massive global audience. The Super Bowl halftime show typically draws over 100 million viewers. «Wherever I go, I always represent and always put my country and my music out there,» he said. «I’m still defining what I’m going to do in this show, but it’s going to be good.»
The artist emphasized that his success reflects a broader shift in how Latin music has become more accessible to mainstream audiences. «I think it’s also the result of doing things with heart,» he explained. «I always give my best and work with a lot of passion, and I’m still working. I’m a rookie, still hungry to conquer and show people what I can do.»
As he prepares for what will be one of the biggest performances of his career, Bad Bunny’s approach remains grounded in authenticity and joy. «I’m going to enjoy it. I’m going to embrace the moment,» he said. «I’m going to show what we have — our music, our culture. I go on stage to enjoy myself and have fun.»
«This is for everyone,» said Benito. «This is for all the people who believe in me and have been supporting me.»
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