If there’s one thing we’ve learned from Bad Bunny’s meteoric rise, it’s that the Puerto Rican superstar’s grip on the global music scene is unyielding. His latest single, “MONACO,” lifted from the album Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va A Pasar Mañana, is an emblematic testament to this power.
The album title translates to “Nobody Knows What Will Happen Tomorrow,” an ethos seemingly embroidered into the fabric of the song and its accompanying visual spectacle. In the track, Bad Bunny confidently reminds his audience of his esteemed position in the music stratosphere, yet there is an omnipresent undercurrent of uncertainty and vulnerability. This duality presents itself not just in his lyrics, but also in the sonic landscape he’s carefully crafted.
It’s been a year fraught with controversies for Bad Bunny, from tossing a fan’s phone to rumored dalliances with A-list celebrities. Yet, against this backdrop, “MONACO” emerges as a statement piece. It’s a shimmering display of opulence, underscored by the glitzy glamour of Monaco and amplified by an unexpected but riveting appearance from Al Pacino in its music video. Their mutual appreciation in a New York setting, contrasting with the European luxury of Monaco, showcases the universal allure of both the actor and the musician.
The “Hier Encore” sample, originally by Charles Aznavour, adds layers of depth to “MONACO.” Aznavour’s poignant reflections on youth and the passage of time are recontextualized, meshing seamlessly with Bad Bunny’s own contemplations. The song is rife with lyrical barbs and affirmations. With lines like “A ti ni te conocen ni en tu barrio/Ayer estaba con LeBron, también con DiCaprio,” the track establishes both Bad Bunny’s dominance and the surreal nature of his star-studded life.
Bad Bunny’s departure from reggaeton, as documented by Kimberly from Complex, signifies a broader return to his Latin trap roots. But “MONACO” isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past; it’s a polished, modern iteration of the genre, presenting a chic touch, as evident from its glamorous music video. This track, alongside others in the album, reinforces Bad Bunny’s ability to transcend genres, be it Latin trap, reggaeton, or a fusion of both. With each release, he carves out a niche that is uniquely his own.
There’s a sense of growth throughout the album. The same can be said of “MONACO” – it’s a track that encapsulates a matured Bad Bunny, at once looking back at where he’s come from while also assertively declaring where he’s headed.
In summation, “MONACO” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic journey. Bad Bunny manages to traverse a spectrum of emotions, from the braggadocious highs to introspective lows, all wrapped in a melodic package that’s as visually captivating as it is audibly arresting. As with most of his work, it’s not just about listening but experiencing the world he creates, and “MONACO” invites us into a realm where uncertainty and opulence dance in harmonious tandem.
Photo: press