Global superstar Bad Bunny surprised fans by omitting the continental United States from his highly anticipated "Debí Tirar Más Fotos" world tour. In a recent interview with i-D, the Puerto Rican artist revealed the reasoning behind this decision, citing concerns about the potential presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at his concerts.
Addressing the absence of US dates directly, Bad Bunny stated that his choice was not driven by animosity towards US fans, emphasizing his history of successful performances in the country. Instead, he highlighted the underlying political climate and its impact on the Latino community. He explained that the decision stemmed from worries about the potential for ICE activity outside his venues, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty for his Latino fans.
The singer's decision gained further context when viewed alongside his extended residency in Puerto Rico, "No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí." This residency, spanning 30 shows since mid-July, has welcomed fans from around the globe, including many Americans experiencing the island for the first time. This provided a unique opportunity to connect with his US fanbase in a safer, more welcoming environment, outside the reach of potential ICE actions.
Bad Bunny's outspoken criticism of ICE and the Trump administration is well-documented. A previous Instagram post showed his apparent witnessing of an ICE raid in Puerto Rico, fueling his concerns and informing his decision regarding the tour. His proactive choice to hold a significant portion of his tour in Puerto Rico demonstrates a powerful stance on immigration issues, emphasizing solidarity with his Latino community and creating a safe space for his fans to celebrate his music.
The "Debí Tirar Más Fotos" tour officially kicks off November 21st in Santo Domingo, encompassing a significant Latin American leg before continuing to Europe, Australia, and Japan. While US fans will miss out on these initial dates, the choice underscores Bad Bunny's commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of his Latino fans above all else.
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Originally published at: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-latin/bad-bunny-skipped-the-us-tour-over-ice-concerns-1235424755/
