Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.
All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.
Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student manager Rocio (class of 2026) and features Bad Bunny’s 2025 studio album Debí tirar más fotos aka DtMF. Thanks, Rocio!
As an international Latin student, it makes me so happy to see Debí tirar más fotos not only as part of our vinyl collection, but also as one of the staff picks. This album is more than iconic; it is an activist album that speaks to the many injustices Puerto Rico has experienced throughout its history. It is a Latin album rooted in unity, culture, and mucho sazón.
One of my top songs is “Weltita” because it invites people to visit Puerto Rico while also reminding them to respect the island. It does this through a playful, flirty, and loving song. Although it is only mentioned in one line, I especially love the story of Jacinto. Jacinto’s Well is a famous natural sinkhole located at Jobos Beach in Isabela, Puerto Rico. Legend has it that a farmer named Jacinto was herding his cow near the rocks, with the animal’s rope tied around his waist. A loud thunderclap frightened the cow, causing it to fall into the well and drag Jacinto down with it, resulting in both of them drowning. I love how the song can feel cute and romantic while also incorporating a piece of Puerto Rican history and folklore. Benito leaves many references throughout the album that feel especially meaningful to Puerto Ricans and islanders.
Another song I really loved because of its activism is “Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii.” In the song, Benito references how Hawaii was taken by force and how its people have been mistreated. He draws a connection between Hawaii and Puerto Rico, warning about what could happen to Puerto Rico as a U.S. territory if its history and people continue to be overlooked. I especially liked how Benito incorporated Ricky Martin into the song when he had the opportunity to perform it at the Super Bowl.
I’ll end with my third pick, “La Mudanza,” which emphasizes how many Latino families are forced to migrate to the United States or other parts of the world. Benito tells the story of a family moving somewhere new while still holding on to their roots and identity. I think this is something many Latino families can relate to, including those who have had to leave their homes in search of better opportunities.
I invite everyone not only to speak up for what is right, but also to listen to the album, pay attention to the small details, and dance it out if you can. DtMF is an album that celebrates Puerto Rican culture while inviting us to think about history, identity, unity, and action.
