Rauw Alejandro, a Puerto Rican music star, has shifted from the space-themed reggaeton of his 2023 album Playa Saturno to a new, retro-inspired project. His fifth album, Cosa Nuestra, blends classic Puerto Rican sounds like salsa and merengue with modern reggaeton and features big-name collaborators like Pharrell Williams, Bad Bunny, and Feid. Alejandro’s album is influenced by the ’60s and ’70s Nuyorican culture, drawing on his heritage and using traditional instruments mixed with digital beats. He feels proud to represent Puerto Rico and aims to bring attention to the island’s culture and challenges. Collaborating with Pharrell on a track was a new experience for him, including singing in English for the first time. Alejandro also created a character based on his elegant style, reflecting both his youthful energy and old-school vibes. He and other Puerto Rican artists, such as Bad Bunny and Residente, use their platforms to speak out about issues facing their homeland, promoting positive change and inspiring future generations.