Reggaeton: The pride of Puerto Rico?

Crossing Continents

Reggaeton’s the soundtrack to Puerto Rico. The globally popular music reflects what’s going on in the cultural and political scene of the Spanish-speaking Caribbean Island.

It started out as underground music in marginalised communities but was criticised for allegedly promoting violence and being too sexually explicit.

Reggaeton has since been used as an anthem to overthrow a local governor and a way to criticise the island’s complex relationship with the United States.

It’s also evolved from misogynist roots to reach new audiences in the LGBTQ community.

Jane Chambers travels to Puerto Rico to meet the people and hear the music which is both maligned and revered.

Presenter and Producer: Jane Chambers Field Producers: Hermes Ayala and Yondy Agosto Sound Mix: Neil Churchill Production Coordinator: Gemma Ashman Editor: Penny Murphy