In a bold and history-making move, Puerto Rican global superstar Bad Bunny has been announced as the headline performer for the upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show. Known for hits like “Tití Me Preguntó” and “La Canción,” the reggaeton and Latin trap icon will become the first Spanish-language-only artist to lead the iconic performance. While many celebrate the decision as a milestone for Latin music, not all fans are cheering.
Within hours of the announcement, a Change.org petition surfaced demanding that legendary guitarist Carlos Santana replace Bad Bunny. The petition, titled “Let Carlos Santana Rock the Super Bowl,” quickly gained traction across social media platforms. As of this writing, the petition has surpassed 65,000 signatures and continues to grow by the hour.
Supporters of the petition argue that Carlos Santana better represents American music heritage and the cultural spirit of the NFL audience. Santana, whose fusion of rock, Latin, and blues has earned him multiple Grammy Awards, is seen as a more unifying figure across generations. Petitioners cite Santana’s enduring legacy and “family-friendly” appeal as reasons for the switch.
Bad Bunny’s selection, however, has also been widely celebrated by millions of fans around the world. His groundbreaking success in the music industry, including becoming Spotify’s most-streamed artist globally for three years running, makes him a logical and timely choice. Advocates for the performance say the move signals progress and inclusivity in American entertainment.
The controversy highlights deeper cultural tensions regarding language, identity, and tradition within mainstream American events. Critics of Bad Bunny’s selection claim that performing entirely in Spanish may alienate certain parts of the Super Bowl’s traditionally broad viewership. Meanwhile, defenders argue that America’s diversity should be reflected on its biggest entertainment stages.
Carlos Santana himself has not publicly commented on the petition or the growing debate. The 76-year-old icon has previously performed at major events and is no stranger to grand stages, including his legendary set at Woodstock and collaborations with countless artists. Still, fans continue to flood his social media with messages of support, urging him to “answer the call.”
NFL representatives have stood by their choice, praising Bad Bunny as a revolutionary talent who connects with younger generations. “We believe in celebrating the global influence of today’s music,” a league spokesperson said in a statement. “Bad Bunny represents a new chapter in what the Super Bowl Halftime Show can be.”
Despite the backlash, music industry insiders have applauded the NFL’s decision as forward-thinking. “This isn’t just about football — it’s about culture,” said Maria Alvarez, a Latin music historian. “Bad Bunny is one of the most influential voices in the world right now, and this performance is a moment of recognition for an entire community.”
Others warn that the backlash reflects an ongoing resistance to non-English representation in major U.S. platforms. The Super Bowl Halftime Show has long been dominated by English-speaking artists, with only a few exceptions in recent years. Critics point to a broader need for the NFL to diversify its programming and honor America’s changing demographics.
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has yet to respond directly to the petition or the criticism. Known for his unapologetic attitude and pride in his Puerto Rican roots, he has previously stated he will never compromise his identity for commercial success. “I sing in Spanish because that’s who I am,” he once said in an interview.
Fans of Bad Bunny have begun launching counter-petitions and hashtags in support of his performance. Tags like #BadBunnyBowl and #LetBenitoShine have started trending on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Many see this moment as a defining opportunity for Latin music to take center stage in American pop culture.
Meanwhile, Santana’s supporters argue that honoring a legendary Mexican-American musician would also be a culturally rich and respectful choice. “We’re not against Latin music — we just want an artist who represents everyone,” wrote one petition signer. Others note that Santana’s instrumental style would transcend language barriers altogether.
The Super Bowl Halftime Show has always been a lightning rod for cultural commentary and social movements. From Beyoncé’s politically charged 2016 performance to Shakira and Jennifer Lopez’s Latina-powered spectacle in 2020, the show often reflects more than just entertainment. It becomes a statement — one that echoes far beyond the stadium.
In past years, performers have faced similar petitions and calls for replacement, though rarely with this level of intensity. The contrast between Bad Bunny’s modern reggaeton style and Santana’s classic rock ethos has created an intergenerational clash. Still, both artists remain cultural titans in their own right.
As anticipation builds for the Super Bowl, both camps continue to rally support online. Whether or not the NFL reconsiders its decision, the conversation has already ignited global attention. In the end, the debate reveals the powerful role music plays in defining national identity and public space.
Whether viewers tune in for Santana’s legendary riffs or Bad Bunny’s genre-defying flair, one thing is clear: the Halftime Show is more than a performance — it’s a reflection of who we are and who we’re becoming. In a country shaped by many voices, the spotlight has room for more than one rhythm. The final note will be struck not just on stage, but in the hearts of millions watching.
