Maybe A Banda Tribute In Puerto Rico Wasn’t The Best Choice
Location is important. While Banda MS and Grupo Firme’s 10-year death anniversary tribute to Jenni Rivera might’ve looked “unforgettable baby,” in person, it felt different. Nobody was up on their feet and dancing to the absolutely lit homage of her hits, “No Llega el Olvido,” “Ya Lo Sé,” “Basta Ya,” and “Inolvidable.” But to some extent, it’s expected — Puerto Rico isn’t necessarily a hotbed for Jenni’s fans. Had it been in Los Angeles instead, you’d most likely see everyone on their feet, sing-cryingthe songs that made La Diva de la Banda one of the most reckoned with artists in the Regional Mexican scene.
We’ve seen this logistics challenge at other events, too. For example, the first Latine Verzuz in Los Angeles with DJ Nelson and Luny Tunes during the MLB All-Star week. LA isn’t historically your go-to reggaeton city. We do have underground parties here and there, but it’s not like other U.S. cities with a big Caribbean community like Miami or New York. Had it been there, the audience’s reaction would’ve probably been bigger and more excited.
But back to Jenni’s tribute. It felt even more awkward when her children received the Agent of Change award. When one of Rivera’s daughters mispronounced the word “hurricane” during the acceptance speech, we overheard the audience making fun of her broken Spanish. That was the cherry on top: although we’re all Latines, it’s unfortunate that prejudice exists among us.
While Banda MS and Grupo Firme’s production – from the stage to the musical arrangements – was great, a banda tribute just didn’t feel optimal in Puerto Rico. La Diva de La Banda deserved better, as far as fan reaction and location goes. But on a positive note, for those interested in Jenni’s upcoming music, during the red carpet, her children shared with Remezcla that they’re working with Banda MS’ Sergio Lizárraga and listeners will be “able to feel her, so deep in the music.”
