NPR’s El Tiny series released its newest episode today (Oct. 11). Their highly-anticipated episode features Ivy Queen performing five of her hits in a completely reimagined way. The tracks were reinvented with orchestra elements, which she describes as “out of her comfort zone.”
“Señoras y señores bienvenidos al @tinydesk @nprmusic,” Ivy Queen wrote on in Instagram post. “MI TURNO AL BATE.”
The Puerto Rican powerhouse starts with “Reza por Mi” with strong violins that echo the original song’s pulsing reggaeton beats, which we hear throughout the rest of the mini-set. After this first song, she lights a candle as a tribute to those who have guided her journey and who are no longer with us. The candle has a picture of her and Bad Bunny, which she jokingly says, “La gente tiene la patita del conejo / y yo tengo a Benito completo [People have the rabbit’s foot / and I have the whole Benito].”
Next up is “La Vida Es Así,” which she dedicates to women who are still judged to this day. The cello and double bass take over the song’s signature reggaeton bass while the piano, violin, and viola take care of the now-reimagined melody. The Puerto Rican singer and rapper also sings an orchestra version of her 2007 hit “Menor Que Yo,” narrating a part of her unapologetic life. The song is backed by piano keys and the double bass that replace the song’s signature reggaeton beat. Ivy also sings “En Que Fallamos,” carried by sharp piano chords, before wrapping up her innovative set with her timeless hit “Quiero Bailar.”
NPR’s El Tiny series will wrap up next week featuring Becky G. This year’s past performances include Rawayana, DannyLux, Alex Cuba, J Noa, and Villano Antillano.
Check out Ivy Queen’s official NPR’s El Tiny desk below.