By Nelson Iraheta

A red velvet curtain draped over a stage, a drama filled story of love and danger, and an
audience singing along to every song. This seems like the start of a perfect evening in one of
Broadway’s renowned musicals, but in reality, it was the experience created by the Puerto Rican reggaeton star Rauw Alejandro’s “Cosa Nuestra” show in San Diego.

Alejandro, born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is part of the wave of Latin musicians taking over the international market. He’s known for his genre versatlity, singing in styles such as reggaeton, Latin R&B, urbano, trap and ballads. “Cosa Nuestra” is Rauw Alejandro’s 5th studio album, released in November of last year. While reggaeton-focused, it’s also heavily inspired by salsa and is said to be the start of a “new era” of his music. With appearances by Latin music powerhouses Romeo Santos, Bad Bunny and Latin Mafia, the album has sent reggaeton fans, including myself, raving.

When I heard he was coming to San Diego, I immediately knew I had to be there. Hundreds of fans thought the same. The tour included a dress code of 1960s inspired fashion, and fans brought their best that night. As I walked to the venue, I saw crowds of fans, majority women with men here and there, dressed in colorful and flamboyant outfits, including flowing dresses, tight numbers, and flowers in their hair.

Alejandro’s sultry performance in Viejas Arena brought Broadway to San Diego for a night to tell the love story of Rauw and his fictional love interest “Maria,” along with top-of-the-line show production and performances. The energetic singer-songwriter provided a night full of drama, dressed in suits, fedoras, and with a glamorous and old-school low-light stage to match. At one point, he was accompanied by a salsa band, that performed as he sautered through smoky scenes and heartbroken affairs.

The concert was divided into five acts with each act further unfolding the love story. From the
thrilling and modern “Punto 40,” to the homage to classic Puerto Rican salsa icon Frankie Ruiz with “Tú
con Él,” Rauw Alejandro provided an energetic and electrifying performance. Between stunning
vocals and captivating characters, the performance transported the audience to 1960s New
York. More specifically, the performance focused on the prominence of Puerto Rican culture in
New York during the time, and the entire performance honored and celebrated the island’s
musical vibrancy.

Rauw Alejandro continues to go bigger and better every time he tours, and I am excited to see
what else the iconic Latino star has to bring to the world of music. Rumors of a “Cosa Nuestra
Part 2” have been circulating, so you can bet that I will be keeping an eye out for any new
music.