Bad Bunny Reveals Reason Why He Refuses To Tour in the US

Summary

Global music phenomenon Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has ignited widespread discussion with his recent blunt declaration regarding his upcoming DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS World Tour: touring the continental United States is “unnecessary.” This forthright statement, made in a recent interview with Variety, underscores the Puerto Rican superstar’s unique approach to his career and his deep connection to his homeland.

The decision comes as Bad Bunny prepares for an extensive 30-night “No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí” residency in San Juan, Puerto Rico, beginning on July 11. This residency, whose title translates to “I Don’t Want to Leave Here,” is a deeply personal project for the artist, reflecting his profound emotional ties to his island. He confessed that completing his last tour was challenging because his focus was already on this deeply desired Puerto Rican chapter.

While fans in the U.S. might be disappointed, Bad Bunny was quick to point out that they have had “no shortage of opportunities to see him perform” over the past six years, citing his massive 45-date “Most Wanted Tour” in the U.S. in 2024. His DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS World Tour, set to kick off in November, will instead focus on stadium dates across South America, Australia, Asia, and Europe, intentionally bypassing the U.S. mainland.

The artist’s candidness extends to the idea of a concert film for U.S. audiences. When asked if such a film was in the works, Bad Bunny reportedly stated it was “unnecessary” as well. His label CEO, Noah Assad, elaborated, mentioning that while most shows are recorded, there’s a deliberate choice not to publish permanent concert footage, favoring live, in-the-moment experiences for attendees. However, Assad did not entirely rule out the possibility of a residency or world tour film in the future, noting “there’s no pressure on us.”

Bad Bunny’s decision, while seemingly unusual for an artist of his global stature, is being interpreted by many as a powerful statement—not just about tour logistics, but potentially about his album’s themes of Puerto Rican pride and anti-colonialism, and perhaps even the current political climate surrounding Hispanic immigrants in the U.S. Regardless of the underlying motivations, it’s a clear signal that Bad Bunny remains committed to doing things his way, prioritizing his artistic vision and his roots.