Below is a table with the details of the song “Viva Puerto Rico Libre” by Ghetto Brothers:

Ghetto Brothers’ song “Viva Puerto Rico Libre” carries a deep meaning for me personally, as it connects me to my Puerto Rican heritage and serves as a reminder of the struggles and resilience of the Puerto Rican people.

Benji Melendez, the founder of Ghetto Brothers, was a proud Nuyorican, someone who felt a deep connection to both Puerto Rico and New York. The lyrics of the song emphasize the importance of never forgetting our Boricua identity, highlighting the band’s desire to remember their heritage and pass it on to future generations.

However, the meaning behind “Viva Puerto Rico Libre” goes beyond personal identity. The Ghetto Brothers were deeply engaged in politics, and this song stands as an example of their involvement with the Puerto Rican independence movement. While less explicitly political compared to some of their other works, the song still calls for the liberation of Puerto Rico.

The desire for Puerto Rico’s freedom was rooted in the fight against imperialism and capitalism. The Ghetto Brothers saw the North American Yanqui as oppressors who were attempting to strip Puerto Ricans of their identity and assimilate them into American culture. They believed in the power of rising up and liberating their country from these oppressive forces.

Personally, this song resonates with me because it speaks to the ongoing struggles faced by Puerto Rico. It serves as a reminder that our island, with its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and resilient people, is suffering. Puerto Rico has faced numerous challenges, from economic hardships to natural disasters, and yet its spirit remains unbroken.

The lyrics “Despierta boricua, despierte lo tuyo” (Awaken, Puerto Rican, awaken yours) capture the call for unity and mobilization. It is a reminder that we must come together as Puertorriqueños, whether on the island or in the diaspora, to fight for our rights, preserve our culture, and work towards a better future for Puerto Rico.

Having grown up in a Puerto Rican household, I have always been immersed in the sounds of salsa, merengue, and other genres that define our rich musical heritage. “Viva Puerto Rico Libre” is a celebration of that musical tradition, with lyrics expressing a deep love for Puerto Rican music and culture.

Listening to this song takes me back to family gatherings where we would come together, cook delicious Puerto Rican dishes like arroz con habichuelas, and dance to the rhythm of our music. It reminds me of the passion and pride with which my grandparents and parents taught me about our Puerto Rican roots.

Ultimately, “Viva Puerto Rico Libre” serves as a powerful anthem, both for Puerto Ricans and for those who stand in solidarity with our cause. It calls for the freedom and liberation of Puerto Rico from the chains of oppression, while also celebrating the beauty and resilience of our island and its people.

As I listen to the song today, it fills me with hope and determination, reinforcing my commitment to fight for a brighter future for Puerto Rico. I am grateful for artists like Ghetto Brothers who use their platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and inspire change.

Sources:

• Ayala, César J., and Rafael Bernabe. Puerto Rico in the American Century: A History Since 1898. The University of North Carolina Press, 2007.
• Mlynar, Phillip. “A Bronx Tale: The Story of the Ghetto Brothers,” Red Bull Music Academy, November 20, 2012.
• Nicholson, Shan, dir. Rubble Kings. Saboteur Digital, 2015.

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