Thu Sep 12 03:35:58 UTC 2024: ## Rauw Alejandro Lights Up the VMAs with a High-Energy, Culture-Rich Performance

Puerto Rican superstar Rauw Alejandro made a memorable debut at the 40th Annual MTV Video Music Awards on Wednesday (Sept. 11) with a captivating performance that paid homage to his cultural heritage and infused the stage with electric energy.

Drawing inspiration from the vintage glamour of Broadway’s West Side Story, Alejandro, dressed in a late-60s New York-inspired outfit with a touch of pachuco style, opened his set with “Touching the Sky,” amplified with a dash of dubstep. His smooth delivery kept all eyes glued to the stage.

The show then transitioned to a group of drummers and Caribbean dancers clad in traditional white garments, their chants filling the air as Alejandro presented a more folklore-infused version of “Diluvio” from his 2023 album “Playa Saturno.” This segment culminated in a thrilling dance sequence. “Puerto Rico in the house,” he proclaimed.

Shifting the scene once again under red neon lights forming the words “Cosa Nuestra” – the title of his upcoming album – Alejandro, sporting a white T-shirt that showcased his tattoos, launched into “Déjame entrar,” his latest single with afrobeats influences. The West Side Story vibe came alive as performers danced atop large objects resembling iconic New York buildings, transforming the segment into an electrifying spectacle.

“My Latin people, this is ‘Cosa Nuestra!'” Alejandro declared.

Earlier on the red carpet, the artist shared details about his upcoming album: “Cosa Nuestra [features] roots of the island, a Caribbean mix with New York inspiration. It’s the Puerto Rican culture of old,” he said. The new material draws inspiration from the 1969 album of the same name by Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe.

“Touching the Sky” was nominated for three VMAs: Best Latin, Best Cinematography, and Best Choreography. For the full list of winners, click here.

Watch his full performance below:

[Link to performance video]

Billboard Music Week returns to Miami Beach from October 14-18, with confirmed artists including Gloria Estefan, Alejandro Sanz, and Peso Pluma, among many others. For details and tickets, visit billboardlatinmusicweek.com.

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